When the "First Comes Love" project began in March of 2009, Proposition 8 had just outlawed same-sex marriages in California and the Defense of Marriage Act still barred the federal government from recognizing gay and lesbian marriages. Five years later, that section of DOMA has been declared unconstitutional and Proposition 8 has been defeated — for good.
Still, there is a long way to go before the country sees full marriage equality. A deep misunderstanding of LGBT relationships remains. So the "First Comes Love" project captures the stories of real couples who want to help educate those who aren't LGBT, while celebrating those of us who are.
The goal of "First Comes Love" is to provide a glimpse into the “everyday” lives of couples who have been in their relationships for 10, 20, 30, 40, and even 50 years. B. Proud photographed the couples and presents their portraits in a straightforward black and white.
The First Comes Love book is available on Sept. 26. The book launch coincides with the Philadelphia exhibition of the photos that can be viewed at Hamilton and Aaronson Galleries.
Kris & Sandy, 14 years
Sinjoyla & Angelisa, 17 years
Lisa & Drew, 16 years
Megan & Laura, 30 years
Annise & Kathy, 23 years
Byllye & Ngina, 25 years
Edrie & Jan, 55 years
Sandra & Anita, 23 years
Deb & Cheryl, 17 years
Del & Harriet, 45 years
Edie & Thea, 44 years
Cindy Ord/Getty Images
