21-year-old Blair Wilson was walking down the street in his hometown of Neilston, East Renfrewshire, Scotland, when a man shouted ‘Fagg*t!’ at him from across the road. According to Barrhead News, when Wilson approached the man to confront him for the slur, the man attacked Wilson leaving a cut across his nose and blood running down his face. Wilson fought his way out and managed to get away from the attacker.
Immediately after, he had the instincts to do something unprecedented. He took a selfie with a grin from ear to ear—blood dripping down his face and all. He posted the photo on Facebook, calling out the coward who left him battered.
Authorities are investigating the altercation.
Wilson, who shared that he had never experienced any type of homophobic physical violence, said:
I thought, clearly, this person doesn’t realise how close Neilston is and I just wanted to post something so that, when he sobered up, he might see how much love and support I have.
I knew, as soon as it happened, that I could either keep quiet and feel embarrassed about it or I could shame him over Facebook. As soon as I posted it, even though my nose was still bleeding, I didn’t care.
It’s amazing. I’ve heard from so many people I haven’t spoken to in ages and people I don’t even know telling me I’m an inspiration and stuff. It’s made me feel so good about myself.
I did use some choice words in the post, but the message I wanted to get across is you need to stick up for yourself. Maybe don’t go getting yourself hurt, but show them you have friends, you are loved.
I think some people think because you are a different sexuality from them you have no friends and everyone is in the same mindset of them, when the reality is they’re the minority.
You can prove to them you’re much more loved than they will ever be if they live a life of hate.
In a world where we hear about these types of incidents on a daily basis, it’s quite heart-warming to see that someone who has endured such an act can remain positive and be a beacon of hope for others. We don’t always see attacks like these ending well, but if nothing else this incident has served as inspiration for others who may have experienced something similar.
Sending big hugs your way, Blair!
h/t: Barrhead News
Hop he recovers soon nd I
Hop he recovers soon nd I hope the attackers get punished for their vile attack.