Until We Get Old

Horn Chheon and Pov John(Kampong Thom)

Photos by: Prum Ero

Story by: Tuy Raksmey

Edit by: Ly Pisey

“Our family is decent like other families too. We understand and take care each other no matter what.”

Grandmother Chheon: My husband and I have been living together for 39 years. At first, my parents were angry with me. But because of our love, understanding, caring, persistence and showing that we are happy together, we won their hearts. They recognized and accepted our love as a true determination. They also provided us financial support to build a stronger family. I still remember the wish from my parents to love and care each other infinitely, and that what we do.

We also raised a grandchild since he was a baby. He is now working in Phnom Penh. He visits me on weekends but sometimes once in every few months.

Grandfather John:Happiness comes from two of us. That is love, guidance and respect for each other. Our family is no different from other families.

Grandmother Chheon: Nowadays more LGBTs are recognized and protected by laws but LGBT couples cannot register marriage certificate like straight couples yet. My wish is that both LGBT and straight couples can register marriage certificate because we are all human. Having laws to recognize our family and joint property can protect us from anxiety or harassment and hatred from others.

Grandfather John:People in the village respect me as an elder person. There is no problem. However, there is a small group of people who shows contempt, looks down, mocks, harasses and says bad words such as there is nothing good with a woman who loves another woman because no law recognizes them. These kinds of actions happen because they don’t like LGBT people. Therefore, I want LGBT families to be protected by law and to no longer subject to discrimination.