Photography company refused to take photos based on religious beliefs
Hard to believe but a photograph company refused to take wedding pictures of this cute gay couple based on “religious beliefs”.
Mike Cerantola and hubby to be Victor Rivas reached out to a local photography company, Premier Productions, to inquire about snapping pictures for their wedding in November.
Things went south when the photographer asked if the photo shoot would include an hour's worth of pictures at the bride's or at the groom's.
“I mentioned that there’s only going to be one house since we already live with each other and I said there is no bride,” Cerantola told Montreal News.
“We’re two guys.”
Soon later, the photography company responded with an unsettling email:
“I regret that I cannot take this wedding because it is at odds with my personal religious beliefs,” read the electronic message.
Mr. Cerantola took to Facebook and said: “Anyone who knows me knows I’m relatively a nice person and would never be malicious….but being refused by a photographer to shoot my wedding because I’m gay hurt me a little. No sweat off my back.. Gonna look for more, but raising awareness for others who are in the same Gay boat.”
Related: Christian straight couple files lawsuit to deny LGBT people wedding services
He also wrote: “Be aware, this company will turn you down if you are homosexual.”
Canadian law is clear and indicates that a company cannot discriminate against individuals based on sexual orientation.
This is particularly the case for commercial businesses that are available to the public.
Premiere Productions has not responded to requests for comment from Gay Pop Buzz.
Obviously the couple won't be going with Premiere Productions for their wedding pictures. But they do appear to have garnered a massive amount of support.
So much so that one photographer, Mr. Stuart Seemungal, has offered to take the pictures at his own expense.
“I regret that I cannot take this wedding because it is at odds with my personal religious beliefs”
“Just saw your story,” he shared. “I’ll come to Montreal from Ottawa at my expense and photograph your wedding for free if you can’t find anyone to do it.”
Many others have stepped up to offer their services, including one gentleman who said he would provide a free photobooth.
Friends of the couple, family members and strangers have also made recommendations for other gay-friendly photography professionals they could use.
Mr. Rivas shared: “Mike and I are touched beyond belief at the humanity you all have shown us. And I would like to personally thank you for all your candor and helpful information.
“Truly, it’s heart-warming. I have no words for the kindness you’ve all expressed all I can say is a heartfelt THANK YOU!!”
The couple is still contemplating which photographer to use.
Here at the blog, we wish both men the best and know that their wedding and marriage will be amazing!
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