EBONY celebrates the month of love with inspiring stories of couples from across the nation. Share in the moments and advice that keep their love alive and bright.
E!'s TV series Mathis Family Matters’ Greg Mathis, Jr. (the son of the beloved Judge Mathis) and his now fiancé, Elliott Cooper, share how great communication and a solid foundation keep them grounded in love.
According to the engaged couple, Black love is free and strong. It’s a love that is special and understands sacrifice. These have been essential foundational pillars for the pair in their relationship. Together, they have been able to overcome judgment, guilt and stigmas that plague the LGBTQ+ community, especially for Black men. Although the work is never complete, Mathis, Jr., and Cooper have not only made a vow to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community but are also moving closer to making a committed vow to each other.
Mathis Jr. says, “When Elliott and I came out to the world last year on E!/Peacock’s series Mathis Family Matters, we opened up our entire relationship to reality TV viewers. Before filming, he and I were proactive and discussed which parts of ourselves and our relationship we wanted to keep sacred. We also leaned on each other quite a bit for support because sharing your life with the world can be tough!"
“We’ve both been too busy with work and enjoying life to let the outside noise in too much. I have my consulting work and career as an engineer, and Greg is busy with his auditions and entertainment projects. I think when you’re locked into your purpose and are aware of your mission, the outside noise often takes care of itself," shares Cooper.
Their advice for other couples overcoming similar issues:
Mathis Jr. says, “Always give yourself and your relationship grace. None of us will ever be perfect, and we all deserve the ability to grow and evolve without so much judgment. Also, make sure to have a mental health regimen in place so you can bring the healthiest version of yourself to life and your relationship.”
“Continue to look within because that’s always what matters most. There isn’t a perfect model of what a relationship is or what it should look like, as long as it works for you and your partner,” advises Cooper.
