Finding My Rainbow in Orange & Blue: A Queer Journey Through Auburn
Have you ever felt like a sunflower trying to bloom in the shade? That was me—a queer soul navigating life in the heart of Alabama, where football reigns supreme and tradition runs as deep as the roots of Toomer's Oaks.
My Auburn Story
When I first arrived on campus, I carried my identity like a secret book tucked inside my backpack. The humid August air clung to my skin as I wandered past Samford Hall, wondering if I'd ever find my people in this place where "War Eagle" echoed louder than any pride chant I'd ever heard. But Auburn surprised me. Behind the orange and blue facade, I discovered pockets of queer joy—from cozy gatherings at Mama Mocha's to the unexpected allies in my biology study group.
The Southern Queer Struggle Is Real
Let's be honest about the challenges we face here:
- Dating apps that seem to span three counties with the same 12 faces
- The careful pronoun dance in professional settings
- Finding haircuts that express your identity without becoming a town conversation
- The exhausting "coming out" conversation with each new friend or coworker
Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Here's what I've learned about creating queer joy in Auburn:
- Build your chosen family intentionally—quality over quantity
- Embrace the unexpected allies (that conservative-looking professor might surprise you)
- Find your spaces: Pride on The Plains events, SPECTRUM meetings, or weekend trips to Atlanta
- Be the representation you needed when you first arrived
Remember, your existence here isn't just valid—it's essential to making Auburn truly the "loveliest village on the plains" for everyone.
What's your Auburn queer experience? Share below—your story might be the lifeline someone else needs today. This community grows stronger with every voice.