Finding My Queer Joy in Folsom: A Journey of Authenticity
Have you ever felt both invisible and too visible at the same time? That was me three years ago when I first moved to Folsom, California—a place known more for its prison than its Pride celebrations.
My Folsom Story
Walking along Sutter Street for the first time, I wondered if I was the only queer person in this historic Gold Rush town. Between the antique shops and family restaurants, I felt like a rainbow in a sepia photograph. Yet something about the rolling hills and proximity to Sacramento gave me hope that community wasn't far away.
The Struggle Is Real
Finding your people as a queer person in smaller communities comes with unique challenges:
- Dating apps show the same 10 profiles on repeat
- Coffee shops don't host queer nights
- That moment when you're never quite sure if someone is family or just really supportive
- Explaining your pronouns. Again. And again.
Creating Space Where None Exists
What changed everything was stopping waiting for community and starting to build it instead. I began hosting small gatherings at Lake Natoma, creating a Discord server for local LGBTQ+ folks, and connecting with the surprisingly active queer community just minutes away in Sacramento.
The most powerful thing I did? Simply being visibly, unapologetically myself. It's amazing how many people come out of the woodwork when they see someone else brave enough to exist loudly.
You Are Not Alone
That feeling of isolation isn't reality—it's just a temporary state. Even here in Folsom, there are people like you seeking connection, understanding, and belonging.
What's your experience being queer in a smaller community? Share your story below or DM me if you're local and looking to connect with our growing queer family here in Folsom!