Finding My Queer Joy in Lakewood: A Journey of Rainbows Amid the Mountains
Have you ever felt like you're the only queer person in your neighborhood, even when you logically know that can't be true? That was me three years ago when I first moved to Lakewood, Colorado.
My Lakewood Story
The mountains were breathtaking, but I was honestly more concerned about finding my people. I remember walking around Belmar Park, wearing my tiny rainbow pin, hoping someone might notice and smile. Instead, I found community in the most unexpected place—a small bookstore near Casa Bonita where the owner, a lesbian in her 60s, hosted monthly queer poetry nights.
When Being Visible Feels Hard
Let's talk about the real struggles of queer life in suburban spaces:
- Dating apps that keep showing you the same 15 people within a 30-mile radius
- Well-meaning neighbors who ask if your "roommate" is coming to the block party
- Finding queer-friendly healthcare without driving all the way to Denver
- The isolation that comes from not seeing yourself represented in everyday spaces
Creating Your Queer Oasis
Here's what helped me build my queer community in Lakewood:
- Check out Lakewood Cultural Center's LGBTQ+ events (they exist!)
- Join the "Queer Colorado Outdoors" group that hikes at Green Mountain
- Visit Leela European Cafe—it's not explicitly queer but definitely queer-friendly
- Make the first move in friendship; that person wearing the subtle pride bracelet might be looking for community too
Remember, your queer existence in suburban spaces is revolutionary in itself. Every time you live authentically, you're creating space for others to do the same.
What's your experience being queer in Lakewood? Share below—I promise I read every comment, and our stories help others feel less alone. 💜