Finding My Authentic Self in Suburban Illinois
Have you ever felt like you're living two separate lives? That was me—working at the Addison shopping mall by day while secretly longing to express my true self in a place that didn't always understand.
My Addison Story
When I moved to Addison three years ago, I was immediately struck by its quiet streets and family-focused community. The beautiful green spaces like Community Park became my thinking spots, places where I could breathe and contemplate coming out. That small coffee shop on Lake Street became my sanctuary—the barista with the rainbow pin silently acknowledging me long before I had the courage to acknowledge myself.
The Struggle Is Real
Being queer in smaller suburban communities comes with unique challenges:
- Limited visible queer spaces compared to Chicago proper
- Dating pools that sometimes feel impossibly small
- The exhausting "coming out" process with each new acquaintance
- Navigating family events where your identity becomes the unspoken elephant
Finding Your People
Here's what helped me build community:
- The Addison LGBTQ+ Meetup group that gathers monthly at the library
- Connecting with queer-friendly businesses (look for those subtle pride flags)
- Building relationships in neighboring Elmhurst and Villa Park, expanding my circle
- Creating digital connections before in-person ones
Remember, your journey doesn't need to mirror anyone else's. Your timeline for coming out, finding community, or expressing yourself is uniquely yours.
Share your Addison experiences below! How have you carved out space for your authentic self in our community?