Ever Wonder What It's Like Being the Only Rainbow in a Sea of Beige Suburbs?
That was literally me three years ago when I moved to Orland Park. Coming from Chicago's Boystown to the southwest suburbs was... an adjustment. Picture this: me, walking into Orland Square Mall with my "Love Wins" tote, getting those classic suburban stares.
My Queer Journey in Orland Park
I remember my first week here, desperately googling "LGBTQ+ near me" and finding exactly zero results. The closest gay bar was a 30-minute drive, and the only Pride celebration was a small table at the farmers market (bless that one ally who organized it).
The Invisible Tightrope We Walk
- Having to "read the room" before mentioning your partner
- The endless "Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?" questions from well-meaning neighbors
- Finding yourself suddenly being the "gay expert" for everyone's questions
- That weird silence when you correct someone's assumptions
Finding Your People in Unlikely Places
Here's what I've learned: we're actually everywhere in Orland Park, just not always visible. The queer community exists in pockets you wouldn't expect.
Start with the library's book club (seriously, they read some surprisingly inclusive titles), check out the community college's student groups, and don't underestimate local coffee shops as gathering spots.
You Are Not an Island
On days when it feels like you're alone in this suburban landscape, remember that feeling isolated doesn't mean you actually are. We're building something beautiful here, between the strip malls and cul-de-sacs.
What's your Orland Park queer experience? Has it been similar or completely different? Our stories create the map others will follow.