Finding My Rainbow in Suburban Illinois
Have you ever felt like you're the only queer person in a 10-mile radius? That was me when I first moved to Plainfield, Illinois, staring out at rows of nearly identical houses and wondering where I would possibly find my people.
My Plainfield Journey
Three years ago, I traded Chicago's Boystown for Plainfield's tree-lined streets. The first month was lonely. I'd catch myself scanning grocery store aisles for pride pins or rainbow accessories—anything that might signal a kindred spirit. I remember sitting alone at Café 59, watching families and straight couples, feeling like I was watching life through a window.
The Invisible Struggle
Let's be real about suburban queer life:
- Dating apps show the same 12 people within a 25-mile radius
- The "am I dressed too gay for this PTA meeting?" anxiety
- That moment when someone assumes your "roommate" is just a roommate
- The exhausting drive to Chicago every time you want queer community
Creating Space Where There Isn't One
Eventually, I stopped waiting for Plainfield to show me its queer side and started creating it instead:
- I started a monthly meetup at Sovereign that grew from 3 to 23 people
- Found the unofficial queer-friendly spots (shoutout to River Hawk Brewing!)
- Connected with the Plainfield PFLAG chapter
- Started a tiny book club that reads exclusively queer authors
Sometimes building community means being brave enough to be visible first.
You Are Not Alone Here
On days when Plainfield feels too straight, too quiet, too conventional—remember there are others of us tucked into these neighborhoods, raising families, walking dogs, and looking for connection just like you.
Where are my suburban queers at? Drop your Plainfield experiences below or DM me if you're looking to join our next gathering. You belong here too. ❤️