Finding My Rainbow: Queer Life in Rockford's Hidden Corners
Have you ever felt like the only rainbow flag in a sea of beige? That was me, three years ago, walking down State Street wondering if I was the only queer person in Rockford who didn't have it all figured out.
My Rockford Story
I moved here for a job at the hospital, knowing exactly zero people and armed only with my ancient Subaru and a determination to be authentically me. Those first few months? Brutal. The midwestern politeness was real, but finding my people seemed impossible. I'd wander through Sinnissippi Gardens alone, watching couples and friend groups, wondering where my community was hiding.
The Invisible Tightrope
- Dating apps showed the same 15 profiles within a 50-mile radius
- The only gay bar closed down shortly after I arrived
- Well-meaning coworkers kept trying to set me up with their "other gay friend"
- Finding casual friendships was easy; finding deep connections felt impossible
Creating Space When None Exists
What changed everything was stopping my search and starting to build. I began hosting monthly potlucks advertised through local Facebook groups. Our first meeting had three people. Now? We're twenty-strong and growing. The Rockford queer community wasn't missing—it was scattered, waiting for connection.
Your loneliness isn't a reflection of your worthiness—it's just the growing pain of finding your place. We're here in Rockford, in every neighborhood, workplace and coffee shop. Sometimes we're just waiting for someone brave enough to reach out first.
What's your Rockford queer experience been like? Share below or message me about joining our next gathering. Your people are here—I promise.