When You're the Only Rainbow in a Small Town Sky
Have you ever felt like you're the only queer person within a 50-mile radius? That's how I felt when I first moved to Romeoville, Illinois, three years ago.
Finding My Place in Romeoville
I remember walking through the Heritage Corridor for the first time, watching families with their kids, wondering if there was anyone like me here. The first month was lonely - I'd drive 40 minutes to Chicago just to feel seen. Then one day at the local coffee shop near Lewis University, the barista complimented my pride pin, and whispered, "We have a small group that meets at the library."
The Invisible Struggles
Being queer in a smaller suburb comes with unique challenges:
- Dating apps that show the nearest match is 30+ miles away
- Well-meaning neighbors who keep asking if you've "met a nice boy/girl yet"
- Finding safe spaces to be your authentic self
- The exhaustion of coming out again and again to new people
Creating Your Own Community
What I've learned is that we have to become the community we wish to find:
- Start small - even a group chat of 3 queer folks can become a lifeline
- Check out Romeoville's library for their monthly inclusive book club
- Don't underestimate allies - they've often been my bridge to other queer people
- Be visible in ways that feel safe for you
Remember, you aren't truly alone. We're just harder to find in places like Romeoville, but we're here, creating little pockets of belonging wherever we go.
What's your experience being queer in a smaller community? Share below - your story might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today. 💖