Ever Feel Like the Only Rainbow in the Cornfield?
I remember my first winter in Mishawaka, standing outside Battell Park as snowflakes dusted my rainbow beanie. A stranger smiled and whispered, "Nice hat—I like knowing I'm not alone here." That thirty-second interaction sustained me for weeks.
Finding Your Place in the Middle of Everywhere
Mishawaka might not scream "queer haven" like bigger cities, but our community exists in beautiful pockets throughout the River Walk, university spaces, and yes, even at the mall.
- The coffee shop near the library has become our unofficial gathering spot
- First Fridays downtown sometimes feature queer artists (if you know where to look)
- South Bend's proximity gives us access to their more established LGBTQ+ groups
When Even Breathing Feels Political
The hardest part isn't necessarily outright hostility—it's the exhaustion of constantly calculating: Is this space safe? Will holding hands here cause a scene? The emotional mathematics of visibility wears on the soul.
I've found that building micro-communities saves sanity. Start with just one authentic connection, then another. My friendship with the barista who draws pride flags in latte foam led to meeting her friends, which led to game nights where I could finally exhale fully.
You Are Not a Visitor Here
You belong in Indiana as much as anyone. Our presence makes Mishawaka richer, more compassionate, and more interesting. The queer joy you create here matters.
What spaces have you carved out for yourself in our river city? Share below—your insight might be the lighthouse someone else needs to find shore.