Ever Felt Like the Only Rainbow in Sterling Heights?
I still remember driving down Hall Road, past those golden towers locals call the "Golden Buttocks," wondering if I was truly the only queer person in all of Sterling Heights. Spoiler alert: I wasn't!
Finding My Queer Oasis in Macomb County
Three years ago, I moved here for a job at the tech park. My apartment overlooked Dodge Park, beautiful but initially lonely. I'd walk those trails on weekends, spotting families and couples, but no visible queer community. I started wearing my small pride pin just hoping someone might notice and say hello.
When Being "The Only One" Gets Exhausting
Let's be real about the struggles:
- Dating apps showing matches 30+ miles away in Ferndale or Royal Oak
- Explaining pronouns repeatedly at workplace gatherings
- The subtle calculation before mentioning your partner in casual conversation
- Finding yourself the "educational resource" on all things LGBTQ+
Creating Belonging Where You Are
I started small: a meetup at Lakeside Mall's food court that first attracted just four people. Now? We're twenty-strong gathering monthly at local coffee shops. Here's what worked:
- Connect with the Detroit metro LGBTQ+ groups that occasionally host suburban events
- Start micro-gatherings in public, safe spaces
- Check community boards at libraries and Sterling Heights Community Center
- Befriend allies who can introduce you to other queer folks
You're not actually alone here. Behind those suburban facades are others like us, also looking for connection. We exist in every corner of Sterling Heights—from the Clinton River Trail to the cultural plazas.
What's your Sterling Heights experience? Drop a comment—maybe we've crossed paths without knowing it!