Finding My Rainbow in the Heartland: Being Queer in Bellevue
Ever wonder what it's like being the only one waving a pride flag in a sea of cornfields? That was me, three years ago, when I moved to Bellevue, Nebraska for work.
My Bellevue Beginning
I still remember driving down Fort Crook Road, wondering if I'd made a terrible mistake. The military presence from Offutt Air Force Base was everywhere, and I worried my rainbow bumper sticker might make me an outsider. Those first weeks, I'd drive 30 minutes to Omaha just to feel connected to queer spaces.
When Cornfields Meet Queerness
The struggles were real:
- Dating apps showed matches 50+ miles away
- Coming out repeatedly at work functions
- Explaining to my elderly neighbor that my "roommate" was actually my partner
- Finding a hairstylist who wouldn't ask about my "husband"
Cultivating Queer Joy in Unexpected Places
Eventually, I discovered that queer community exists everywhere—even here! I started small:
- Connected with the Heartland Pride organizers
- Joined the Bellevue Public Library's inclusive book club
- Found supportive faith communities at Thanksgiving Lutheran
- Started a monthly potluck for LGBTQ+ folks and allies
Most importantly, I stopped waiting for Bellevue to become something it wasn't and started appreciating what it could be.
Remember, you're not alone here. Whether you're military-connected, a college student, or someone who calls this corner of Nebraska home, your queerness belongs in this landscape too.
What's your Bellevue story? Share below how you've found or created community in unexpected places.