Finding Myself in the Bible Belt: A Queer Journey in Concord
Have you ever felt like you're both invisible and too visible at the same time? That's how I felt when I first moved to Concord, North Carolina three years ago—a place where church steeples outnumber pride flags by about a thousand to one.
My Concord Story
I still remember that first trip to downtown Concord, walking past the historic courthouse, wondering if I should tone down my "gay vibes" or embrace them fully. I chose the latter and found myself getting curious stares at Union Street Bistro while having brunch. But here's the plot twist: the server, noticing my rainbow bracelet, discreetly showed me her matching one. Sometimes family finds you in unexpected places.
When Being Yourself Feels Revolutionary
The challenges here are real:
- Dating apps show profiles "99+ miles away"
- Well-meaning neighbors who keep mentioning their single nephew (never their niece)
- Finding safe spaces to just exist authentically
- The constant mental calculation of when to come out and when to let assumptions slide
Carving Out Space in Unexpected Places
What's helped me thrive:
- The monthly meetups at Percantile & Creamery (the barista there is family too!)
- Finding the one PFLAG chapter within driving distance
- Creating digital connections before physical ones
- Being the representation I wanted to see
Remember, your existence here isn't just valid—it's necessary. Each of us living authentically creates space for someone else to do the same.
How are you creating community where you are? Share your story below—your words might be exactly what someone else needs to read today. 💜