Finding My Rainbow in Eastern Carolina: A Queer Journey
Have you ever felt like the only splash of color in a black and white film? That was me three years ago when I first moved to Greenville, NC—a queer transplant wondering if I'd ever find my people in this college town.
My Greenville Story
I still remember driving down 10th Street, past ECU's campus, wondering where I'd find community. Between the sweet tea and Southern hospitality, I discovered pockets of queer joy hiding in plain sight—from the welcoming staff at Blackbeard Coffee to the surprisingly vibrant drag nights at local venues.
When It Gets Tough
Let's be honest about the challenges:
- Dating apps where the same 12 profiles keep recycling
- The quiet coming-out conversations at Sup Dogs over and over
- Finding safe spaces when sometimes it feels like you're the one creating them
- That moment of hesitation before holding hands downtown
Finding Your People
What's helped me thrive here:
- Connect with ECU's LGBTQ+ student groups (they welcome community members!)
- Volunteer at Pride events—Greenville's may be small but it's mighty
- Frequent the businesses with Pride flags year-round, not just June
- Join online groups specific to Eastern NC queer folks
Remember, your queerness isn't diminished by geography. Sometimes being visible in smaller places is its own kind of revolution.
Who else is navigating queer life in Eastern Carolina? Share your hidden gems and how you've created community here!