Is Finding Your Place as a Queer Person in a Small City Possible?
I remember the first time I walked through Bethlehem's historic district, steel stacks looming in the distance, wondering if I'd ever truly belong here. The Christmas lights twinkled along Main Street, but I felt invisible—a queer person in what seemed like a traditional Pennsylvania town.
My Bethlehem Journey
Three years ago, I moved from Philly to Bethlehem for a job at the community college. I was terrified I'd have to drive to Allentown or even back to Philly anytime I wanted to be around other LGBTQ+ folks. I was so wrong. Slowly, I discovered pockets of queer joy—from the pride flags in Southside windows to the monthly mixers at the bookstore on 3rd Street.
The Struggle Is Real
Yet it hasn't always been easy:
- Dating apps show the same 10 people when you're queer in a smaller city
- Finding affirming healthcare providers takes detective work
- Explaining your pronouns... repeatedly
- Wondering if that coffee shop is actually safe or just rainbow capitalism
Finding Your People
What's worked for me is embracing the unexpected. The Bradbury-Sullivan Center in Allentown has become my second home. The Lehigh Valley Pride committee welcomed me instantly. And sometimes, community looks like the regular table of queer folks at the Bookshop Speakeasy who noticed me dining alone and pulled up a chair.
You're not alone here in the Christmas City, I promise. Our queer community might be smaller, but we're mighty and we're waiting to meet you.
Drop a comment sharing your favorite queer-friendly space in the Valley—let's build our resource list together!