Why Does Coming Out Still Feel So Complicated in 2023?
I remember the first time I walked down Wickenden Street holding my partner's hand—heart pounding like I was doing something revolutionary. The truth? In many ways, I was.
Finding Myself in East Providence
When I moved to East Providence three years ago, I was drawn to Rhode Island's reputation for LGBTQ+ inclusivity. I found an apartment near the water, discovered that perfect coffee shop where the barista never bats an eye when I mention my girlfriend, and slowly carved out my queer existence in this historic waterfront city.
But belonging didn't happen overnight. There were the awkward conversations with my elderly Portuguese neighbor, the hesitation before joining the local community garden, the calculation of when to be authentic versus when to be cautious.
The Invisible Tightrope Walk
- Finding other queer folks outside dating apps
- Building community when you work from home
- Navigating spaces that aren't explicitly queer-friendly
- That constant energy drain from "reading the room"
It's 2023, and sometimes I still find myself doing the mental math before mentioning my partner in conversation with new people—why is that still our reality?
Creating Your Queer Oasis
Start small. The Providence LGBTQ+ meetup group changed everything for me. Volunteer with Youth Pride RI. Check out the events at the East Providence Public Library—they're more progressive than you might expect!
Remember that authenticity doesn't have to mean disclosure in every situation. Your safety matters more than someone else's education.
Your queer joy is revolutionary, friends. Even here in liberal New England, every time we live openly, we're reshaping what's possible for someone watching silently.
Has anyone else found unexpected allies or queer community in surprising East Providence spaces? Share below—your story might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today. 💙