Finding My Rainbow in the Smoky Mountain Shadows
Have you ever felt like you're the only one of your kind in a small town? That was me—a queer soul trying to bloom in Kingsport, Tennessee, where church steeples outnumber pride flags about a thousand to one.
My Kingsport Story
I still remember that first summer after moving back home, sitting alone at Riverfront Park watching families picnic while I scrolled through dating apps with zero matches within 50 miles. The Bays Mountain trails became my thinking spot, where I'd hike for hours wondering if I'd have to choose between authenticity and belonging in this corner of Appalachia.
The Small-Town Queer Struggle
Many of us face similar challenges here:
- The constant coming out—to new coworkers, to the mechanic, to your parents' friends at Food City
- Dating pools so small they're practically puddles
- Finding safe spaces when "gay-friendly" isn't advertised on storefronts
- Balancing family traditions with your authentic self during holidays
Creating Your Own Light
What saved me wasn't leaving—it was building community right here. I started a monthly meetup at Sleepy Owl Brewery that grew from 3 people to 30. I discovered allies at the Model City Bookshop and at TriPride events. Sometimes creating the space you need means becoming its architect.
Remember, your queerness isn't diminished by geography. Your identity is valid whether you're in Kingsport or San Francisco. The courage it takes to live authentically here creates ripples that change our community, one conversation at a time.
How are you finding or creating queer community in your corner of Appalachia? Share below—your story might be the lifeline someone else needs today.