Finding My Rainbow in Round Rock: A Queer Journey in Texas
Have you ever felt like you're simultaneously invisible and too visible? That's how I felt when I first moved to Round Rock three years ago—a queer transplant in what I assumed would be a traditional Texas suburb.
My Round Rock Reality Check
I remember walking through Downtown Round Rock for the first time, holding my breath instead of my partner's hand. The smell of BBQ wafting from Salt Lick, families enjoying ice cream at Rockin' Rolls—picture-perfect Texas scenes that I wasn't sure included me. Then at Brushy Creek Trail, an older woman noticed my pride pin and whispered, "My grandson just came out. Thank you for being visible here." That moment changed everything.
The Quiet Struggle
Finding community here comes with unique challenges:
- Dating apps show profiles "50+ miles away" far too often
- Well-meaning neighbors who invite you to church after learning you're queer
- The exhaustion of being the "educational moment" for curious strangers
- That constant calculation of safety versus authenticity in everyday spaces
Blooming Where We're Planted
But here's what I've learned about thriving here:
- The Round Rock Public Library hosts inclusive events regularly
- Joining recreational sports leagues revealed surprising allies and fellow queer folks
- Creating small gatherings at places like Star Coffee can slowly build community
- Being gently, persistently visible makes space for others
You're not alone in navigating this complex landscape of belonging. Every time I shop at HEB or grab breakfast tacos at Veracruz All Natural, I remind myself that we're writing a new story about what it means to be queer in suburban Texas.
What's your Round Rock experience been like? Share below, or message me to join our monthly meetup. Your story matters here too.