Living in Rural America with Pride
Photo credit: Billings Gazette. Pictured: Billings Pride Parade 2018
As we enter the New Year, many of us start our resolutions and intentions for the year on January 1st. Some of us have already begun to think about what this year means as an election year or simply wonder what may happen as it seems the chaos continues to ensue. So, it leaves some of us feeling stuck in a place of uncertainty.
One group that has been haunted by current events is the LGBTQIA+ community. Now, this post is not to ensue fear or worry. It is also not an opinion piece. This blog is being written to provide insight into what allies can do in support as well as validate the members of this community who may feel isolated and unsure if they should be feeling this way. It is important to point out that although this blog will discuss the disadvantages of living in rural America as openly LGBTQIA+, the barriers faced are the same as those in urban areas. This blog is simply to shine light on an experience that many Montanans may be facing right now.
So, what are these barriers for rural queer folks? Well, as pointed out above, they are the same as any other barrier for this group: lack of access to affirming health care, mental health professionals overlooking queer identity, housing insecurity, lack of affordable housing, and everyday experiences of discrimination.
What makes this different in rural areas? Well, if the LGBTQIA+ community finds these things difficult to access in a dense well populated area, this challenge only becomes more desolate when you are living in a place that may not even have a hospital. If there is a lack of affordable housing in an area of millions, then this struggle increases tenfold in an area with a population of only 1,000. Beyond this, in rural areas there is an overall lack of resources and community as well. In urban areas, there are hundreds of “like” people who can come together. In rural America, finding others and being seen can pose a special challenge.
Although this divide between rural and urban America is an important one to be aware of, the main idea from this post is that it's okay to feel frustrated. If you are a part of the community or are an ally, don't overlook the barriers. Don't question your anger or fear, accept it and share that with your identified community. If that means taking a mental health day to remind yourself you belong, do it. If that means taking space from those in your family who can't say anything nice, take the space. Your feelings are valid and although at times it feels you are alone, know you are not. Many people are moving to rural areas for a variety of reasons, so be seen. Take up your space and use your voice. And if you feel you need a safe space to talk to, reach out for help because no one deserves to feel alone.
If you or someone you know is queer and living in Montana check out the sites below to find your nearest community or find places that identify as safe and open to all: