Rural GLBTQ Youth

This feature was compiled by Benny, a former YouthResource peer educator

San Francisco. New York City. Known, perhaps, as the queer hubs of America. Truth is, though, lots of queer folks don't live in these big cities. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth grow up and live in smaller towns and out in the country... just like the majority of Americans. And since these places don't have the resources or support groups that larger areas, the issues we face growing up queer in rural areas are quite different.

This feature shares some resources and experiences queer youth living in rural areas face. Check out the stories people shared with us about being queer and living in a rural area. Some are positive, some are negative: all together they begin to give a picture of what it's like to be young and queer in the country.

Benny's Story
"There were a few brave souls that were openly gay. Everyone in town knew they were gay, but what would everyone say if they knew I was friends with them or talked to them? They would know for sure I was gay, and I was SO not ready for that!"

Chase's Story
And in a high school with less than 300 people in it, it was all over the school in less than an hour. To make a long story short, I lost some friends, my conservative grandmother found out and raised hell, and I was very self-conscious about myself for about the ensuing three years."

David's Story
"The people that liked me before they knew I was gay liked me after after as well. Eventually I made homecoming court and took my boyfriend to prom, which was fun."

JB's Story
"Coming to terms with your sexuality isn't easy for anyone, but the difficulty is tripled when you're from a farming community located in the buckle of the Bible Belt."

Thanks to all who submitted their stories. If you want to contribute, contact us.

Resources

Area Youth Groups
We have a list of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth support and community groups. There may be one in your area. Check this page out for information.

PFLAG
PFLAG, Parents, Friends, and Familes of Lesbians and Gays, is the national organization to support friends and families of LGBT people. Check the site out for meetings in your area and resources.

Youth Guardian Services
Youth Guardian Services hosts several amazing listservs for queer youth. Check out their website to join.

National Youth Advocacy Coalition
NYAC is the only organization in the U.S. that serves exclusively gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender youth. Has information about resources in your area and regional conferences.