I talk to people a lot about the importance of community because I know the importance of it from my own personal experience.

Meeting and connecting with other queer people is part of what kept me going on some dark days as I was wrestling with my sexuality and how that was going to fit in my life.

I’m still so grateful for my queer friends and community and continue to work to find “my people” as I continue to move through my life. 

What are some of the benefits of finding queer community? So glad you asked.

Support and Understanding

Queer individuals often face unique challenges and experiences.

Being part of a community can provide a supportive environment where they can share their feelings and experiences with others who understand and empathize.

I remember attending a lot of “friendship circles” at a local queer support center when I was coming out, and that space of support and understanding was invaluable to me.

Combating Social Isolation

Many queer people may face social isolation or rejection from their families or peers. A community can act as a chosen family, offering social connections and a sense of belonging.

For me, knowing people I could reach out to and spend time with and talk to really combated that social isolation that I felt. 

Connection to Resources

Communities may offer access to various resources, knowledge, and support that you may not hear about or find elsewhere.

You may find people who have already been through similar things and know where to point you for the information and resources you may need, such as legal assistance, counseling, or support groups.

I actually found my therapist by talking to a queer friend who recommended her! I never would have found my therapist otherwise, as she wasn’t advertising for clients.

Emotional and Social Growth

Participation in a community can lead to personal growth, improved communication skills, and emotional resilience. Because of that, sometimes being in a community can be uncomfortable as you’re growing and learning new skills.

But if you stick to it, you can have a lot of growth and become even more of the person you want to become.

Positive Role Models

This was crucial for me. Though I didn’t have any formal or assigned role models in the community I built for myself initially, it was transforming for me to meet queer people who were out and happy with who they were.

When I couldn’t see the possibility for myself, seeing others who were there gave me hope. 

Friendship and Networking

Communities offer opportunities to form deep friendships and professional networks. I’m still friends with many of the people I originally met when I was coming out and I’m so grateful that they’re still in my life. 

Having a Safe Space

Queer community can also be a safe place, though it’s not always a guarantee. But for me, it was so helpful to find queer community where I didn’t have to explain myself and it was assumed I was queer instead of not.

I didn’t have to fear being put down because I was queer. Instead, my queerness was welcome and even celebrated.

Which leads me to my final thought of…

Fostering a Sense of Pride

Being part of a community can instill a sense of pride in one’s identity. Pride in being queer can lead to increased self-esteem and self-acceptance.

When I connected to queer community, I started accepting and even being happy with my queerness, which is something I never would have thought was possible.

Now, it’s important to note that not every community is created equally. And not every community may be what you need at that time. But so much good can come from finding the right community for you.

And if you are a queer person looking for community, come check out the Queerly You retreats where you can connect with other queer individuals and get support for your journey.