I wish I had a dollar for every time someone commented on one of the city/state articles with “you couldn’t pay me to live there!” Fortunately, we (our LGBTQ+ family) live everywhere. I lived in Colorado when Amendment 2 passed – terrible, hateful legislation, but I didn’t leave – instead we fought for equality then and we continue to fight for equality today. Today Colorado has a gay Governor!
While it’s understandable that members of our LGBTQ+ community often gravitate toward safe zones or “blue” areas that are known for their inclusivity and support, there are many reasons why it’s crucial for the LGBTQ+ community to consider living beyond these areas.
By embracing a broader geographical reach, LGBTQ+ individuals can create a more diverse, inclusive, and understanding society.
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of LGBTQ+ individuals living outside of blue-controlled safe zones and the potential positive impact on both the community and society as a whole.
- Encouraging Greater Acceptance and Understanding:
When LGBTQ+ individuals live in various parts of the country, they help foster greater understanding and acceptance among different communities. Exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences can help break down stereotypes, challenge biases, and promote empathy among individuals who may not have had much interaction with LGBTQ+ people before.
- Strengthening LGBTQ+ Rights Nationwide:
By living in regions where LGBTQ+ rights may not be as strong, individuals can play a vital role in advocating for better legal protections and policies. Activism and community involvement can lead to positive change, even in areas that have traditionally been resistant to LGBTQ+ rights.
- Economic Opportunities:
Limiting oneself to living only in LGBTQ+ friendly areas may result in missed opportunities for personal and professional growth. By living in different regions, LGBTQ+ individuals can access a wider range of job opportunities, industries, and experiences that may not be as readily available in traditionally safe zones.
- Building Stronger Communities:
LGBTQ+ individuals living beyond safe zones can contribute to building stronger, more inclusive communities. By getting involved in local organizations, events, and initiatives, LGBTQ+ individuals can foster a sense of belonging and create networks of support for others who may be struggling with their own identity or feeling isolated.
- Challenging Stereotypes:
LGBTQ+ individuals living in a variety of locations can help challenge and dispel stereotypes about the community. By demonstrating the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and its members, it becomes more difficult for detractors to stereotype or marginalize the community as a whole.
Living beyond safe zones can undoubtedly present challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals, but the potential benefits of doing so are immense. By fostering greater acceptance and understanding, advocating for rights, accessing economic opportunities, building stronger communities, and challenging stereotypes, LGBTQ+ individuals can help create a more inclusive and understanding society for all.
Embracing the opportunity to live in different parts of the country not only empowers LGBTQ+ individuals but also contributes to the broader goal of achieving equality and acceptance for all.
If you’re considering a move, connect with a full-time professional LGBTQ+ realtor at GayRealEstate.com today! Start a conversation, and rest assured, your best interests can be protected! Free home buyers representation.
Jeff Hammerberg is a distinguished entrepreneur and broker, and the visionary founder of GayRealEstate.com. For over 25 years, he has been a prolific writer, coach, and author who has been instrumental in advancing the cause of fair, honest, and equitable representation for all members of the LGBTQ+ community in real estate matters. GayRealEstate.com, which he established, is the largest and longest-running gay real estate agent referral service in the nation, boasting over 3500 LGBTQ+ realtors who operate in cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico. His commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in real estate has earned him a reputation as a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
