Homophobia in richmond (Roanoke: live, moving to, office)

[RVA-Jsn20]

Does anyone else (specifically talking to gay people here) experience constant prejudice here in Richmond? It especially comes from straight men and old people. I'm really sick of it and frankly plan to move out of this dump immediately after I graduate.

[Teebyrd86]

Originally Posted by RVA-Jsn20

Does anyone else (specifically talking to gay people here) experience constant prejudice here in Richmond? It especially comes from straight men and old people. I'm really sick of it and frankly plan to move out of this dump immediately after I graduate.

I believe homophobia is everywhere and sadly it will follow you no matter where you go but the good thing is it seems more and more people are adapting to it. I have lived in Richmond, South West Va (roanoke) and now Nova and have seen that kind of behavior in all of those places Nova being the only exception (probably havnt been here long enough!).. I will say it really surprised me how many Gays/Lesbians where in the Roanoke area. I think those that are prejudiced to it are just very insecure human beings and probably dont even know who they are sexually. Its sad but its the world. Just pay them no mind and continue on and just be happy being who you are.. I know I am!

[BayAreaHillbilly]

Hey I've got a suggestion, maybe move to Queens, NYC, or perhaps, a majority Asian enclave in CA. Thaaaaaaaat's the ticket! No homophobia at all in such utopias! /sarc

[Teebyrd86]

Originally Posted by BayAreaHillbilly

Hey I've got a suggestion, maybe move to Queens, NYC, or perhaps, a majority Asian enclave in CA. Thaaaaaaaat's the ticket! No homophobia at all in such utopias! /sarc

I dont see how your reply has much to do with the OPS question. Do us all a favor and keep your stupid non-relavent comments to yourself and off the boards!

[BayAreaHillbilly]

Originally Posted by Teebyrd86

I dont see how your reply has much to do with the OPS question. Do us all a favor and keep your stupid non-relavent comments to yourself and off the boards!

The point is, the grass is always greener on the other side of the hill, until you get there.

The OP should think about how to have a better life in Richmond.

Some of it is probably related to life stage more than the environment per se.

So there.

[ScranBarre]

Wherever there's an idiot you'll find a homophobe. Sadly America is full of idiots, so there's a pretty good chance you're never more than a few doors away from a homophobe!

[roanoker 4]

Yes, I'm afraid America is way too full of ignorant people. It is very sad to see NO leadership from our elected officials(LOL) on the issue as if there are NO Gay people in America! Civil Rights is not a joke, it affects many peoples lives, especially here in VA. I would say Gay people are "tolerated" here, not embraced or encouraged to excel. Many Gays who grow up in small country towns in SW VA, WV come to Roanoke and look at it as the "Big City". Roanoke has an unusually large number of Gay organizations, support groups.
There is a huge Pride event in the middle of downtown every year which never seems to have trouble from outsiders. I also understand Asheville NC(similar to Roanoke in many ways)has a large gay scene. Maybe the natural beauty and cultural emphasis of this area draws more creative types rather than the more stoic, staid professions seen in other parts of the state.

[parkrva]

My brother is gay, married, adopted a baby, and loved Richmond while he lived here but his job took him to New Jersey.

Saying that Richmond is a dump I find offensive and am inclined to be un-helpful considering some of us call this "dump" home.

[aceofjades]

Old people hate everybody, it's a privelege of aging that you get to be a senseless curmudgeon but seriously, the other posters are correct that ignorance, prejudice and stereotyping are everywhere. i am a native Ny'er who just moved to Richmond and I always feel like people are staring at me because I'm not Caucasian. I am convinced that people here think either you're black or white, and if you're anything else, you're probably a terrorist.

I am also aware that this prejudice comes from my insecurity about being an outsider than from actual comments or reactions from people. Perhaps you don't quite feel comfortable here either? Moving to a big city with a large gay community and a support network for like minded individuals may help you feel more comfortable, but it won't shield you from prejudice. Richmond isn't the problem. People are.

[newhandle]

Richmond is better than it was, but you are right, bright young people who are gay should live where they are welcome with open arms, not accepted as an afterthought. Can you imagine the City of Richmond actively looking for gay police officers. I think not. The election of a GOP homophobe should tell you the state of mind of the state and area. GET OUT!