[COMP33SN]

All,

Partner and I are moving to Burlington area near year's end. We realize the state has legalized marriage, but are curious to know if there are neighborhoods around the Burlington area (or within a short drive) where it is more gay-friendly and/or diverse to live. We don't need to live in the heart of the gay community (not sure that even exists there), but would like to ensure we chose a spot that is welcoming to all people.

Thanks.

[Sherylcatmom]

I've asked some friends who live in Burlington. If they come back with answers I'll post 'em here.

[Vermonr]

There isn't a particular "Gay Area" of Burlington as far as I am aware (correct me if I am wrong) but all of Burlington and most of Vermont is very gay friendly. Every summer in July Burlington does the Gay Festival- there's a parade and the shops sell a lot of supportive merchandise, etc. You really shouldn't find too much opposition here. Vermonters are usually very quiet about their political beliefs and are not nosy people, so I think it would be unlikely for you to experience hostility.

[Lilybeans]

As long as it isn't flaunted in someone's face. Just be normal.

[Sherylcatmom]

Originally Posted by Lilybeans

As long as it isn't flaunted in someone's face. Just be normal.

What is normal? I like when people are being themselves rather than trying to act like someone's idea of normal.

If it were me, I'd want to live where I could be myself and care for my family as a heterosexual family would. Couples may wish to hold hands or show affection like any other people who care about each other. Some places are safer than others for just being oneself. Anyone who's been verbally or physically assaulted because someone thought they were gay can tell you how awful this is.

[COMP33SN]

Originally Posted by Lilybeans

As long as it isn't flaunted in someone's face. Just be normal.

I suppose this warrants a request of your definition of "normal". I think people should be themselves (thank you other post). We are certainly "normal" by our standards, but really, aren't all people normal by their own standards?

If you mean "act straight", well, we aren't frolicking all over one another - we've been together far too long to warrant puppy love. But, we're also not closeted and allow folks to know that we are a couple - is that normal?

[arctichomesteader]

Do you have a job lined up in advance? If not I wouldn't even consider doing such a move.

As for location: the larger towns and the cities (Burlington, Brattleboro, Montpelier, etc.) are more supportive of homosexuality. Outside of those areas, you won't find violent opposition, but you won't find that it's terribly supported either. Actually most people outside those areas will be at least mildly opposed to it but most don't go around harassing others over those sorts of things unless you do something like get nude in public which would catch a lot of attention (despite public nudity not necessarily being illegal). And yes I was unfortunately witness to such a thing in Castleton once when I had to visit my brother at the college during the gay pride event there in btwn. a couple buildings who likely thought they were alone or maybe they were intentiionally pushing the envelope. Didn't help themselves. The majority opposed the civil unions law, and if the recent marriage law were voted on it would have failed. I think that about sums up VT as far as homosexuality goes.

[COMP33SN]

[quote=arctichomesteader;10639956]Do you have a job lined up in advance? If not I wouldn't even consider doing such a move.

Yes, we have jobs lined up there. As for opposition, most states are the exact same way, so I don't think VT is any different in that regard.

Are you saying you wouldn't consider such a move because of the job market? We're both in academics so it will be fine for now.

[arctichomesteader]

Originally Posted by COMP33SN

Yes, we have jobs lined up there. As for opposition, most states are the exact same way, so I don't think VT is any different in that regard.

Are you saying you wouldn't consider such a move because of the job market? We're both in academics so it will be fine for now.

The job situation in VT is terrible. There has't really been a good economy in VT since the 19th century. And things just keep sliding downhill every year here it seems. Low wages, high taxes, it's a disaster...if you have a job for absolutely certain then it might be doable but check into costs of living versus what you'll be making for the area. I would never move to this state without a job in advance.

[COMP33SN]

Originally Posted by arctichomesteader

The job situation in VT is terrible. There has't really been a good economy in VT since the 19th century. And things just keep sliding downhill every year here it seems. Low wages, high taxes, it's a disaster...if you have a job for absolutely certain then it might be doable but check into costs of living versus what you'll be making for the area. I would never move to this state without a job in advance.

Thanks for the advice...the honest - though negative - is appreciated. UVM and medical jobs are still in VT, as are plenty in financial services. and the population has increased there every year for 20 years, so jobs musn't be too terrible.