[Meglion]

We are a same-sex, mixed-religion couple considering buying a place in the Marvin Beach area of Norwalk (moving from the University area in Fairfield, which we like, but we're drawn to the idea of a more walkable neighborhood that feels a little like the Cape). Can anyone tell me what the area is like in terms of diversity and openness/inclusion? We do not have children, are both highly-educated, and are in our early 50s. Thanks much.

[JayCT]

I can't imagine that East Norwalk, where Marvin Beach is located, is any less accepting or open than Fairfield. If anything I would think it is more. Norwalk is one of the most diverse communities in Fairfield County so I would not worry about being accepted there. Since you do not have children and schools are not important, I see no reason to not move there. Good luck, Jay

[kidyankee764]

Diversity doesn’t automatically mean “accepting”. Many cultures do not approve of homosexuality, and are far more critical of it than white American culture. I’d be willing to bet that the community of Fairfield would be much more accepting of it than working class Norwalk. That said, I doubt you’ll have much of an issue. JMO.

[Stylo]

Originally Posted by kidyankee764

Diversity doesn’t automatically mean “accepting”. Many cultures do not approve of homosexuality, and are far more critical of it than white American culture. I’d be willing to bet that the community of Fairfield would be much more accepting of it than working class Norwalk. That said, I doubt you’ll have much of an issue. JMO.

Marvin Beach is not working class though. It's actually a pricey little area. I have some friends there and they love it. They are definitely open minded, progressive people. They say it's beachy, friendly, and laid back. Very tight community.

[kidyankee764]

Originally Posted by Stylo

Marvin Beach is not working class though. It's actually a pricey little area. I have some friends there and they love it. They are definitely open minded, progressive people. They say it's beachy, friendly, and laid back. Very tight community.

Right, but it’s also not a “diverse” little area. That’s why I said they wouldn’t have an issue.

IMO, the most critical of homosexuality are those diverse neighborhoods. It’s just not tolerated in many cultures. Just wanted to point out that “diverse” doesn’t always mean accepting.

[MikefromCT]

IMO the areas that would be least tolerant would be the blue-collar communities with a more working-class vibe. East Norwalk has gone up in value so it's not as cheap as it once was, which means a wealthier clientele.


There's a difference between classist, white-collar snobbery (and tends to judge people by their bank account or college education) and blue-collar rudeness where there's more condescension towards the LGBT community and others. It's this latter group that I would be more inclined to avoid if I were you. In any event, I can't see you having an issue in Marvin Beach.

[kidyankee764]

Originally Posted by MikefromCT

IMO the areas that would be least tolerant would be the blue-collar communities with a more working-class vibe. East Norwalk has gone up in value so it's not as cheap as it once was, which means a wealthier clientele.


There's a difference between classist, white-collar snobbery (and tends to judge people by their bank account or college education) and blue-collar rudeness where there's more condescension towards the LGBT community and others. It's this latter group that I would be more inclined to avoid if I were you. In any event, I can't see you having an issue in Marvin Beach.

Totally agree.

[CTartist]

Originally Posted by Stylo

Marvin Beach is not working class though. It's actually a pricey little area. I have some friends there and they love it. They are definitely open minded, progressive people. They say it's beachy, friendly, and laid back. Very tight community.

I have a friend that lives off of Gregory Blvd. She loves it down there and so do I. My brother is a musician and he plays at the social & boat club (59 Seaview Ave.) across from the little marina on occasion. I have done "the hang" with the people in that area and they seem pretty nice to me. In that little club you do see all colors/nationalities hanging out together. That is what I have observed anyway.

I used to work on Van Zant Street at a magazine about 20 years ago and got to know some people in that area back then too. It is still the same vibe.

IMO that area is more laid back and friendlier than Fairfield.....although I do like Fairfield very much. Let me put it this way......when I go into Fairfield I am aware of the "keeping up with the Jonses" vibe but not in that area of Norwalk in and around Gregory Blvd.

[JayCT]

Originally Posted by kidyankee764

Diversity doesn’t automatically mean “accepting”. Many cultures do not approve of homosexuality, and are far more critical of it than white American culture. I’d be willing to bet that the community of Fairfield would be much more accepting of it than working class Norwalk. That said, I doubt you’ll have much of an issue. JMO.

I disagree. Norwalk is a large city with a wide range of people including a gay community. This is not working class Pittsburgh. It’s affluent Connecticut and Marvin Beach and East Norwalk would be fine with this couple. Jay

[CTartist]

Originally Posted by JayCT

I disagree. Norwalk is a large city with a wide range of people including a gay community. This is not working class Pittsburgh. It’s affluent Connecticut and Marvin Beach and East Norwalk would be fine with this couple. Jay