Why Queer Community Matters (Especially Right Now)
Photo by Mercedes Mehling on Unsplash
Let’s be real: being queer in 2025 isn’t exactly easy. With so much happening politically, from anti-LGBTQ+ laws to harmful rhetoric in the media, it’s no surprise that so many in our community are feeling anxious, exhausted, or isolated. And when the world feels overwhelming, connecting with other people who get it isn’t just nice… It’s essential for our mental health.
That’s why building and nurturing queer community matters more than ever.
Whether you’re out and proud, still figuring things out, or somewhere in between, finding your people can make a huge difference. Here at Valid Love, we see every day how meaningful connection can be for healing, growth, and resilience. And we want to talk about why community is a lifeline, especially in today’s political and cultural climate.
Queer People Need Each Other. That’s Not New
There’s a long history of queer folks leaning on one another when systems let us down. It’s been true during the AIDS crisis, it’s true now with attacks on trans rights, and it’ll be true as we keep pushing for a world where we can all live safely and authentically.
In LGBTQIA+ community, there’s something powerful about being seen without needing to explain yourself. No translating, no tiptoeing, no pretending. Just showing up as you are and being met with a “same here.”
That kind of connection does more than make us feel good. It literally improves mental health. Studies show that having supportive relationships can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. For LGTQIA+ humans, especially those who’ve faced rejection, discrimination, or invisibility, being in community can be life-changing.
Why It Feels Harder Right Now
It’s not just in your head. Things are heavy right now. With hundreds of bills introduced across the country targeting LGBTQ+ rights (especially trans and nonbinary people), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disheartened. Social media can amplify the noise, and in some parts of the country, even just being open members of the community can feel risky.
This can lead to what is call “minority stress”—that constant low-level tension of navigating a world that often doesn’t feel safe. It wears on your nervous system. It can make it hard to trust people. And it can make you want to isolate, which is understandable, but can also be really lonely.
Community can be a powerful antidote. It reminds us that we’re not alone in this. That we’re not broken or “too much.” And that joy, play, and belonging are still possible—even in the midst of political chaos.
Community Isn’t Just a Buzzword—It’s a Mental Health Tool
Photo by Karollyne Videira Hubert on Unsplash
When we talk about building community, we don’t mean you have to join every group or suddenly become super extroverted. It’s about finding connection in ways that feel meaningful to you.
That could look like:
Having a group chat with other queer folks who cheer you on.
Going to local LGBTQ+ events (like the one we’re about to tell you about 👀).
Being part of a queer book club, game night, or mutual aid group.
Following creators online who make you feel seen.
Volunteering or organizing with groups doing work you care about.
Or just having one or two solid people who get it.
Every connection counts. Even small, consistent ones can reduce feelings of loneliness and build a sense of belonging—which is one of the best things you can do for your mental health.
Let’s Make It Easier to Meet People
We get it, meeting new people as an adult is hard. Meeting other queer folks can feel even harder, especially if you’re in a smaller city, new to the area, or don’t feel super comfortable in bar or party scenes.
That’s why we’re so excited to invite you to Queer Connections: A Speed Friending Event 🌈💬
🗓 When: Tuesday, June 4th
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Where: Bottega (723 N 4th St, Wilmington, NC)
This is not a dating event. It’s a chill, fun space to meet other queer folks, have some great conversations, and maybe even make a new friend or two (or ten). Think low-pressure vibes, plenty of laughs, and good company. Whether you're new in town, looking to expand your circle, or just want to be around other queer humans, this event is for you.
You don’t have to be a social butterfly. You just have to show up.
A Final Word: You Deserve Connection
We know how hard it can be to reach out or put yourself out there, especially when the world feels like it’s closing in. But we also know this: you deserve connection. You deserve to be known, loved, and supported exactly as you are.
Building queer community is about more than friendship. It’s about survival. It’s about joy. It’s about saying, “I’m here, and I’m not alone.” And even when it feels scary or awkward or slow to come together, it’s worth it.
So whether you come to Queer Connections, send that “wanna hang out?” text, or just keep showing up as your beautifully queer self, know that you’re doing something important. Something healing. Something brave.
We’re proud to be in community with you.
With love and solidarity,