The decision to move to Tucson from my native San Diego was not an easy one. It was time for my fiance, Alex, and I to face the fact that we were never going to make it in such a desperate economy.
Moving back to Tucson was something I never thought I would do. I spent a brief amount of time here when I was in 3rd grade, before my mom and step dad decided to move to the much more sprawling Phoenix and it wasn’t the most enjoyable time in my childhood. Nevertheless, we decided that the cost of living and career opportunities were too good to pass up. I also have a younger brother and some extended family here and that was a big plus.
However, we found ourselves questioning if we would fit in. My impressions of Arizonans, or “zonies”, after living in Phoenix for 4 years, was that a vast majority are right-winged, gun-toting conservatives. How was an avid LGBTQ supporter and her bisexual partner going to make friends in this environment? Especially coming from the very liberal San Diego, where they have a whole part of the city that is an LGBTQ community?
I can honestly say we were pleasantly surprised to be welcomed with open arms. Upon arriving in here in early Spring, Alex and I rented a sublet for the summer at Stone Curves co-housing community. We found ourselves surrounded by like-minded and loving people who lived in peace, working alongside each other to keep the community flourishing.
They changed our perspective about Tucson the first day we moved in. I learned about the several places of business designated for and accepting of the gay community from our neighbor, who is a female to male post-op transexual. There’s even a Pride Parade! Doesn’t get much better than that, right?
Tucson is such a refreshing change from Phoenix. The slow-paced, laid back feel is much more enjoyable than the hustle and bustle of most American cities. Plus, it’s even cooler in the summers! I’ll admit I haven’t been able to explore as much of the local LGBTQ community as I have wanted to in my 7 months here, but with the help of Gay Tucson’s faithful followers, I plan on changing that very soon.
The overall feeling I get is that more residents are supportive and accepting of gay individuals. We are living in a much more accommodating city and for that I am thankful. It’s high time that love and equality is more abundant than hate and fear. I believe that this little oasis in the desert provides me with a fantastic chance to connect with a great group of lovely individuals.
I am committed to fighting for equality because I was raised to accept and respect each and every person on this Earth, regardless of any differences. Embracing the diversity of human nature is a much more progressive way of treating your fellow man/woman. I hope I continue to see Tucson’s residents gain more knowledge and respect for the LGBTQ community we have.
This particular blog will be an aggregate of all that is LGBTQ related.
I encourage any questions, comments, submissions and suggestions.
You can direct any of those to my email at brittanytigisd@gmail.com.
Tony Ray Baker
Latest posts by Tony Ray Baker (see all)
- Finding Your Fit: Guide to LGBTQ-Inclusive Healthcare Providers in Tucson – April 16, 2024
- Support LGBTQ Businesses Thriving in Tucson’s Rainbow Economy – April 3, 2024
- Cultural Connections: 2024 LGBTQ Pride Guide – March 7, 2024
Tony Ray
(520) 631-TONY (8669)
www.SeeTucsonHomes.com
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Tony Ray Baker, Realtor®: TonyRay@GayTucson.com
Licensed Real Estate agent in Tucson Arizona with RE/MAX Select
