The first thing is to find the queer community where you live. Gay bars/clubs are one way to go because people are obviously going there to meet people. Drag shows are another place, and drag can be a lot of fun if you want to try it out as part of your exploration. I’m going to make a guess just on the basis of you asking this question that you don’t live in SF, LA, NYC, or Chicago, but hopefully there’s a scene someplace near you.

You can also try using an app and telling people that you’re interested in getting to know the community and ask about places to go and meet people. You can be honest about not looking for a hookup (assuming you’re not), and being more in the market for getting to know people. You might get some rude responses, so don’t take it personally (they don’t know you, they’re just jerks), but you’ll probably get some suggestions or an invitation to brunch or something.

If marathoning We’re Here has taught me anything, it’s that there are queer communities just about everywhere, but they may be small and hidden. m Also, do some reading and watching of queer media. There’s just far to much to go through these days, but you’ll find all kinds of representation out there.