Feeling home in Louisville’s recovery rooms: Dave Conrad
Photo by Sarah Davis
Queer Kentucky has partnered with Louisville Magazine for our fourth print issue. We asked Louisvillians and Kentuckians at large about their queerness and its relationship to the city, where they feel at home, who was there for them when it felt like nobody else was, the biggest issues facing Louisville’s queer communities, and much more. We would love it if you — whether you live in Louisville or not — would answer the questions too. If you’d like to, you can find the interview here. In this issue, you will find stories of Queer Kentuckians telling tales of their beloved safe spaces, paying tribute to the loved ones who uplifted them when no one else would, laughing about their coming out stories, and so much more. Kentucky, and Louisville, have a lot of work left to do when it comes to embracing the queer community. But hey, it’s not as bad as people think it is. Read on, you’ll see. You can purchase the print version of this issue here.
Besides your own house — or the house of family or friends — what Louisville place makes you feel at home?
I feel at home most anywhere, from the Frisbee field in Cherokee Park to walking around the Highlands. I also feel at home when I’m at a recovery meeting. Familiar places filled with memories. Finding acceptance, inner peace and a community.
Who was the person you chose to come out to?
My friend Nicole when I was in high school. She already had other gay friends and talked about going to gay clubs. It felt safe telling her, like she could keep it a secret and that she would love me no matter what.
What’s the biggest issue facing Louisville’s LGBTQ+ communities? What do you think would help solve that issue? Trans rights. Telling and broadcasting trans stories is the most effective way of solving it because more people will see a trans person as a person with their own struggles, triumphs and talents. Humanize the movement for a broader audience.
Why’d you pick that photo?
It seemed like a fun moment: picking clover flowers in the grass — at a time when I remember a lot of affection and care.
