At the start of 2025, a Black non-binary Dad and their partner traded city life in Bath for the small market town of Frome in Somerset. Despite fears of discrimination and isolation, the move has proven to be the best decision for their family, bringing unexpected community and joy.
From City to Countryside
The family, including their young child, moved to Frome to escape rising costs and cramped living conditions in Bath. They had been struggling with soaring rent, food, and bill prices while living in a one-bedroom flat with recurring black mould. The move offered more space and a garden, allowing them to grow their own food.
The author, Nic Crosara, a Deputy Editor at DIVA Magazine, had previously lived in Cornwall and Cambridgeshire, where they felt othered due to their skin color and LGBTQ+ identity. They were initially hesitant about rural life, but Frome has proved to be different.
Unexpected Community and Joy
In Frome, the family has been welcomed by neighbors who greeted them with flowers and cards, and even shared spare vegetables from their gardens. They have also met other LGBTQ+ parents and queer and trans people their age, which was a pleasant surprise.
One of the author's personal victories was finding an affirming haircut at a local salon. After a long-overdue haircut, they looked in the mirror and felt gender euphoria, realizing that they could have their afro hair cut the way they liked even in a quaint town.
Challenging Assumptions
The author reflects that many queer people and people of color leave small towns for cities to find community, but they moved in the opposite direction. They now believe that you can be Black, Brown, trans, or queer and thrive outside of the city.
The family enjoys the quiet and natural surroundings, waking up to the sound of birds and sleeping with windows open without earplugs. The author's life feels fuller now, and they are proud of the place they call home.
