It seems like every time we read the news LGBTQ+ rights are under attack someplace. Yet, we always hear wonderful stories from queer people about how amazing the country, state, city, town, neighborhood, or cabin in the woods where they live really is.
This year’s IHS reading challenge will focus on books set in different parts of the world. We think it’s vital to show that sapphic people not only exist but are everywhere.
We also want to hear from authors and readers about where they live. If you’d like to share your experiences, click here for the interview form.
Today, Sandy S is here to tell us about Mechanicsburg, PA USA.
Where in the world will you be taking us today?
Mechanicsburg, PA USA
Tell us in one sentence what’s so special about living in this place.
History, beautiful country, diverse, and great food.
How long have you lived there? Or, if you no longer live in this place, how long were you there and when did you leave?
All my life but for 13 yrs in Delaware (I’m 76).
What is/was it like being a sapphic (or LGBTQ+) person living in this place?
50’s, 60’s, 70’s were hard because of the discrimination, I was a teacher which made it worse, central PA is very conservative, but has a lot to entertain (arts, sports, parks, etc).
What about living in this place gives you hope?
We’ve gone up & down thru the years but again, I see hope with the next elections, and we have strong support tin many places.
Are there any challenges to living in this place, either as a queer person or more generally?
Conservatives, MAGA won last election, usually Democratic state (Dem. Gov, etc), I think it will go back next election.
For someone who has never been there, what’s the one thing that they must see or do if visiting your area?
Hershey Park, Middle Creek Park, and beautiful scenery.
What’s the one type of regional food and/or drink they absolutely must try?
PA Dutch foods….
Do you have a favorite local restaurant? What makes it special?
Elegant -Hershey Circle Dining at the Hotel, too many PA Dutch restaurants to list.
Meet Sandy S
Poor family, put self through college, taught school for 13 years, wore many hats: short order cook, UPS delivery driver, IBM, State Dept of Ed. Minister (started church in DE), coached 3 sports while teaching, love dogs (esp. bichons), fostered many, like to write & read, retired again and now live with my dogs in retirement home.
