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, Penny Mabie is here to tell us about Puget Sound, Washington, USA.
Where in the world will you be taking us today?
Puget Sound, Washington, USA
Tell us in one sentence what’s so special about living in this place.
The Puget Sound region of Washington State has it all – developed and undeveloped waterfront, bustling suburbs, Seattle, a city that glistens in the sunlight and hums in the rain clouds, a thriving LGBTQ+ community and all the culture one could ask for.
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?
I’ve lived in this region, in many different places, for 50 years.
What is/was it like being a sapphic (or LGBTQ+) person living in this place?
It’s been primarily a safe bubble, going back to the 80s, where a trip to Seattle’s
Capital Hill district allowed us to be out and proud, even if we weren’t out in our day to day life.
What about living in this place gives you hope?
I see diversity being valued, a strong environmental ethic, progressive politicians, and an active youth. While it’s not all rainbows and lollipops, there’s nowhere I’d rather be.
Are there any challenges to living in this place, either as a queer person or more generally?
For all, traffic is daunting. As a queer person, once you get out of the “bubble”, into more rural areas, you may not feel as welcomed, although that is hit or miss.
For someone who has never been there, what’s the one thing that they must see or do if visiting your area?
Take a tour of Seattle that includes the Space Needle, the sculpture park, a ride on our idyllic ferries, and a visit to one of our beach parks.
What’s the one type of regional food and/or drink they absolutely must try?
Fresh-caught salmon and craft beer.
Do you have a favorite local restaurant? What makes it special?
The Pink Door, an Italian restaurant in Post Alley in Pike Place Market, with excellent entertainment including trapeze artists and chanteuses.
Meet Penny Mabie
I’m retired from a career of community engagement, which took me across the state and our country, bringing people together to participate in decisions that affected their lives. I’m a people person and an ardent fly fisher. Married to the love of my life for 30 years, I lost her to liver disease. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find another love, and we’re happily exploring our state, our country and the rest of the world together. I am a very active volunteer in conservation, leading a state grassroots organization.
