Key facts
- A family moved from Iowa to Illinois seeking a more welcoming environment.
- The family cited conservative legislative changes in Iowa impacting LGBTQ rights and public schools.
- Iowa has seen a political shift towards conservative policies, including bans on mask mandates and discussions of LGBTQ topics in schools.
- The state of Iowa removed gender identity as a protected class from its Civil Rights Act in 2025.
- The family sought a community where their LGBTQ identity would be affirmed and their children would feel safe.
The author details the reasons behind their family's decision to leave Iowa for Illinois, citing a growing sense of being unwelcome and a perceived rollback of rights for the LGBTQ community. The family, with children in kindergarten and third grade, found that while Iowa offered affordability and convenience, the political and social climate became increasingly challenging.
Key legislative changes in Iowa, such as funding cuts to public schools and diversion to vouchers, along with bans on mask mandates and restrictions on discussing LGBTQ topics in classrooms, contributed to this feeling. The state's removal of gender identity as a protected class from the Civil Rights Act in 2025 and a Senate resolution questioning same-sex marriage further heightened concerns. The author notes that even simple interactions, like explaining their family structure to restaurant staff, often resulted in confusion or the issuance of separate checks, highlighting a societal discomfort with their identity.
Despite the positive aspects of Iowa, such as its natural beauty and lower cost of living, the author felt the need to prioritize safety and affirmation for their family. The move to Illinois involved a higher cost of living, with increased mortgage payments and property taxes, but provided a community with visible support for LGBTQ individuals, inclusive school environments, and a sense of belonging. The author reflects on the privilege of being able to relocate and the broader issue of affordability and dignity for LGBTQ individuals nationwide, referencing reports from GLAAD and The Trevor Project that indicate a significant portion of the LGBTQ community considers or has considered moving due to safety concerns.