Klaus Solko, staff writer

The world is a very trying place right now. In times like this, one of the most important things is community. However, the task of finding community and their respective spaces can be very daunting. Luckily, with Augsburg and the Twin Cities as an outlet, these spaces exist and are just waiting to be discovered. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community who has dipped my toes in a variety of these spaces, I would like to share what I know about the queer spaces across the Metro for those who might need it. 

About a 10 minute walk from Augsburg, near Rebecca’s Bakery, is a gay bookstore called Boneshaker Books. It isn’t a very well known store, so if you are someone who prefers interacting with less people this would be the place for you. Most of the books there are focused on socialism, feminism and other social justice and activism topics. This is a very good place to learn about said topics without having to weed through the internet. On top of that, they also sell many items from local makers like patches, earrings and zines. Boneshaker also hosts quite a few events throughout the year. I was recently able to go to the Gay Makers Market that featured many different sellers and goodies at affordable price points. 

A newer space that opened in Nov. 2024 is Queermunity. This cafe and community space is around 35 minutes away from Augsburg by bus. This space is beloved by many Augsburg students, including myself. They have a community cupboard, free books to read while there, puzzles and very cheap coffee. This space is so comfortable and there is no pressure to spend any money to be there, which makes it a great place to suggest a group hangout. It can also be a great place to chat and study, especially because the space is large enough to accommodate a large group of people. They also throw a lot of events, such as study days for college students, author interviews and book signings, movie nights and art workshops. 

The last place I will talk about is Augsburg itself. Augsburg has so many amazing resources for its LGBTQIA+ students. The Queer, Indigenous and People of Color (QIPOC) organization throws really fun events almost every month. They are such a fun and accepting group that even if you show up alone, you won’t stay alone for long. There is also a queer connections group that meets in the Center for Wellness and Counseling (CWC) on Tuesdays; while I have not yet had the chance to go, I know they have snacks and some really cool people. While he is not a group or place, LGBTQIA+ Student Services Program Manager Tristan Crowell is a really cool guy who loves to give advice to students about making connections. 

While I am only able to highlight a select few of the places and spaces for LGBTQIA+ people, there are much more to be explored. In a time that feels so isolating, it can be hard to remember that these spaces do exist and will continue to exist, which is why I felt the urge to shine a light on them.