TL;DR
- Kevin and Dragan left city life for a farm in Virginia.
- Their farm promotes LGBTQ+ acceptance in a conservative area.
- They faced challenges but gained community support.
- The farm is a local landmark and a symbol of hope.
- Their story highlights the importance of visibility.
In the heart of Virginia, a bold sign along US-301 declares: “Gardening Gays Farm.” This isn’t just a quirky name; it’s a statement of pride from Kevin Graham and Dragan Kurbalija, a married gay couple who traded the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., for the tranquil life of farming. They’ve created a sanctuary where acceptance blooms alongside their crops, proving that love and hard work can flourish even in unexpected places.
Kevin and Dragan’s journey began when they grew tired of cocktail parties and city life. They wanted something more meaningful, especially after witnessing the food shortages during the pandemic. “I told Kevin, we don’t have to worry about what our next meal is,” Dragan recalls. So, they packed their bags, bought a farm in King George County, and set out to cultivate not just crops, but a community.
Despite the conservative backdrop of their county, the couple has become beloved local figures, winning multiple awards and even receiving a nod in the Congressional Record. Their farm has become a hub of activity, drawing in locals and travelers alike who are curious to see what the “gay farm” is all about. Kevin describes the experience: “People are stopping, buying our goods, and chatting like neighbors. It’s what we wanted all along.” It’s a refreshing twist in a place where such openness isn’t always the norm.
But it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. The couple faced backlash when someone dumped waste near their property, an act that sparked outrage among their supporters. The community rallied around them, showcasing the power of unity and acceptance. Even in a place that leans conservative, Kevin and Dragan have shown that kindness can transcend political divides.
Yet, not all interactions have been positive. After a school visit where they wore their Gardening Gays hoodies, one parent complained, leading to a chilling effect on their outreach efforts. “It’s sad that one person had to ruin it. But so be it,” Kevin reflects, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to their mission.
Through it all, the couple remains focused on what matters most: their farm and the people who visit it. They’re not interested in being symbols of the LGBTQ+ movement; they just want to sell eggs and produce to their neighbors. Dragan emphasizes, “I want to grow this business. I don’t need to antagonize half the population.” Their approach is one of soft power, using their visibility to foster acceptance in a way that feels organic and genuine.
As they continue to build their farm and community connections, Kevin and Dragan are living proof that love can thrive anywhere, even in the most unlikely of places. Their story is a reminder that visibility matters, and that sometimes, the most powerful advocacy comes from simply being yourself.
For more on their inspiring journey, check out Meet the Gardening Gays of Virginia.