A lot of interesting comments and insights here. I find it hard to believe that anyone in “fly-over” country in the 60’s-70’s period would “choose” to make their life a living hell, while many did exactly that.
As a heterosexual I do not pretend to understand homosexual at all, but I will say whether its genetic or situational is a fairly moot point. They are what they are and it is NOT a choice unless you live in NY or CA. If you have close friends or relatives that are gay you know this “choice” business is a bunch of foolishness.
Other cities don't allow easy homosexuality? Not Minneapolis, or Laramie, or Lincoln, or Grand Junction?