Can also recommend looking into local HEMA clubs as a step in that direction depending on your goals. Generally they tend to be queer friendly (if not queer themselves) and can help you learn some melee combat basics, which may be more relevant depending on your environment. I learned a lot from axe-and-shield fighting, even though it's not directly applicable in most real world situations. But the silly Viking shit was fun enough to make me really love showing up and practicing, and it helped me get confident using an axe. So now I feel comfortable open carrying a utility axe for self-defense with a lot of plausible deniability. Also taught me how to deal with a riot shield :3
LGBT, blacks and women have been the largest gun buying demographic for a few years. Some of you suburban white boys need to ask yourself why before you end up on a train ride you never thought could happen.
I'm a straight, middle-aged white dude, but I have no fear wearing my gear out and about.