SOS: The fading pulse of lesbian bars and community bonds (Op-Ed)

In the kaleidoscope of LGBTQ+ history, lesbian bars stand as radiant beacons of acceptance and liberation. These havens have provided refuge for gay women, nurturing a sense of belonging, affirmation, and empowerment. Yet, the disheartening decline of lesbian bars across the United States paints a distressing portrait—one that jeopardizes the core of LGBTQ+ progress and the preservation of sanctuaries for gay women.

Lesbian bars boast a storied history that traces back to the early 20th century, an era marked by the stigma and criminalization of homosexuality. These covert establishments granted gay women a fleeting taste of freedom, enabling connections and authentic expression in defiance of societal judgment. Beyond being mere watering holes, these bars were sanctuaries where women-loving women could discover solace and solidarity within a world that often denied their very existence.

The legacy of lesbian bars transcends their role as mere venues; they served as epicenters of activism and community during times of profound adversity. The Stonewall Inn, hailed as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, primarily catered to gay women. This historical epicenter of resilience and resistance underscores the pivotal role lesbian bars played in shaping the narrative of LGBTQ+ liberation.

Nevertheless, today, a distressing pattern of decline casts a shadow over these historical sanctuaries. The emergence of LGBTQ+-friendly spaces and the assimilation of queer identities into mainstream culture has led some to believe that lesbian bars have outlived their significance. Yet, this perspective overlooks the intrinsic importance of these spaces.

Lesbian bars aren’t relics of yesteryears; they remain crucial, serving as spaces where gay women transcend societal norms, forge connections rooted in shared experiences, and revel in the warmth of acceptance. The dwindling number of lesbian bars signifies a painful betrayal of the struggles endured by earlier generations to establish these havens.

The impact of COVID-19 has further exacerbated this crisis. The pandemic, with its financial strains and social distancing measures, dealt a severe blow to lesbian bars. Many owners were compelled to shutter their doors indefinitely, erasing fragments of history and leaving a void that transcends mere physical spaces. The vanishing of these bars deprives the LGBTQ+ community of a tangible link to its past and undermines the sanctuaries required for collective healing and growth.

Amidst this landscape of vanishing lesbian bars, I’m reminded of my first visit to a lesbian bar—the Wildrose in Seattle, WA. Opened in 1976, it stands as a cornerstone of Capitol Hill’s LGBTQ+ community. I vividly recall my Pride visit to The Wildrose, introduced by a friend. Despite its physical modesty compared to other destinations that night, it radiated feminine energy and a palpable ambiance of women loving women. It never felt cramped, even in the midst of a lively crowd; rather, it evoked the warmth of a cherished aunt’s home party, a space to be unequivocally oneself. As Taylor Swift and Cyndi Lauper anthems resounded, a shared joy connected me to the women around, transcending worries. The bar’s foundation was woven with stories of love, unity, and camaraderie, tales of soulmates formed within its embrace. Conversations in the restroom queue, amidst charmingly quirky toilets, unveiled a rich tapestry of experiences, underscoring the bar’s indispensable role as an LGBTQ+ hub of life and love. This experience left an indelible mark, a heartfelt testament to the potency of lesbian bars in fostering community and connection.

As we contemplate a progressive future, acknowledging that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and representation continues is imperative. The notion that we’ve outgrown the need for lesbian bars belies the ongoing struggles faced by many gay women, particularly those outside the mainstream narrative. These spaces remain indispensable for individuals grappling with identity, navigating self-discovery, or seeking refuge from a world that may not fully embrace them.

In a society still grappling with bigotry, discrimination, and gender bias, lesbian bars serve as poignant reminders of the work ahead. They affirm a lesbian’s right to exist unapologetically, symbolizing unity and resilience against a sometimes-hostile world.

In our pursuit of progress, safeguarding safe spaces is paramount. Lesbian bars are not relics of the past; they embody the ongoing journey towards equality and acceptance. As we forge a more inclusive future, we must ensure these spaces flourish and evolve, not just for today but for generations to come. Our commitment to the legacy of lesbian bars is a commitment to the spirit of love, community, and authenticity that they’ve nurtured for decades.

Here’s a list of NYC lesbian bars that readers can support:

Cubbyhole- Nestled in a neighborhood rich with LGBTQ+ venues, Cubbyhole stands out as a charming lesbian dive bar in the West Village. The bar’s quirky decor, including paper Chinese lanterns and flying polka-dotted fish, sets a welcoming atmosphere. The main draw, however, is the friendly crowd that gathers to sing along to top-notch jukebox tunes. With a cash-only policy and an ATM inside, Cubbyhole retains its genuine and down-to-earth vibe.

Ginger’s Bar- Located in Brooklyn’s Kings County, Ginger’s Bar is a haven for women, trans, and nonbinary individuals. While women-loving women dominate the scene, this lesbian-owned establishment warmly welcomes people of all gender and sexual identities. The bar boasts a beautiful back garden, a perfect spot for enjoying warm weather. Visitors can shoot pool in the back room, play DJ at the jukebox, or simply revel in the inclusive ambiance.

The Bush- Situated in Bushwick, The Bush is a grassroots project born from the passion of local lesbian bar enthusiasts. As Bushwick’s only lesbian bar, it exudes a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Espresso martinis and classic cocktails grace the bar’s menu, while disco balls set the stage for dancing to DJ tunes. Whether enjoying Martini Tuesdays or Slutty Punch Wednesdays, visitors can indulge in both drinks and community.

Maite- More than just a restaurant, Maite is a proudly lesbian-owned European-style Colombian establishment in Bushwick. While offering an inviting bar space, it’s known for hosting an array of queer events, including comedy nights, vinyl nights, drag brunch parties, and more. The space is uniquely adorned with lesbian paraphernalia, creating an eccentric ambiance that speaks to its inclusive nature.

Henrietta Hudson- For three decades, Henrietta Hudson has been a beloved lesbian-owned and operated establishment in the heart of the West Village. With its diverse and eclectic crowd, this bar has become a staple of the LGBTQ+ scene. DJs keep the party alive until 4am on weekends, and the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying drinks and mingling. Adjacent to the bar is a covered street structure, providing ample space for everyone to gather.

Oddly Enough- Proudly embracing the tagline “A queer space for all,” Oddly Enough is an upscale cocktail bar and gastropub in Bed-Stuy. Known for its lesbian following and ownership, this bar sets itself apart with its chic menu and sophisticated offerings. From brown butter sage deviled eggs to natural wines, craft cocktails, and mocktails, Oddly Enough provides a space for upscale enjoyment. A portion of its proceeds each month goes towards LGBTQ charities, highlighting its commitment to the community.