Protests, charities and even San Diego’s first Pride were organized in the dark and dusty corners of these hubs. LGBTQ bars will always hold a sacred space in the heart of the community. “I think they’ll always have a place for gay bars,” he said.ĭetwiler said their fundamental importance is lessening because other queer activities like sports teams and coffee shop meet ups are filling that void. Unfortunately, not all of the bars survived COVID-19. Martinis Above Fourth, a lounge known for their specialty drinks and live performances, announced in October they were declaring bankruptcy. “We will never forget the amazing memories we all made together, and we hope that you will not forget us.” “Although it is a hard blow to us and the entire MA4 family, it is nothing compared to the huge number of people that have lost their lives, health or someone that they love in this pandemic,” they wrote in a Facebook post. San Diego’s Pride celebration is expected to bring out thousands and help local queer businesses get back some of the revenue COVID-19 robbed from them.Ī year and a half of isolation has people swarming the gay bars once more. Even if they don’t serve the same purpose they once did, they won’t be going away any time soon. There will always be a gay person in search of a home.
