When the lockdown order closed San Francisco’s LGBTQ bars and clubs, many lost an important source of community.
While shelter-in-place orders have been difficult for everyone, the closure of LGBTQ spaces has had a special poignance for many.
“For decades, gay or queer bars or nightclubs have been one of the only places that a lot of people feel safe in and can convene together and be their authentic self,” says Terra Haywood, one of the worker-owners of the collectively owned Stud Bar in San Francisco. “I think it was scary for a lot of people to think about losing a space like that.”
The show is one of many queer-friendly events that have gone online. Those looking for a streaming dance party or drag show on a Friday night have options.
But with brick and mortar establishments still shuttered many are worried about the financial future of San Francisco's physical LGBTQ nightlife scene.
“I’m hoping that some of our institutions will make it through,” says Heywood. “But I’m sure not all of them will.”