AI Image
Massachusetts lesbian bar nearly bullied out of town after lifting mask mandate for one night
New York Post • • business
Key Points:
- Massachusetts lesbian bar Last Ditch in Greenfield faced intense backlash and a boycott after lifting its Saturday mask mandate, a move intended to boost business but criticized as harmful to immunocompromised patrons.
- The bar’s decision sparked accusations of ableism and threats of violence from members of the queer community, despite masks remaining mandatory on other days and no recent local COVID cases.
- Last Ditch’s owners, struggling financially and dealing with a $50,000 loan, have seen declining patronage and mounting debts, with one owner living in her car and working multiple jobs to keep the business afloat.
- Attempts to address the controversy in a community meeting were disrupted by heated virtual comments, highlighting tensions around accessibility, race, and disability intersectionality.
- Despite efforts to revive the bar with themed events, Last Ditch remains nearly empty on Saturdays, and its future is uncertain amid ongoing financial and community challenges.
