Downtown LA's Queer Scene Faces Turbulent Times: Iconic Bars Close Amidst Change

The LGBTQ+ community in downtown Los Angeles is grappling with a bittersweet moment as beloved queer spaces face unexpected challenges. While the closure of one landmark bar stings, a new venture promises a fresh chapter in the city's vibrant nightlife. What does this shifting landscape mean for the future of queer gathering places in DTLA?

Redline's Final Curtain Call: A Decade of Community

After nearly a decade of serving as a cornerstone for queer Angelenos, Redline, the popular cocktail bar and lounge, has closed its doors. Opened as a welcoming haven for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, Redline became known for its inclusive atmosphere and lively social scene. Owner Oliver Alpuche attributes the difficult decision to a confluence of factors, starting with the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic, he explains, not only brought socioeconomic uncertainty but also disrupted the vibrant spirit of community that fueled Redline's success. Smaller crowds and reduced spending further strained the business. The closure of Bar Mattachine, another nearby queer venue, compounded the problem, leading to a noticeable decrease in foot traffic in the area. The combined impact proved too much to overcome. But, what happens now?

Kiso: A New Beacon on the Horizon

While the loss of Redline is felt deeply, Alpuche offers a glimmer of hope with the promise of a new queer nightlife center called Kiso. Still under development, Kiso is envisioned as an even larger space for dancing, drinking, and forging connections. The promise of a revitalized venue offers a sense of optimism for the future of DTLA's queer social scene.

Precinct DTLA: A Haven Under Threat

Adding to the anxieties of the community, Precinct DTLA, another prominent queer bar in downtown Los Angeles, is facing its own set of challenges. The bar has warned that it could be forced to close due to a legal battle with a former employee who is suing the company for discrimination against her as a "cisgender, heterosexual woman". Considered a haven by many in DTLA's queer community, Precinct is struggling to survive amidst the costly legal fight.

Precinct's management has stated that just a few slow weekends could be enough to permanently shutter their doors. The situation highlights the complex issues facing queer spaces today. In a world increasingly connected through smartphones and social media, are physical gathering places still as vital as they once were? And what happens when those spaces face legal or financial hurdles?

The Fight for Queer Spaces: More Than Just a Bar

The struggles faced by Precinct DTLA underscore a larger trend: the diminishing number of queer bars and gathering places. Some argue that hookup apps and social media have lessened the need for in-person spaces. However, many in the community insist that these physical venues remain crucial for fostering a sense of belonging, offering support, and celebrating queer identity. What will happen if these crucial places close down?

Why Queer Spaces Matter

• Community Building: Queer bars and clubs provide a safe space for individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences.
• Social Support: These venues offer a vital network of support, particularly for those who may not have accepting families or communities.
• Cultural Expression: Queer spaces are often hubs for artistic expression, drag performances, and other forms of queer culture.
• Political Activism: Throughout history, queer bars have served as important sites for political organizing and activism.

Losing these spaces would be a significant blow to the LGBTQ+ community, depriving them of vital resources and opportunities for connection. It's more important than ever to support local queer businesses and advocate for the preservation of these essential community hubs.

A Call to Action: Show Up and Support

The message is clear: the queer community in DTLA needs support now more than ever. By showing up, buying drinks, tipping performers, and spreading the word, individuals can help ensure that these vital spaces continue to thrive. The future of queer nightlife in downtown Los Angeles depends on the collective effort of the community and its allies. How can you help?

"This is about your local gay bar, your favorite queer venue—whatever space makes you feel seen. Show up. Buy a drink. Tip a drag queen or a go-go dancer. So come by, and keep coming."

While the closure of Redline marks the end of an era, the promise of Kiso and the ongoing fight to save Precinct DTLA represent the resilience and determination of the queer community. By actively supporting these spaces, we can ensure that downtown Los Angeles continues to be a vibrant and inclusive home for LGBTQ+ individuals for years to come.