Last Ditch, a Lesbian Bar Whose Mask Policy Made It Famous, Will Close
The Massachusetts bar, which catered to lesbians, lifted its Covid mask requirement once a week to attract more patrons. The decision brought criticism and national attention, but did not save the business.
Last Ditch, a lesbian bar in Massachusetts that gained national attention for its mask policy during the Covid-19 pandemic, has announced it will close. The bar had implemented a unique policy where it required patrons to wear masks every day except Sundays, when masks were optional. This decision was made in an effort to attract more customers, but it ultimately did not succeed in saving the business.
The bar's mask policy sparked controversy and debate, with some praising its efforts to prioritize customer comfort and others criticizing it for being inconsistent. Despite the national attention and publicity, Last Ditch was unable to overcome its financial struggles. The closure of Last Ditch is a significant loss for the LGBTQ+ community, which has seen a decline in safe spaces and gathering places in recent years.
The closure of Last Ditch serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community, during the pandemic. As the hospitality industry continues to recover, it's worth watching how other LGBTQ+ bars and businesses adapt to changing circumstances and customer expectations. Additionally, the impact of the pandemic on small businesses and community gathering places will likely continue to be felt, and it will be important to monitor how these businesses and communities respond and evolve in the coming months.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. VPNews adds analysis for general news readers.