Massachusetts Lesbian Bar Faces Backlash After Temporarily Lifting Mask Mandate
A lesbian bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, named 'The Last Ditch,' has encountered significant online criticism after announcing it would lift its mask mandate one night a week. Previously, the establishment required patrons to wear a 'well-fitted KN-95' mask at all times. The decision to introduce mask-optional Saturdays was made in an attempt to attract more customers and address financial difficulties, as reported by The Boston Globe. The bar, which initially aimed to be an inclusive space for 'dykes, transsexuals, gender freaks, workers, and their friends,' had fallen behind on bills and one of its original owners, Jackie Matellian, is struggling with a $50,000 business loan. The policy change, announced on Instagram on August 31, was met with accusations of 'mass disabling' and 'eugenics' from online commenters. A community meeting held via Zoom to discuss the controversy also saw strong opposition.