From Slate Magazine · Christina Cauterucci · · 1m 20s
Lesbian Bar Mask Policy Sparks Viral Backlash
Boston bar's mask policy shift becomes weaponized by right-wing figures.
In brief
Boston bar's mask policy shift becomes weaponized by right-wing figures. Last Ditch bar's mask policy change sparked viral backlash that right-wing figures weaponized to paint all LGBTQ+ people as antisocial. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
Mask Policy Shift
Last Ditch bar announced Saturday nights would be masks optional.
“masks optional”
Viral Story
Boston Globe feature became top story of 2026 after viral backlash.
“top story of the year”
Online Backlash
Sen. Ted Cruz reposted screenshots calling leftism a mental disease.
“leftism is a mental disease”
Community Impact
Last Ditch co-founders stepped up after two LGBTQ+ bars closed.
“only lesbian bar in lesbianville usa”
Perfectionism
Online critics demanded absolute perfection from bar operator.
“we are expecting too much from our local community”
Safety Concerns
Bar operator accused of killing people via infection spread.
“i hope your venue gets firebombed for robbing my fellow immunocompromised people”
Community Meeting
Bar hosted multi-hour meeting where they were called racist.
“we are expecting too much from our local community”
Local Context
Two LGBTQ+ bars closed in 2024 due to economic pressures.
“only lesbian bar in lesbianville usa”
Community Response
Rene Pellissier praised bar's idealistic approach.
“run by several well-meaning queer people in their early- to mid-20s”
Internet Distortion
Keyboard warriors from outside town targeted bar.
“i don't even live in your town”
Local Reality
Greenfield has one lesbian bar for 17,700 residents.
“17,700 residents”
Systemic Neglect
LGBTQ+ people face systemic neglect and targeted attacks.
“systemic neglect and targeted attacks”
Community Value
Bar provides creative and social opportunities for marginalized groups.
“rich in opportunities for creativity and delight”
What Happens Next
Bar continues operating despite online hostility.
“they deserve better than what they're getting”
The big picture
Last Ditch bar's mask policy change sparked viral backlash that right-wing figures weaponized to paint all LGBTQ+ people as antisocial.
