Massachusetts lesbian bar faces boycott after ending Saturday mask rule

Last Ditch Bar and Arts Venue, a lesbian-focused bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, removed its mask mandate for Saturday evenings in an effort to boost declining revenue. The policy change sparked criticism from some patrons who said the decision endangered disabled and immunocompromised customers.

Several commenters on the bar’s social-media announcement called the move "ableist" and expressed anger, with one user writing, "I hope your venue gets firebombed for robbing my fellow immunocompromised people of their Saturday plans just to scrape extra revenue from ablists," and another stating, "People like you kill disabled people in the name of your own leisure and convenience."

The bar had previously required masks except while eating or drinking, a rule intended to protect vulnerable patrons. Owner Jackie Matellian, who has been handling daily operations while dealing with personal financial strain, said the change was made "with love" to keep the business afloat.

Following the backlash, the establishment issued an apology, acknowledging that its communication could have been more inclusive. A community meeting held on September 11 featured heated discussion, with participants raising concerns about the presence of a white therapist acting as mediator and questioning the bar’s handling of accessibility issues.

Despite the policy shift and promotional efforts such as drink specials and DJ events, Saturday attendance remained low. Matellian disclosed that the bar is behind on rent and owes $3,900 to its landlord, while expressing that operating the venue was not her original passion.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within the local queer community over health safety measures and the financial viability of niche nightlife venues.