#30DaysofPride Day 5

I am participating in a 30 Days of Pride Challenge and thought that these stories might be an inspiration to you whether you fall somewhere on the rainbow, or just want to live your life more authentically.

Before the apps there were the bars. Gay bars were more than a place to drink, but a place of community.

In the outside world, many of us had to conform, but in the bars, we were free to be who we wanted to be. (not to mention not having to worry about being beaten up if you hit on someone)

I was fortunate enough to run two bars in my life so far – One X Warehouse Dance Club in Detroit and 12th Air Command in Philadelphia. It was amazing being in the hub of it all, coming up with event ideas, and getting more than a few perks.
I got to hobnob with the change-makers in ways that I never had before – mayors, governors, senators, other community leaders, community activists and often got to pick who and what we supported.
I even got to throw out the first pitch of the gay softball league in Philly.
All – in – all these were some of the best times and the connections I made still live on.

Till tomorrow…

You are loved,
Jeff