Cheers to Change Promoting Inclusion in New York City Bars

Are you tired of going to bars in New York City where you feel out of place or unwelcome? Well, it's time to raise a glass to change! Several bars in the city are taking steps to promote inclusion and create a more welcoming environment for everyone. From design changes to inclusive policies, these bars are leading the way in making New York City a more inclusive and diverse nightlife destination.

One bar that is leading the charge is The Rosemont in Williamsburg. With its chic and modern interior, The Rosemont is not only a trendy spot for a night out, but also a place where everyone feels welcome. The bar has made it a priority to create a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, hosting drag shows and queer parties that celebrate diversity and acceptance.

But it's not just bars in trendy neighborhoods that are embracing change. The Folly, located in the heart of the Financial District, has also made inclusivity a top priority. With its stunning rooftop views and extensive drink menu, The Folly attracts a diverse crowd. The bar has implemented inclusive policies, such as gender-neutral bathrooms and a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination. Cheers to The Folly for being a leader in inclusivity!

Speaking of inclusivity, have you ever wondered what it feels like to be a person of color in a predominantly white bar? The Alibi is a bar in Harlem that is working to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and included. With its vibrant decor and diverse clientele, The Alibi is breaking down barriers and promoting diversity in New York City's nightlife scene.

Another bar that is promoting inclusion is C'mon Everybody in Bed-Stuy. This bar and live performance venue is dedicated to hosting events that celebrate marginalized communities. From drag shows to benefit concerts, C'mon Everybody is using its platform to uplift and empower underrepresented voices.

Are you a person with disabilities who has felt excluded from the nightlife scene? Good Night Sonny, a bar in the Lower East Side, is leading the way in creating a more accessible environment. The bar has implemented wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and trained staff to ensure that everyone can enjoy a night out without barriers.

What about bars that are promoting inclusivity through their drinks menu? Brooklyn Brewery has partnered with the non-profit organization Non-Binary Beer Club to create a beer that celebrates and supports the LGBTQ+ community. The beer, aptly named "Cheers to You," donates a portion of its proceeds to LGBTQ+ charities and organizations.

Finally, let's not forget about the importance of representation in the nightlife scene. People from all walks of life should be able to see themselves reflected in the bars they visit. That's why bars like The Stonewall Inn, an iconic LGBTQ+ bar in Greenwich Village, are so important. The Stonewall Inn has been a symbol of queer liberation since the 1969 Stonewall riots, and it continues to be a place where LGBTQ+ individuals can gather and celebrate their identities.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

Creating a welcoming environment starts with the physical space of a bar. Bars like The Rosemont and The Folly have invested in trendy and inclusive interiors that make everyone feel comfortable and at home. They have moved away from the traditional bar aesthetic and instead embrace a design that appeals to a diverse range of people.

But it's not just about the decor; it's about the policies and practices as well. Bars like The Alibi and C'mon Everybody have implemented policies that prioritize inclusivity and zero tolerance for discrimination. These policies send a clear message that everyone is welcome and valued at their establishments.

Another important aspect of creating a welcoming environment is representation. It's crucial for people to see themselves reflected in the staff, performers, and even the drinks menu. Bars like Good Night Sonny and Brooklyn Brewery are leading the way in this regard, ensuring that people from marginalized communities have a presence and a voice in the nightlife scene.

Empowering Marginalized Communities

Empowering marginalized communities is a key component of promoting inclusion in bars. Places like The Alibi and C'mon Everybody are not just inclusive spaces, they are platforms for marginalized voices to be heard and celebrated. By hosting events and performances that highlight the achievements and talents of underrepresented communities, these bars are creating opportunities for empowerment and visibility.

Additionally, partnering with non-profit organizations like Non-Binary Beer Club, as Brooklyn Brewery has done, allows bars to support and uplift marginalized communities through their product offerings. By purchasing a beer like "Cheers to You," customers are not only enjoying a delicious beverage, but also contributing to important LGBTQ+ causes.

Breaking Down Barriers

Bars like The Alibi and Good Night Sonny are going above and beyond to break down barriers and create a more inclusive nightlife scene. For individuals with disabilities, navigating a typical bar setting can be challenging. However, establishments like Good Night Sonny have made accessibility a priority, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a night out without facing physical barriers.

Furthermore, The Alibi is breaking down socio-economic barriers by providing a space in Harlem where everyone, regardless of race or background, can come together and enjoy themselves. By creating a diverse and inclusive environment, The Alibi is fostering community and connection.

Celebrating Diversity

Celebrating diversity is at the heart of promoting inclusion in bars. The Stonewall Inn, a historic LGBTQ+ bar, is an embodiment of this celebration. It stands as a symbol of queer liberation and continues to be a gathering place for individuals to celebrate their identities. Bars like The Rosemont and The Folly also celebrate diversity by hosting events and parties that specifically cater to and embrace the LGBTQ+ community.

Furthermore, bars like C'mon Everybody celebrate diversity by featuring a wide range of performers, musicians, and artists from different backgrounds. Through these events, they are not only providing entertainment, but also showcasing and celebrating the talents of marginalized communities.

Conclusion

With all these bars leading the way, it's clear that change is happening in New York City's nightlife scene. From creating welcoming environments to empowering marginalized communities, these bars are setting a new standard for inclusivity. Cheers to the progress being made and let's continue raising a glass to change!