Last Ditch Bar and Arts Venue, a lesbian‑focused bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, announced on Instagram that it would make masks optional on Saturday nights. The policy change was intended to increase patronage and help the financially struggling business stay afloat.

Community backlash

Several members of the city’s queer community reacted angrily, accusing the owners of endangering disabled and immunocompromised patrons. Commenters on the bar’s social‑media post used language such as “mass disabling event” and called the decision “eugenicist” while some even threatened violence against the venue.

One user wrote, “I hope your venue gets firebombed for robbing my fellow immunocompromised people of their Saturday plans just to scrape extra revenue from ablists.” Another said, “People like you kill disabled people in the name of your own leisure and convenience.” The criticism extended to the bar’s online post, which critics said lacked alt‑text for visually impaired readers, further indicating a lack of accessibility.

Business context

Last Ditch has long operated under an inclusive business model that promises “Nobody will be barred from entry due to lack of funds.” However, the venue has struggled financially for months. Owner Jackie Matellian, who lives in her truck and works four jobs, disclosed a $50,000 loan and falling behind on rent. The bar’s landlord is demanding $3,900 by the end of September.

In an effort to generate revenue, the owners decided to relax the mask rule on Saturdays, allowing patrons to remove face coverings unless they were actively eating or drinking. The move was framed as a temporary measure to keep the bar open.

Response from management

After the backlash, Last Ditch issued an apology, stating, “We are sorry for our passive and dismissive tone of our change to the norms and schedule impacting the most intersectional of us. We understand everyone faces different intersections and we are always working to consider all needs fully.” The bar also held a community meeting on September 11, during which critics voiced concerns about the presence of a white therapist acting as mediator, alleging racial insensitivity and questioning the safety of the setting.

Matellian broke down in tears during the meeting, explaining that she took over daily operations after the other owners stepped back and that she is struggling to keep the business viable. She emphasized that the bar was never a passion project but a means to support friends and the local queer community.

Current status

Despite the policy change and promotional drink deals, Saturday nights remain nearly empty. Patrons suggested alternative events, such as a Lady Gaga‑themed party, but the bartender dismissed the idea, calling the artist “Zionist.” The bar continues to seek ways to attract customers while navigating the criticism and financial pressures.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.