Beyond Stonewall: Uncovering Buffalo's Vibrant LGBTQ+ History and Scene
When you think of pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history, your mind likely jumps to the Stonewall Inn in New York City. But what about the stories unfolding in other cities, the local struggles and triumphs that shaped the movement?
Let's journey to Buffalo, New York, and delve into its rich, often overlooked, LGBTQ+ past and present.
From Tiki Bars to Trailblazing Activism: Buffalo's Early Gay Scene
Before Stonewall, simply existing as an openly gay individual was an act of rebellion.
Buffalo was no exception. In an era when homosexuality was criminalized and stigmatized, gathering spaces were vital lifelines.
One such space was the Tiki Restaurant, opened by James F. Garrow in the late 1950s.
Imagine this: a coffee house, serving only turkey (and damn good coffee, according to regulars), offering a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Garrow, a charismatic figure himself, created a space where people could connect, share stories, and find solace.
Mernie Kern, a newly-out lesbian at the time, and her girlfriend, Leslie Feinberg, were among those who frequented the Tiki, drawn to its welcoming atmosphere.
But the Tiki's success attracted unwanted attention. Captain Kenneth P. Kennedy, head of the Bureau of Vice Enforcement (BVE), saw homosexuality as a moral failing and targeted establishments associated with the gay community.
Garrow, facing constant harassment and unable to secure a liquor license, eventually relocated and expanded his operation, only to face further scrutiny.
Frank Kameny's Influence and the Seeds of Resistance
Undeterred, Garrow recognized the need for organized resistance.
He reached out to Frank Kameny, a prominent gay rights activist radicalized after being fired from his government job for being gay. Kameny, a pivotal figure in the pre-Stonewall Mattachine Society, brought his experience and militant approach to Buffalo, inspiring the community to fight for their rights.
Inspired by Stonewall and fueled by local conditions, Buffalo's LGBTQ+ community began to organize.
They formed groups to protest police harassment and bar closures, with Garrow as a central figure. The risks were high, but the community was determined to create a better future for themselves.
Raids, Resistance, and the Mattachine Society of the Niagara Frontier (MSNF)
The fight was far from easy.
In January 1970, the police raided Garrow's establishment, arresting him and several patrons. But this only strengthened the community's resolve. Shortly after, Mernie Kern and a group of activists picketed City Hall, demanding an end to police harassment.
This act of defiance, though small in scale, was a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in Buffalo.
The community formally organized as the Mattachine Society of the Niagara Frontier (MSNF), solidifying their commitment to fighting for equality. While Garrow faced legal troubles and eventually left Buffalo, the MSNF continued his work, laying the foundation for future generations of LGBTQ+ activists.
Buffalo's Contemporary Gay Scene: A Thriving Community
Today, Buffalo boasts a vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ scene.
While the landscape has evolved since the days of the Tiki Restaurant, the spirit of community and resistance remains strong. You can find a variety of bars and clubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community, each with its own unique vibe.
- Frizzy's Bar & Grill: A local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse crowd.
- Q Bar: A popular spot with a lively dance floor and regular events.
- Nietzsche's: Though not exclusively a gay bar, Nietzsche's is an inclusive and welcoming space that hosts a variety of performances and events.
Beyond the Bars: Resources and Organizations
Beyond the nightlife, Buffalo offers a range of resources and organizations dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
These include:
- Pride Center of Western New York: Providing support services, advocacy, and community programming.
- Evergreen Health: Offering comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.
- University at Buffalo's LGBTQ+ Resources: Supporting LGBTQ+ students and faculty.
The Legacy Continues: Remembering the Past, Shaping the Future
Buffalo's LGBTQ+ history is a story of resilience, resistance, and community.
From the clandestine gatherings at the Tiki Restaurant to the organized activism of the MSNF, the city's LGBTQ+ pioneers paved the way for a more inclusive future. As we celebrate the progress that has been made, it's important to remember the struggles of the past and continue working towards a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear.
So, the next time you think about LGBTQ+ history, remember Buffalo.
Remember the Tiki Restaurant, Frank Kameny, Mernie Kern, and the countless individuals who fought for their rights in a city far removed from the spotlight of Stonewall. Their stories are a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of resistance.