Queer Women's Sports Bar Marsha's to Debut on South Street in Queen Village, Philadelphia
In the vibrant city of Philadelphia, a new establishment is set to make a significant impact on the local LGBTQ+ community. Marsha's, a queer women-focused sports bar, is set to open its doors at 430 South Street, South Philadelphia, on Friday at 4 p.m.
The brainchild of owner Chivonn Anderson, Marsha's is named after Marsha P. Johnson, an iconic figure in LGBTQ+ history. For Anderson, the opening of Marsha's is a personal milestone, as she finds deep personal significance in the South Street location. As a teenager, South Street was a place of comfort and self-discovery for her.
Marsha's is designed to be a welcoming, inclusive space that highlights local sports and centres queer women. Whitney Zimmerman, the head bartender at Marsha's, believes that Philadelphia has long been missing a space like this. She explains, "Marsha's is more than just a bar; it's a community hub, a safe space, and a place of celebration for queer women."
The decline in the number of lesbian bars is a global issue, with factors like rising rents, gentrification, and the COVID-19 pandemic contributing to their decline. Currently, there are just 38 lesbian bars left in the United States, according to The Lesbian Bar Project. The opening of Marsha's is a response to a growing need in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly among queer women.
Josh Sanders, a journalist who joined our News Philadelphia family as a reporter and multi-skilled journalist in August 2023, shares Anderson's excitement about the new bar. Sanders notes, "Marsha's is not just a business; it's a movement. It's a testament to the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ+ community."
Anderson sees Marsha's as a way to honour the founding mothers of the queer LGBTQ movement. She hopes that Marsha's will be a place of belonging, celebration, and freedom for future generations. Sanders, who is also an out queer woman, echoes this sentiment, stating, "Marsha's is a beacon of hope and a symbol of progress for the LGBTQ+ community."
The grand opening of Marsha's will feature local teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies. Marsha's will showcase these teams, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and excitement. Zimmerman believes that Marsha's will be a significant space for young queer individuals, potentially shaping their experiences for the rest of their lives.
As the city of Philadelphia continues to evolve, Marsha's stands as a testament to the power of community, inclusivity, and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. For Anderson, Zimmerman, and the countless individuals who will find a home at Marsha's, the bar is more than just a place to gather; it's a place to belong.
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