In a joint message, the owners shared that closing the establishment was a difficult decision made with heavy hearts. They expressed gratitude for the community’s support and reiterated the belief that Philadelphia benefits from more women-, queer-, and BIPOC-owned businesses. The final open days for patrons to enjoy the space were scheduled for Friday, October 16; Saturday, October 17; and Sunday, October 18, marking a last chance for regulars and supporters to visit.
Questions have arisen about why the bar, which had a strong start, is closing. Internal tensions reportedly contributed to the decision. Former staff members have brought forward allegations spanning workplace culture and treatment, including claims of transphobia, misogyny, and retaliation. An ex-manager and bartender alleged such issues, which led to her dismissal for reasons not publicly clarified. Her social media posts drew attention and support from several event partners. A second former employee, who is biracial and bisexual and also undergoing cancer treatment, filed a complaint with the city’s Equal Employment Opportunity Commission asserting an abrupt firing in April of the current year.
The bar disputes these claims, stating that the former employee was terminated due to performance-related reasons. The former staff member maintains that the dismissal was tied to her complaints about the venue’s culture. The owner publicly refuted the broader allegations about the workplace environment. Additional discussions on the platform Reddit raised concerns about financial management within the business, including payroll, though the bar asserted that staff wages were current and that payroll records had been provided to the city’s Department of Labor. A separate post described a former general manager as a demanding leader who believed the venue needed more male staff; that manager later resigned.
These reported issues, among others, are cited as factors leading to the upcoming closure. Yet, at the outset, the owner’s intent was to create a safe, inclusive space where people from various communities could watch sports and share entertainment. The concept grew from a personal experience of feeling unwelcome at a straight sports bar when attempting to enjoy a women’s World Cup event, which inspired the idea of a dedicated inclusive venue. The business was launched to honor Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transgender activist who played a pivotal role in LGBTQ+ rights, serving as a tribute to her legacy.
After just over a year of operation, the venue is ending its chapter while continuing to reflect on its mission and the conversations it sparked. The closure marks a significant moment for Philadelphia’s nightlife and sports culture, highlighting ongoing discussions about inclusivity, workplace culture, and community safety in entrepreneurship.
