The future of New York City’s Stonewall Inn appears to be in jeopardy.
Known for being the first national gay historic landmark and the birthplace of the modern-day LGBTQ rights movement, like many bars and restaurants, has been closed for in-person dining throughout the pandemic. Despite New York City opening outdoor dining for restaurants, the Stonewall Inn fears that the restrictions will affect their business.
On June 13, the Stonewall Inn launched a GoFundMe to help keep the bar afloat as New York City heads towards COVID-19 recovery.
“The Stonewall Inn faces an uncertain future and we are in need of community support,” the GoFundMe says. “The road to recovery from the COVID 19 pandemic will be long and we need to continue to safeguard this vital piece of living history for the LGBTQ community and the global human rights movement and we now must ask for your help to save one of the LGBTQ+ communities most iconic institutions and to keep that history alive.”
At the time of publication, the GoFundMe has reached nearly $6,000 of its $50,000 goal. Another GoFundMe page was set up for the staff of the Stonewall Inn back in April of this year, and has raised over $20,000 with a goal of $60,000.
“We look forward to the day we can welcome all of you back, raise a glass and celebrate the return to our normal lives. Until then, stay safe, take care of your loved ones and be strong.” the GoFundMe reads.
In 1969, the Stonewall Inn was the sight of the historic riots by members of the LGBTQ community against a police raid that took place in the early morning hours on June 28 of that year. The events that took place during the riots eventually led to the first gay pride parades in the United States as well as other countries across the world.
amNewYork Metro has reached out to the Stonewall Inn for a comment.
