edmonton gay bar

Edmonton's Enduring LGBTQ+ Spaces: A Look at the Past, Present, and Future

For decades, gay bars have served as more than just places to grab a drink. They've been vital community hubs, safe havens, and powerful symbols of resilience for the LGBTQ+ community. But what does the landscape of these spaces look like in Edmonton today, and what role do they play in a rapidly changing world?

A History Etched in Basements and Back Alleys

Rewind the clock 50 years. The fight for LGBTQ+ rights was largely underground. Darrin Hagen, a founding member of the drag group Guys in Disguise, recalls a time when gay bars intentionally set up shop where no one else wanted to be - often in basements or tucked away in less desirable areas. Think of it: spaces carved out of necessity, born from a need for safety and belonging in a society that often shunned them.

One such example is Club 70. Conceived in the wake of landmark legislation aimed at decriminalizing homosexual acts, it found its home in the basement of a Greek restaurant. The name was a nod to the era of change, but its journey was short-lived. After a few weekends, the owners were locked out, forced to sue to reclaim their sound system. The story highlights a crucial truth: the path to acceptance wasn't, and still isn't, linear.

Flashback, another Edmonton staple, offered a refuge where community members could gather without fear. These weren't just party spots; they were lifelines. Why were they so essential? Because outside those walls, LGBTQ+ individuals faced discrimination, harassment, and even the risk of police intervention.

"Gay bars opened in places no one else wanted to be." - Darrin Hagen

Bridging the Divide: Acknowledging Past Wrongs

Murray Billett, a former member of the Edmonton Police Commission, recognized the problem early on. As a gay man, he helped establish a liaison committee, seeking to bridge the gap between the LGBTQ+ community and law enforcement. The initial goal? To end the criminalization of a lifestyle that had, at least on paper, been legalized. It's a stark reminder of the gap between legal rights and lived reality.

The Edmonton Police eventually issued a public apology for their past treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. For Hagen, this apology represented more than just the actions of the police; it was a symbolic acknowledgment from society as a whole. It was a long-overdue step, but did it erase the scars of the past? That's a question the community continues to grapple with.

Evolution and Adaptation: The Modern Gay Bar

Today, Edmonton's LGBTQ+ scene is evolving. Rob Browatzke, owner of Evolution Wonderlounge, emphasizes the continuing importance of gay bars, even as societal attitudes shift. But the role of these spaces is becoming more nuanced.

Evolution Wonderlounge, currently the city's only dedicated gay bar, aims to be "a little bit of everything." Located in the Boardwalk building on 103 Street, it hosts drag shows, burlesque nights, and community events. In a world where LGBTQ+ individuals are more visible and accepted, what does it mean to be "everything" to a diverse community?

The cancellation of the Pride festival in recent years, following protests demanding greater inclusivity for people of colour, underscored the ongoing challenges. For Browatzke, it highlighted the continuing need for safe and affirming spaces like Evolution. When the parade was cancelled, Evolution hosted its own street party, even suspending its liquor license for a family-friendly drag show. It was a powerful statement: even in the absence of a large-scale event, the community would find ways to celebrate and connect.

Expansion and New Beginnings: EVO and the Future

In a sign of growth and renewed energy, Edmonton briefly had two gay bars operating simultaneously for the first time in nearly a decade. A new location called EVO, situated on Jasper Avenue and 120 Street, offered a full kitchen, expanded programming, and improved accessibility. While the original Evolution Wonderlounge location remained open until the end of October, the opening of EVO signaled a vibrant future for Edmonton's LGBTQ+ nightlife.

Unfortunately, Evolution Wonderlounge has also been a target of vandalism, a stark reminder that homophobia and hate still exist. Despite these challenges, the community remains resilient, committed to creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and safe. How can we ensure that these spaces not only survive but thrive in the years to come?

Key Takeaways: Beyond the Rainbow Flag

The story of Edmonton's gay bars is a story of struggle, resilience, and hope. As the community evolves, these spaces will continue to adapt, providing a vital anchor in a constantly changing world. What role will you play in ensuring these spaces remain vibrant and welcoming for generations to come?