Massachusetts lesbian bar that went viral over Covid mask backlash is closing

Massachusetts lesbian bar that went viral over covid mask backlash is closing Founded in 2025 as a community space for lesbians and local activists, the downtown Greenfield spot was one of few remaining queer venues in the region - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Already a member? Log in A Massachusetts bar that drew international attention following a dispute over its Covid face-covering policy has announced that it is preparing to close. The Last Ditch, located in downtown Greenfield, posted a message on its Instagram page saying that the business required “new owners ASAP.” The post announced that the venue was “SOFT CLOSING effective immediately, all BOOKED events will CONTINUE, otherwise we are CLOSED,” adding, “Love and solidarity to all.” Several scheduled events remain on the calendar for this week, including karaoke and an open mic night, according to the post. The venue was established in 2025 by three housemates — Asa Rosario, Jackie Matellian and Sage Territo — to address a void left by the recent closures of two other local queer establishments. The owners described the bar on its website as an oasis created for lesbians, as well as “transsexuals, gender freaks, workers and their friends,” to provide safe and happy drinking in the city of about 17,000 residents. “We have put our lives on hold to foster networks of care, resources, and a home base for organizing,” the founders wrote. “It’s time we pass it on.” The bar's profile rose in September after a report published by The Boston Globe detailed internal conflict over its Covid protocols. In an effort to boost revenue, the owners decided to relax mandatory face coverings by making masks optional on Saturday nights. Opponents quickly criticized the decision on social media, arguing that the bar was turning its back on immunocompromised patrons and failing to remain accessible. Other commentators began ridiculing the customers and their Covid worries. The coverage went so viral that talent agency UTA, which represents The Boston Globe, confirmed to The Independent that it had fielded inquiries from Hollywood studios regarding potential TV, film and documentary adaptations of the article. Although the coverage brought dozens of new customers to the bar’s first mask-optional Saturday, the boost in business was not enough to keep it open. Greenfield Community and Economic Development Director Amy Cahillane told The New York Times on Monday that “it is always a shame to lose a small business.” Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments