LGBTQ Atlanta

PHOTO BY ISTOCK.COM

Our open arms and hearts will make you feel right at home! Welcome to Atlanta, y’all! We’ll make you feel right at home!

We’re so happy you’re here! Deemed the gay mecca of the South, Atlanta has been one of the crown jewels of equality and acceptance in the South and country for years. This culture of love and acceptance has been carefully cultivated, though, after a history of LGBTQ activism.

The fight started more than 50 years ago outside of the Stonewall Inn in New York City, where brave queer people stood up against homophobia, transphobia, and state-sanctioned violence. Not too long after, activists and protestors began organizing right here in Atlanta and demanding equality. It is because of their hard work, bravery, and dedication that we as a city are now able to tout LGBTQ-friendly culture, space, and community — but the work is far from over.

Queer activists, particularly Black activists and other people of color, in Atlanta have made Atlanta — and Georgia — a household name nationwide with their dedication to not only LGBTQ equality, but racial equality, gender equality, voting rights, etc. As you peruse both this travel guide and our beautiful city, know that both are what they are only because of the work of these individuals, now and throughout history.

Georgia Voice is proud to produce Destination Gay Atlanta, a travel guide with everything you need to know about exploring gay Atlanta: where to shop, what to eat, where to stay, what to do… everything. Due to last year’s COVID-19 pandemic, we had to take a break, but we’re back and better than ever! We’re dedicated to providing Atlanta’s visitors and locals alike with the most up-to-date and LGBTQ-friendly guide to exploring our beautiful city.

For those new here, Georgia Voice is the oldest and largest LGBTQ publication in Atlanta with roots tracing back to the ‘80s, a period rife with LGBTQ activism. When this publication was launched, it was with the mission of fighting to be a voice of gay Atlanta, and we continue this mission today. We pride ourselves on creating a safe haven for all Georgians and those around the region and country who want to experience a taste of Southern hospitality without fear.

As Georgia Voice continues to cover the issues affecting our community, locally and nationally, we’d like to take on a journey back in time to see how our state and city have evolved over the years.

Georgia’s LGBTQ History In 1817, Georgia enacted our first anti-sodomy law. A few years later, in 1833, the law was expanded to outlaw “carnal knowledge and connection against the order of nature by man with man, or in the same unnatural manner with woman.” The punishment? A sentence of life imprisonment with labor.

The law existed for more than 50 years before the U.S. Supreme Court heard and overturned Georgia’s first-ever conviction of sodomy in 1884. However, the law was still in place. In 1949, the penalty was reduced to one to 10 years in prison, something Michael Hardwick faced

after being caught having consensual sex with his partner after the police raided his home on a warrant for failing to appear in court on a charge of public drinking. The warrant was deemed invalid because Hardwick had already paid the fine, and Hardwick challenged the anti-sodomy law in court, deeming it an infringement on his right to privacy.

In 1986 the Supreme Court finally ruled in Powell v. State that an individual’s right to privacy trumped the law, effectively making homosexuality legal in Georgia. After fear of arrest was eliminated for LGBTQ Georgians, LGBTQ presence in Atlanta and beyond grew exponentially — and with it, LGBTQ activism.

Here’s a quick look at more of Atlanta’s LGBTQ history:

1971: The first Pride Parade, organized by the Georgia Gay Liberation Front, takes to the streets.

1972: The Metropolitan Community Church, which works specifically to reach out to the LGBTQ community, establishes itself in the Atlanta area.

1972: Mayor Sam Massell appoints the first-ever community liaison, Charlie St. John, an activist and journalist working for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

1974: Bill Smith, a local activist, founds the Atlanta Barb, the first publication for, by, and about our community.

1976: The Atlanta Gay Center is opened.

1978: Anti-gay activist and national celebrity Anita Bryant speaks to an anti-LGBTQ crowd as she plays host to the Southern Baptist Convention and its parishioners. The event, drawing a crowd of 4,000, is held at the Georgia World Congress Center.

1982: The first official proclamation for Pride is issued by the city government of Atlanta.

1983: The Atlanta Campaign for Human Rights is established. It’s now known as Georgia Equality.

1984: Mayor Andrew Young inaugurates the first Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights Day.

1985: Congregation Bet Havarim, the first LGBTQ welcoming synagogue, opens its doors.

1988: Our predecessor, Southern Voice, begins its historic LGBTQ coverage of Atlanta and the surrounding area.

1988: Mayor Maynard Jackson becomes first Atlanta mayor to attend Pride.

1992: Emory University establishes its Gay and Lesbian Student Life office.

1993: Fulton County is the first country in the state to issue an official Pride proclamation, joining Atlanta.

1996: The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Visitors Center gives the city an Olympics-worthy campaign to attract LGBTQ tourism to our welcoming city, starting with the games. 2000: Karla Drenner becomes first openly LGBTQ member of the Georgia House of Representatives.

2001: Cathy Woolard becomes the first openly LGBTQ City Council President of Atlanta.

2003: Fulton County becomes the first county in the state to pass domestic-partnership registration for county residents and municipal employees in same-sex relationships.

2004: The passage of a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage stymies the recognition of same-sex relationships by our state.

2005: The General Assembly passes a law which legalizes the ability of counties to establish domestic-partnership benefits for county employees.

2007: The city-county government of Athens legalizes health benefits for unmarried domestic partners.

2010: Simone Bell becomes first openly lesbian African American woman to be elected to the Georgia General Assembly.

2011: House member Rashad Taylor comes out, becoming the first male, openly gay member of the Georgia House of Representatives.

2015: The Eleventh Circuit Court ruled in Glenn v. Brumby that firing someone based on gender-nonconformity violates the Constitution’s prohibition on sex discrimination, giving trans and gender nonconforming employees legal protections in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida.

2016: Gov. Nathan Deal vetoes House Bill 757, legislation that made it through both bodies of our state government. The bill would have allowed state adoption agencies to deny children to same-sex couples on religious grounds.

2018: The Senate passes SB 375, which calls for allowing private adoption agencies receiving state funds to deny adoptions for certain couples or individual parents based on sincerely held religious beliefs. It does not make it through the House.

2020: Gov. Brian Kemp signs HB 426 into law, which mandates enhanced sentencing for people convicted of targeting a victim due to their “actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, mental disability, or physical disability.” It is the first bill passed in Georgia protecting LGBTQ people from hate crimes.

2020: Kim Jackson becomes the first openly LGBTQ politician to be elected to the Georgia Senate.

Now that you’ve got a crash course in Georgia LGBTQ history, it’s time to see what Atlanta and our surrounding communities have to offer while you’re here in our great city!

LGBTQ+ OWNED BUSINESSES IN ATLANTA YOU SHOULD KNOW

BY ALECIA ZACKERY

Atlanta is one of the most influential cities of the South, celebrating Pride three times throughout the year. Whether you are visiting for National Pride Month in June, Black Gay Pride during Labor Day weekend or the annual Atlanta Pride Festival in October, you’ll be interested in the top Atlanta LGBTQ+ owned businesses, restaurants, merchants and attractions. Here are some places you don’t want to miss.

The status and hours of the businesses listed below may vary due to COVID-19. Please check the business website for the most up-to-date information.

RESTAURANTS

Baker Dude Bakery Cafe

Since 2012, Orran Booher’s Black-owned business boasts fresh French and Italian desserts, crafty cakes and bou-cakes, with a healthy lunch menu including specialty items for all to enjoy. Indulge in one of these signature more-thanjust-frosting treats: almondpecan carrot cake, what the fudge brownie or chocolate marshmallow rainbow cupcake. Where: Grant Park, The Beacon Atlanta and West Midtown, Chattahoochee Food Works

Georgia Beer Garden

Sweet Auburn District’s classic beer garden draws the most excitement on Atlanta United FC game days, hosting watch parties and pouring from more than 20 taps of locally brewed beer. Swing by with a friend to experience Downtown’s largest backyard patio with feel-good music. It’s open as late as 2:30 a.m. Where: Downtown, Edgewood Avenue

Guac y Margys

Guac y Margys, known for its guacamole, is a go-to spot for a variety of tacos, fresh margaritas (#NoMix) and giving back to the Atlanta community. Located on the Atlanta BeltLine, it has been dubbed as “Atlanta’s Margarita Bar,” creating a buzz around the most-sought-after Strawberry Pineapple Holla! and Forever, Forever Ever refreshers. Where: Inman Park, near Krog Street Market

Baker Dude’s One Love Cake

MetroFresh

Mitchell Anderson’s Midtown fast-casual cafe has focused on providing the freshest locally sourced food for breakfast, lunch and dinner for more than 16 years. Be on the lookout for occasional music events hosted by Mitchell’s husband, Richie Arpino, at Richie’s Wine Bar (inside MetroFresh). Where: Midtown

All amigos are welcome at No Mas! Cantina where authentic Mexican cuisine is served in one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods. Part cafe (ADios Cafe Chocolate & Espresso Bar), part Artisan Market, there’s plenty of food and shopping to take in before and after your dining experience.

Where: Downtown, Castleberry Hill

Ria’s Bluebird

Because breakfast and lunch specials are served all day at Ria’s Bluebird diner, there’s no excuse not to meet with friends for brunch any day of the week. Take in the scenery with views of Historic Oakland Cemetery, and try patio dining in the eclectic garden oasis for an allaround local experience.

Where: Eastside, Grant Park

Roxx Tavern

Whether you’re in the mood for an omelet for Sunday brunch or an upbeat atmosphere in Buckhead this locally owned eatery is the place to be. Roxx Tavern has been serving ATL natives and visitors affordable food for more than 20 years and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

Where: Buckhead

Stop in MetroFresh Bar in Midtown Virgil’s serves the ultimate Gullah Geechee spread

Woof’s Atlanta

Woof’s sports bar has been providing undefeated vibes for Atlanta’s gay community since 2002. All LGBTQ+friendly patrons are welcome to take part in classic eats on game days and specials on Wing Wednesday, $5-Burger Thursday and BBQ Friday.

Where: Buckhead

Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar

Virgil’s menu serves up a unique soul food infusion of Geechee flavors and fresh seafood with rice dishes prepared with pride. Feeling courageous? Start off with “shawk” bites or okra soup and graduate to shrimp n’ grits wit’ crab or slammin’ sammen for the ultimate Gullah faire. Midweek happy hours and Friday nights with friends, hookah and drinks always guarantee a good time.

Where: South Atlanta, College Park

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS

Bulldogs

as Bulldogs, has come alive in the night time for more than 40 years. Bulldogs is a favorite for Atlanta’s Black gay culture with DJs spinning the latest rap and hip-hop sounds, sending everyone to the dance floor.

Where: Midtown

Joystick Gamebar

The LGBTQ+ dynamic duo of Georgia Beer Garden and Joystick Gamebar bring more childhood nostalgia and excitement to Edgewood Avenue. Joystick Gamebar takes fun to another level with retro video, classic arcade and tabletop games. Pinball challenge, anyone? Stay in the social loop for upcoming themed game nights and specials for nerds and sci-fi characters alike.

Where: Eastside, Old Fourth Ward

Mary’s East Atlanta

Out magazine named Mary’s East Atlanta one of the world’s best gay bars. Whether you’re looking to sing your heart out to one of 15,000 songs or dance to Alternative DJ sets, you’re sure to have a good time. Be on the lookout for weekly drag shows and live performances from Atlanta’s top queer talent.

Where: Eastside, East Atlanta

My Sister’s Room holds the title for Atlanta’s longest-running lesbian bar for more than 20 years. No matter the time of day, this two-story Edgewood bar is a staple for the LGBTQ+ community with its burlesque shows, comedy nights and karaoke showdowns.

Where: Midtown

MERCHANTS

ABETTERBUZZ Brand Goods

A Better Buzz (ABB) encourages its patrons to Live Bold. From graphic tees and sporty tanks to cool headwear and trendy accessories, Buzz Busbee takes pride in producing top-quality merchandise for Atlanta’s queer locals and visitors. ABB also collaborates with local artists and brands to further spread awareness of the LGBTQ+ community.

Where: Eastside, East Atlanta, The Beehive

THINGS TO DO, ATTRACTIONS, ENTERTAINMENT

7 Stages Theatre

Located in the heart of Little Five Points, 7 Stages is a professional, nonprofit theater company devoted to engaging artists and audiences by focusing on the social, political and spiritual values of contemporary culture. 7 Stages gives primary emphasis to international work and the support and development of new plays, new playwrights and new methods of collaboration.

Where: Eastside, Little Five Points

INSTAGRAM @ABETTERBUZZBRANDGOODS

ABETTERBUZZ Brand Goods

Horizon Theatre Company

Horizon Theatre Company has been bringing exciting area and world premieres of contemporary plays to Atlanta’s audiences under the leadership of co-artistic directors and founders Lisa and Jeff Adler since 1983. Horizon has introduced Atlanta audiences to the works of such well-known contemporary playwrights as Rebecca Gilman, Wendy Wasserstein and David Hare, as well as plays by talented emerging writers.

Where: Eastside, Inman Park

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is the only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the study and celebration of all things design, featuring exhibitions highlighting architecture, industrial and product design, interiors and furniture, graphics, fashion and more. MODA examines how design affects our daily lives through engaging exhibitions, educational outreach and special events designed to initiate conversation and community dialogue.

Where: Midtown

Out Front Theatre Company

Since 2016, Out Front Theatre takes pride in artistic storytelling specifically crafted for the LGBTQ+ communities of Atlanta. Talented actors and producers innovatively focus on sharing insightful and inclusive experiences through theater and performing arts. Out Front’s most notable programing includes landmark queer pieces like “The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told,” “The Rocky Horror Show” and “The Ethel Merman Disco Christmas Spectacular.”

Where: Westside, West Midtown

MELISSA MCALPINE Pick up an unusual souvenir at the Museum of Design Atlanta Gift Shop

DISCOVER ATLANTA NOW

Visit DiscoverAtlanta.com to find out more and plan your next trip.