05/24/2024
Unveiling Pride Month tribute:
The exclusive commemorative t-shirt honoring the hallowed grounds of The BROADWAY ! 🏛️🏳️🌈
From the Rainbow Pride of WV page …
Step into a piece of LGBTQ+ history as we pay homage to the enduring legacy of The Broadway Discotheque and Lounge, an institution that stood as a fortress of LGBTQ+ pride and solidarity in West Virginia from 1991 to 2020. Founded by Jim Fletcher and Clint Boyd Mynes, at 210 Leon Sullivan Way in Charleston, The Broadway emerged from the transformation of The Plantation into a vibrant hub for our community.
In 1996, The Broadway sought to host drag shows, yet faced a roadblock when the city of Charleston denied them a Cabaret license, citing female impersonators as 'exotic entertainment' and expressing a reluctance for further 'strip clubs' within city limits. Recognizing this as a form of conservative discrimination, the owners took their grievance to local news outlets and to the City Council. They, alongside local drag queens, participated in interviews, articulating that female impersonation is a legitimate form of theatrical expression, with performers embodying roles adorned in dazzling costumes.
Despite challenges, including a fight for recognition of drag performances as legitimate theater, The Broadway stood tall as a sanctuary of acceptance, hosting drag shows, welcoming LGBTQ+ luminaries like Thelma Houston, Linda Clifford, and Leslie Jordan, and hosting fundraisers for vital causes (like the Humane Society, The Living AIDS Memorial Garden, Charleston AIDS Network, Covenant House, and Rainbow Pride of WV).
🫶🏾 It wasn't just a bar; it was a lifeline, a stage for empowerment, and a catalyst for change. 🫶🏾
Join us in honoring the storied past of The Broadway, where moments of triumph—like the passing of anti-discrimination ordinances and the dawn of same-sex marriage—echoed through its halls. As we remember Jim’s legacy (1956-2024), let’s carry forward the spirit of inclusivity and love that defined The Broadway.
Since its closing (and demolition) in 2020, Jim Fletcher (along with his partner David Fleshman) continue providing a safe space for those in the LGBTQ+ community with the Lee Street Lounge at 222 Leon Sullivan Way, just a few doors down from where The Broadway once stood.
With every stitch of this exclusive shirt, we weave together the memories, the resilience, and the boundless love that defined The Broadway. Wear it proudly, and let us carry forward its spirit of unity and pride into the future. ✨ 🏳️🌈 🏳️⚧️
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2024 commemorative shirt design by the illustrious Angel Harless (they/them), a brilliant artist, mentor, fierce protector of our community, defender of LGBTQ+ rights, and a true legend in this town. Angel's dedication to the LGBTQ+ community extends far beyond their remarkable artistic talents. As a mentor, they have nurtured and inspired countless young folks, encouraging them to embrace their identities and express themselves boldly. Their tireless advocacy has helped shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Angel's unwavering commitment to our community's well-being, paired with their exceptional artistic vision, makes this commemorative shirt a true embodiment of our shared pride and resilience. We are honored to showcase their design and grateful for their enduring impact on our community.
❤️❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🩵🩷🤍🤎🖤
🤑🛍️👕You can purchase the 2024 commemorative shirt at any of our Pride Month events, starting May 30 at Drag Queen Bingo!
