Prior to the early 1970s, many gay men and lesbian women hid their sexualities from the public to protect themselves from discrimination and violence. That quickly began to change during the late 1970s and 1980s when the Indianapolis lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community began to well, come out of its closet. During this time, gay and lesbian Hoosiers found ways to celebrate, have fun and build community, while also organizing in response to the growing AIDS crisis and ... view more »
Prior to the early 1970s, many gay men and lesbian women hid their sexualities from the public to protect themselves from discrimination and violence. That quickly began to change during the late 1970s and 1980s when the Indianapolis lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community began to well, come out of its closet. During this time, gay and lesbian Hoosiers found ways to celebrate, have fun and build community, while also organizing in response to the growing AIDS crisis and widespread discrimination.
It’s time to drag this remarkable and little-known history into the spotlight! Indy’s LGBTQ history is the focus of the 6th annual historic “bar” crawl, presented by Indiana Humanities in partnership with the Indiana Historical Society. Join us as we journey through the late 1970s into the early 1990s with a drink (or two) in hand. We’ll witness the nation’s first AIDS fundraiser, the state’s first Pride demonstration and other colorful scenes from the city’s past.
Attendees will visit six locations (some bars, some surprise locations) in the Old Northside of Indianapolis, where IHS actors will bring the past to life. On this tour, everyone’s welcome and we hope not easily offended—things are sure to get cheeky! Past historic bar crawls have featured the re-creation of a John Dillinger robbery, a Cold War-era civilian watchtower program and the first airline stewardess strike in the country.
WHAT: A historic bar crawl through Indianapolis exploring stories of Indianapolis\’s LGBTQ community. Attendees will visit five different locations in groups, nosh on thematically appropriate snacks, imbibe signature cocktails, and sip beers provided by Sun King Brewing Company.
WHEN: Wednesday, June 20, 6 – 10 p.m.
PRICE: $60
Includes Sun King Brewing Company beer and food at five locations, plus pre-party and a special treat to send you on your way. Wine and signature cocktails will also be available. Purchase more than 10 tickets in an order to recieve $10 off each ticket.
WHERE: Everyone will begin at Gregs Place (an email with specific parking instructions will be sent closer to the event). After a brief brief pre-party (along with a complimentary drink and food to whet your appetite), five groups will follow a pre-determined route of five locations with five historic scenes before ending up back at Gregs.
WHO: This event welcomes all (over age 21, of course!). When you register please identify if you are registering with a group of six or more, via the notes section. Groups will be assigned the night of the event. We will do our best to accommodate all groups, but we recommend showing up on time and signing up together! (Max group size: 48)
The Indiana Humanities Historic Car Crawl is presented partnership with the Indiana Historical Society, Indy Pride and Sun King Brewing Company. Other in-kind partners include English Ivy’s, Gregs Place, Indiana Landmarks, and the Indianapolis Propylaeum.
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