It’s no secret that bars and cafés can be powerful third spaces—places beyond home and work where people gather, connect, and feel a sense of belonging. Ideally, they serve as inclusive environments where we can step outside the routines of daily life and simply be ourselves. But historically, not all of these spaces have been safe for everyone.
For members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, bars and cafés have held a unique, and often complicated, place in civil rights movements. One of the most iconic examples is the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village.
Let’s jump back to 1960s New York, where being openly gay was criminalized and queer folks often found refuge in gay bars and clubs. The New York State Liquor Authority sought to shut down bars who served liquor to these patrons, and while activists fought to successfully overturn this law, engaging in gay behaviour (dancing, kissing, holding hands with someone of the same-sex) was still illegal.
The mafia saw an opportunity to cater to this clientele, and the Stonewall Inn operated by the Genovese family quickly became the place to go. Police were bribed to ignore any illegal activities taking place in the club and were typically tipped off before any raids would take place. While locales such as these were operated cheaply, though not always safely, they offered a relatively safe space for people to gather.
On the morning of June 28, 1969, the NYPD raided the bar unexpectedly. People were roughed-up, arrested and forced to prove their sex. This wasn’t the first raid and fed-up patrons and Greenwich Village residents started throwing objects at police, inciting an uprising and leading to protests with thousands of people that continued for 5 more days.
This wasn’t the first act of resistance. Three years earlier, a group of trans women stood up to police harassment at Compton’s Cafeteria in the Tenderloin district of San Francisco. It is reported that the confrontation began when a trans woman threw a cup of coffee in a police officer’s face in response to ongoing mistreatment, sparking a riot.
While these events did not mark the start of the gay rights movement that was already underway, they culminated as a point of importance in history, mobilizing further activism and the formation of multiple gay rights organizations. One year after the Stonewall uprising, thousands marched from the Stonewall Inn to Central Park in what would be the country’s first gay pride parade.
Why Being Rainbow Registered Matters
While an ideal world would see everyone welcomed, no matter who they are, we still aren’t there yet. This is why Rainbow Registered spaces are important, certified by a national accreditation program ensuring that the business you are visiting is 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly. By adhering to a stringent set of standards, you can rest assured that showing up to a Rainbow Registered space doesn’t just mean you’ll be sitting down for a drink, but that you are supporting a space that is aligned in its values and commitment to equality.
Today, we’re celebrating some of the Rainbow Registered venues across Ontario who are committed to their values and ensuring that everyone has a place at the table.
Rainbow Registered Cafés
The Bean Counter Café
172 Picton Main St, Picton, ON
This Picton fixture offers a selection of brews made with locally roasted beans along with breakfast bagels, salads and sandwiches. After hours, the space turns into Bar Pochette with wine, cocktails and dim sum on offer. Truly the best of both worlds!
Lily’s Café
289 Main Street, Picton, ON
Another fixture on Picton’s main street, make this your stop for specialty coffee, baked goods or lunch after browsing through titles at the Rainbow Registered Books & Company next door.
Pan Chancho Bakery & Cafe
44 Princess St, Kingston, ON
Everything is made in-house at this European-style bakery and one-stop shop where you can stock up on a variety of local goods and gourmet pantry items before sitting down for a coffee and treat at the dine-in café.
Rainbow Registered Bars, Breweries and Cideries
Anderson Craft Ales
1030 Elias St, London, ON
This 100% family-owned brewery has a mission, and a passion, to brew top quality beer without compromise. From classic beers to more experimental brews, there is something for every palate with a menu you’d hope to find at a brewery in addition to Sunday brunch service. Add a packed event calendar and you’re set for a good time.
Buyers + Cellars
327 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON
Details matter at this wine bar with a highly curated tasting room created to dive deep into the world of wine. Atmosphere, aroma and service have all been honed in to offer the optimal environment for tasting the finer details. Focus on the glass or opt for tapas and charcuterie while you discover your new favourite bottle.
Ironwood Cider House
1425 Lakeshore Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
The contemporary cidermaker has a range of ciders and fruit wines on draft and available by the bottle or can, a refreshing contrast to the many wineries in the region. Expect a laid-back atmosphere, orchard views and regular exhibits at the art gallery on site.
555 Brewing Co.
124 Main St, Picton, ON
Beer and wood-fired pizza go hand in hand and this family-run craft brewery in Prince Edward County offers a classic selection of the iconic pairing. From trivia nights to live music, there's always something fun going on in the taproom.
More to Discover
It's not only cafés and bars that are Rainbow Registered. Check out the many 2SLGBTQI+ owned and supported businesses across the country who have taken the initiative to open doors and offer welcoming spaces for everyone.
