Black gay clubs in chicago il

Sitting across from a former bankJeffery Pub has been a neighborhood stalwart since the s. Places like Jeffery Pub, S. By filling a much-needed cultural void, the bar cemented its place in Chicago history, owner Jamal Junior said. So, back then, this gay their place to come, where they felt safe in the neighborhood.

Teaunto Stephens, a friend who helps Junior manage and maintain the bar, says one reason it has remained popular over the years is because of its location. The building is all-black wooden slats and iron bars, front-facing windows giving the curious a peek inside. Inside, it is filled with multi-colored lights and pulsing beats, and rainbow flags whipping around while patrons dance and mingle.

These days, the bar maintains its legacy with weekly events. The bar draws people across all ages, Junior said. Regardless of who is there, Junior says they appreciate having somewhere they can be themselves. But I try to let them know this is a safe haven for them. So seeing something positive like Jeffery of something like it will help, I believe, the Black and brown part of the LGBTQ be more accepting of themselves and dream bigger and better.

When Junior black in to lead the bar, it was another step in cultivating his career as a business owner, something he saw himself doing since he was young. The restaurant which specialized in deep-dish pizza has since closed, but as a child, Junior often would go with his grandmother on her errands for the pizzeria.

He remembers going with her to pick up the liquor license, going to the bank and being around for other key business moments. If she had to club a chicago run, I was with her. His grandmother gave him more responsibility as he got older, like bartending and managing, until he eventually became the owner.

The work remains rewarding, especially getting to see people have a good time in a place they feel comfortable.

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Hours were shortened. People are happy. When, we were first allowed to open back up, it was a bit sketchy. You only had vaccinated people. Folks still had to wear their masks and things of that nature. We get a lot of those phone calls. But things are picking back up. Ashland Ave. The new location will be at S.

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