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Lessons in Inclusion I Learned in a Gay Bar
It was not how I expected my evening was going to go.
I was on vacation by myself in Denver and walking home to my rented condo for the evening. I had planned to settle in early for my first night there. But, as I walked down Sherman St., I heard some music coming from a big two-story building. Not crazy loud music, but enough to draw my attention.
I figured I’d stop by for a drink and check it out, then turn in. Music draws me in every time. The whole bottom floor was empty and the bouncer told me everyone was upstairs.
It took me about 2.3 seconds to eye the crowd and the bartenders before realizing it was not what I expected.
I was one of only three women in the place and it was busy. The bartenders were all muscular, shirtless men wearing tiny shorts.
I had clearly stumbled into a gay bar. A men’s gay bar.
I felt immediately self conscious. Turning around and leaving seemed impolite so I went to the bar and ordered a drink and milled around awkwardly. I mean, I can be awkward in public in general. This was next level.
My awareness of my existence because almost heavy and questions raced through my mind about…
