Has anything gay been happening in these historic buildings for the last 140 years?Īt the turn of the 20th century, the Merced Theatre (one of the oldest buildings in Los Angeles) offered a safe gathering place for LGBTQ individuals through its hosting of masked balls and highly satirical plays across from Olvera Street. Let’s take a close look at what happened before that.
Details Today, Downtown enjoys a renaissance in all things artistic and creative, but what has led up to this? Due to the urban decay not so long ago in the city center, gay life downtown had all but disappeared around 1980 to 2010. While focused on bringing local LGBTQ residents together and strengthening their sense of community, the festival also offers an opportunity for out-of-towners a point of entry for exploring DTLA’s new gay energy. DTLA now has four gay bars, and regular LGBTQ events. The renaissance of Downtown Los Angeles has allowed it to steal some of the thunder from West L.A., Hollywood and, more recently, West Hollywood. It’s the latest chapter in our LGTB history. Perhaps the most telling sign of DTLA’s gay ascendance is the establishment and success of its own annual Pride celebration, DTLA Proud annually at Pershing Square park by the SB Grand Lofts.
