Bill Maher Criticizes 'Intolerant Left' Over Backlash to Massachusetts Lesbian Bar's Mask Policy
Comedian Bill Maher lambasted what he called the 'intolerant left' for its severe reaction to a struggling Massachusetts lesbian bar's decision to relax its COVID-era mask mandate on select nights.
Bill Maher, host of HBO's "Real Time," focused his criticism on the left-wing backlash against the Last Ditch Bar and Arts Venue in Greenfield, Massachusetts. The bar, which had been facing financial difficulties, had recently implemented a mask-optional policy for Saturday nights in an effort to boost business.
During his show, Maher highlighted the bar's mission statement, which he noted included "For dykes, transsexuals, gender freaks, workers and friends." He also pointed out the bar's economic struggles, including that one owner was living in her truck and that the venue would allow patrons unable to pay the cover charge to enter.
Last Ditch announced its policy change on Aug. 31 with a social media post stating, "It is with love we inform our immunocompromised disabled divas we will be opening Saturday nights as mask optional." However, the decision quickly drew criticism.
According to a report by the Boston Globe, community members voiced their grievances at a Sept. 11 meeting. Some critics reportedly objected to a White therapist moderating the discussion, with one attendee stating, "A lot of people are calling for an acknowledgment of harm and I’m hearing a WHITE therapist … center[ing] the feelings of a majority white and white adjacent staff."
Maher, referencing the community's reaction, stated, "And of course, the tolerant left did what they always do — became very intolerant and left." He cited extreme criticisms directed at the bar, including statements like, "People like you kill disabled people in the name of your own leisure and convenience," and "I hope your venue gets firebombed."
NewsBusters Executive Editor Tim Graham commented on Maher's critique, suggesting that the intense reaction to a single mask-optional night at the bar reflected an "old COVID authoritarianism." Graham also noted Maher's tendency to critique perceived intolerance within the left, despite his past support for Democratic figures like Barack Obama.
Maher's show previously addressed criticisms leveled against the left, including his commentary on wealthy celebrities who preached solidarity during the COVID-19 pandemic while ordinary Americans faced hardship. He has also expressed concerns about the Democratic Party being influenced by socialist ideologies.