Massachusetts Bar's Mask Policy Shift Sparks Outrage, Internal Strife

A lesbian tavern in Greenfield, Massachusetts, known as The Last Ditch Bar, has become the center of a controversy after altering its long-standing mask policy. The bar, which describes itself as a space for the queer community, 'transsexuals, gender freaks, workers and their friends,' had mandated masks for all patrons since its opening in 2025. This policy remained in place even when the city reported no new COVID-19 cases for months.

However, on August 31, the bar announced on Instagram that it would implement a mask-optional policy on Saturday nights in an effort to increase business. The post stated, 'It is with love we inform our immunocompromised disabled divas we will be opening Saturday nights as mask optional to try out typical club nights...' and emphasized a commitment to making the space work for 'everyone and everything radical.'

The decision immediately drew criticism from many patrons who viewed the bar as a safe haven, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. Critics expressed dismay that a space known for its strong accessibility rules would pivot to a mask-optional model, calling the change "pandering" and a "mass disabling event."

One comment read, 'Last Ditch was a safe haven for a lot of immunocompromised folks and y'all were such a beacon for so many with mask mandating. It was one of the key selling points of your bar...' Another patron wrote, 'I hope your venue gets firebombed for robbing my fellow immunocompromised people of their Saturday plans just to scrape extra revenue from ableists,' according to the Boston Globe.

In response to the backlash, The Last Ditch Bar issued an apology for "disappointing valued community members with access changes by a casual announcement." The bar acknowledged its "passive and dismissive tone" and stated it was working to "consider all needs fully."

The situation escalated further during a monthly community meeting on September 11, intended to address the controversy. Dozens of patrons joined via Zoom and flooded the comments section, which were read aloud. Jackie Matellian, the bar's sole remaining owner after two others quit months prior, reportedly became emotional during the meeting. She explained that the business had not been her "passion project" and that she had taken over while dealing with significant personal financial difficulties, including living in her car for six months and being responsible for a $50,000 business loan. Matellian expressed doubts about her ability to run the establishment effectively.

The meeting concluded without resolution, leaving the community divided over the bar's policies and future direction. The Last Ditch Bar has not yet provided further comment.