A Brick Through the Window: Hate, History, and the Enduring Spirit of Queer Spaces
A brick. A simple, brutal act of vandalism. But when that brick shatters the window of a gay bar, it's more than just property damage. It's a chilling reminder of the prejudice that still simmers beneath the surface, a stark intrusion into a space meant to be a sanctuary.
Recently, VERS, a vibrant gay bar in New York City's Hell's Kitchen, became the target of such an attack, sparking outrage and raising uncomfortable questions. But what does this act of hate really signify, and how does it connect to the long and complex history of queer spaces?
The Incident at VERS: More Than Just Vandalism
Security footage from a Saturday night captured a man, now sought by authorities, hurling a brick at the front window of VERS.
The owner, David DeParolesa, thankfully had installed shatterproof glass, preventing any physical harm to patrons.
Yet, the psychological impact is undeniable. The image of that cracked window, a visible scar on a place of community, is a powerful symbol of vulnerability.
This wasn't an isolated incident. DeParolesa reported it as part of a "pattern," highlighting a disturbing trend of attacks targeting queer spaces.
New York City Council member Erik Bottcher echoed these concerns, urging the public to help identify the perpetrator. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine rightly pointed out that this incident is unfortunately part of a larger national problem.
But beyond the immediate shock and anger, the incident at VERS forces us to confront a deeper historical narrative.
It echoes the challenges and threats that LGBTQ+ individuals have faced for generations, forcing us to consider why safe spaces are so crucial, and so frequently targeted.
Stonewall's Shadow: Bricks, Myths, and the Making of a Movement
The image of a brick being thrown immediately conjures the memory of the Stonewall Riots.
That pivotal event, sparked by police harassment of patrons at the Stonewall Inn in 1969, is widely considered the birth of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. But the historical details are often less clear-cut than the legend suggests. Did someone actually throw a brick at Stonewall?
And does it really matter?
Accounts from the time differ. Some reports mention coins, bottles, and cobblestones being thrown, but no bricks. The "first brick-thrower" has become a mythical figure, often associated with marginalized figures like Marsha P.
Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, transgender women of color who were central to the early fight for LGBTQ+ liberation. The symbolic power of this figure transcends historical accuracy.
Why this emphasis on the brick? Perhaps it's because the brick represents resistance, a physical act of defiance against oppression.
It encapsulates the frustration, anger, and determination that fueled the Stonewall uprising. While the historical accuracy of the brick is debatable, its symbolic weight is undeniable. It represents the moment when the LGBTQ+ community decided to fight back.
Queer Spaces: Sanctuaries Under Siege
Queer bars like VERS and the Stonewall Inn are more than just places to grab a drink.
They are vital community hubs, offering a sense of belonging, safety, and acceptance. They provide a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. In a world that often marginalizes and stigmatizes them, these spaces are essential for their well-being.
Why are they so essential?
- Community Building: Queer bars foster connections between people, creating a sense of shared identity and support.
- Safety and Acceptance: They offer a refuge from discrimination and harassment, providing a safe space to express oneself authentically.
- Cultural Preservation: These spaces often host events, performances, and celebrations that showcase LGBTQ+ culture and history.
- Political Organizing: Queer bars have historically served as centers for political activism and organizing.
The attack on VERS underscores the fragility of these safe spaces.
It highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and solidarity in the face of hate. It reminds us that the fight for LGBTQ+ equality is far from over.
Business as Usual? The Resilience of the Community
Despite the unsettling incident, VERS chose to remain open, posting a photo of cocktails against the backdrop of the cracked window, with the message "Come by and join us for a drink!" This act of defiance speaks volumes about the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
It demonstrates their refusal to be intimidated or silenced.
This "business as usual" attitude is not about ignoring the hate, but about reclaiming their space and asserting their right to exist. It's a powerful message that sends a clear signal: "You will not scare us.
You will not shut us down. We will continue to celebrate our lives and build our community."
Moving Forward: Solidarity and Vigilance
The attack on VERS serves as a call to action. What can we do to support queer spaces and combat hate?
Here are a few suggestions:
- Support local LGBTQ+ bars and businesses. Your patronage helps ensure their survival.
- Speak out against discrimination and hate. Don't let prejudice go unchallenged.
- Educate yourself and others about LGBTQ+ history and issues. Understanding is key to combating prejudice.
- Advocate for policies that protect LGBTQ+ rights. Contact your elected officials and let them know that equality matters to you.
The broken window at VERS is a stark reminder of the challenges that remain.
But it is also a testament to the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. By standing in solidarity, supporting queer spaces, and fighting for equality, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, welcome, and respected. The fight continues, brick by metaphorical brick, towards a more just and equitable future.