Future of Georgia’s Oldest Gay Bar at Risk Amid New Government Proposals
A Historic Venue Faces Uncertain Times
In Georgia’s oldest gay bar, “Success,” Tato Londaridze carefully navigates around construction materials as he envisions a new stage for drag queens on the dance floor. Located in the heart of Tbilisi, “Success” was the first gay club in the Caucasus region when it opened its doors in 2000. However, recent anti-LGBTQ proposals from the government have cast a shadow over its future.
Commitment to Identity Despite Challenges
“We are an open gay bar,” Tato emphasized. “And we don’t want to change that.” His statement comes in the wake of the Georgian Dream party’s announcement on Tuesday, detailing a new set of laws aimed at banning what they describe as “LGBT propaganda.” These proposed laws closely resemble legislation enacted in Russia and more recently in Hungary, which have been used to suppress gay rights.
New Legislation Mirrors Regional Crackdowns
The ruling party’s package of laws threatens to restrict the visibility and expression of LGBTQ communities in Georgia, echoing measures that have been instrumental in limiting gay rights in neighboring countries. The potential impact on establishments like “Success” could be significant, jeopardizing a space that has long served as a beacon for Georgia’s LGBTQ community.
In conclusion, as “Success” faces an uncertain future, Tato Londaridze’s resolve to maintain its identity underscores the broader struggle for LGBTQ rights in Georgia amidst rising governmental pressures.
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