Last Ditch Bar faces backlash over mask policy change

Last Ditch Bar and Arts Venue, a lesbian bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, is facing community backlash following its decision to make Saturday nights mask-optional. The venue, which opened in 2025 with a mission focused on accessibility and mutual aid, previously required patrons to wear well-fitted KN-95 masks or better. The bar stated the change was a trial to allow for more traditional club nights with DJs and larger capacities.

Some members of the queer community, particularly those who are disabled or immunocompromised, have criticized the move, citing concerns over accessibility. The bar issued an apology on September 3, describing the initial announcement as casual and stating that the decision followed discussions with community members and business advisers. The venue noted it would continue to prioritize masked bookings and maintain its recurring Masked Social event.

The controversy has also drawn political reaction. The Western Massachusetts chapter of the Communist Party USA (CPUSA) issued a statement criticizing The Boston Globe for its coverage of the situation. The CPUSA argued the reporting was not newsworthy and suggested the media outlet was exploiting internal community conflicts to court a far-right audience during an election cycle.