# Last Ditch Bar mask policy and closure controversy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/last-ditch-bar-mask-policy-controversy > Updated: 2026-09-29T11:07:52.000Z. Sources: 29. Developments: 4. The Last Ditch Bar and Arts Venue in Greenfield, Massachusetts, remains embroiled in controversy following its decision to make Saturday nights mask-optional. The venue, which opened in 2025 with a mission centered on accessibility for immunocompromised and disabled patrons, previously required KN-95 masks at all times. The bar stated the policy change was a trial intended to allow for larger capacities and traditional club nights. Critics have accused the owners of prioritizing revenue over the safety of disabled individuals, with some describing the decision as a “mass disabling event.” While the bar issued an apology regarding its initial announcement, noting the decision followed discussions with community members and business advisers, the tension has escalated. During the venue’s first mask-optional event, a goth-themed night, staff implemented strict security measures, including requiring patrons to surrender identification, amid concerns regarding “infiltrators” and “safety breaches.” The situation has drawn significant national attention and political commentary. The Western Massachusetts chapter of the Communist Party USA (CPUSA) criticized media coverage, specifically targeting The Boston Globe, suggesting the reporting exploited community conflicts to court a far-right audience. As the dispute gains prominence, owner Jackie Matellian has expressed feeling as though she is failing in her role while managing the business alone. Recent developments indicate the venue faces potential closure. Matellian, the bar’s sole remaining founder, reported during a community meeting that she is struggling to manage a $50,000 business loan while working four jobs. The saga has become so widely discussed that the talent agency UTA is reportedly fielding inquiries regarding potential film or documentary adaptations. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-29: Last Ditch lesbian bar faces closure amid community controversy The Western Massachusetts lesbian bar Last Ditch faces closure following a controversy over lifting mask requirements and the founder's struggle to manage a $50,000 business loan. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/last-ditch-lesbian-bar-faces-closure-amid-community-controversy ### 2026-09-27: Last Ditch Bar faces controversy over mask policy change A Massachusetts lesbian bar, Last Ditch, faces intense community backlash and financial struggle after relaxing its strict COVID-era mask mandate to attract more patrons. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/last-ditch-bar-in-massachusetts-faces-controversy-over-relaxed-mask-mandates ### 2026-09-24: Last Ditch Bar faces backlash over mask policy change A Massachusetts lesbian bar is facing backlash from the queer community after making Saturday nights mask-optional, sparking criticism regarding accessibility and political tension over media coverage. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/last-ditch-bar-faces-backlash-over-mask-policy-change ### 2026-09-22: Last Ditch Bar faces backlash over mask policy change A lesbian bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, is facing backlash and boycott threats after making Saturday nights mask-optional to address financial struggles, sparking debates over disability rights. 13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/last-ditch-bar-in-massachusetts-faces-backlash-over-mask-policy --- Cite as: Last Ditch Bar mask policy and closure controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/last-ditch-bar-mask-policy-controversy