LGBTQ Bar Warns of Possible Closure, Cites Legal Battle and Rising Costs
Precinct DTLA, a longtime fixture in downtown Los Angelesâs queer nightlife scene, said Friday it is facing a severe financial crisis tied to what it described as a âdrainingâ legal battle with a former employee and warned that even a few slow weekends could threaten its future, according to a social media post on Instagram.
The venue shared a public statement on Instagram outlining the strain caused by the ongoing lawsuit, which names the business, its owner, and several members of its management team. According to the bar, the plaintiff, identified as a former employee, alleges discrimination based on her status as a heterosexual, cisgender white woman. Precinct called the claims âcompletely falseâ and expressed concern over the plaintiffâs legal representation.
The barâs statement accused the opposing attorney of harboring anti-LGBTQ+ bias, citing past allegations that he used homophobic language in workplace emails while employed at another law firm. In an Instagram story, the business elaborated on the allegations, saying, âThis person was adored and protected by everyone on staff including management. She was family. She was not targeted for being straight. Itâs such a shame how people can turn against those who showed them so much love when there is an opportunity to get ahead.â
Precinct emphasized that while it has weathered multiple challenges in recent years, including pandemic-related shutdowns, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity nearby, and citywide curfews, this legal dispute poses its most serious threat yet.
The post said, âYour presence matters. Your support matters. Letâs rally together and protect this space â for all of us. From all of us at Precinct: thank you.â At first, Precinct DTLA refrained from launching a GoFundMe but responded to requests from guests and has organized a fundraiser to benefit the business. You can donate here.
