In a disturbing incident, the front patios of San Diego’s renowned Gossip Grill, one of the few remaining lesbian-focused bars in the nation, were deliberately set on fire in an apparent arson attack at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Friday. Fortunately, no one was injured, and the damage was confined to the two patios. However, the attack has sent shockwaves through the LGBTQ+ community.
Staff members of Gossip Grill took to social media to share the distressing news, stating, “It was intentional and was arson.” They also emphasized the bar’s significance, noting that Gossip Grill stands as one of the last remaining Queer Women’s bars in the country, making the incident all the more heartbreaking.
The San Diego Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway. Gossip Grill’s management is cooperating with the San Diego Police Department, utilizing their surveillance cameras to help identify the perpetrator. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the fire department or Gossip Grill.
San Diego Pride expressed its devastation over the incident on Facebook, highlighting the importance of Gossip Grill as one of the last Queer Women’s bars in the United States. They called upon the community to rally in support of LGBTQ+ businesses like Gossip Grill, which remained open during its regular hours, 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., on the day following the attack.
The LGBTQ+ community and allies have united in solidarity with Gossip Grill, denouncing the attack as a hateful act against the broader community. Celeste Barbier, a San Diego resident, expressed her condolences on Facebook, stating, “Our hearts go out to the Gossip staff & all our community feeling the weight of what can only be seen as a hate crime against our community as a whole.”
This shocking arson attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges still faced by LGBTQ+ establishments and the importance of safeguarding spaces that foster inclusivity and acceptance. The incident has ignited a wave of support for Gossip Grill and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of adversity.