This Saturday, Denver’s only lesbian bar will open its doors to patrons for the last time.
Blush & Blu owner Jody Bouffard announced the closing of the bar with an emotional statement on social media.
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“When I moved to Denver in 1996, there were over 200 lesbian bars across the country, each a beacon of refuge, though not always safe. Many of us entered through the side door, our hearts guarded and steps careful. Now, 28 years later, only 20 remain. The world has shifted, and so have we.”
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Bouffard emphasized it was her decision to “close this beautiful chapter of my life.” She thanked all promoters, performers, DJs, artists, and poets who “graced our stage” and became the “lifeblood” of the bar. “You’ve filled the space with color, magic, and joy,” she wrote.
She then thanked the patrons. “You didn’t just walk through these doors; you built this home with your love, laughter, and energy. This place exists because of you.” The post also announced the Saturday closing party.
The post was flooded with comments from devastated patrons thanking Bouffard for the safe space she provided.
“Thanks for being there through my coming out journey!” one person said.
“An incredible place that has long been a foundation for our community,” said another. “You will be missed.”
One commenter called it “a huge loss not just for Denver but for the world!”
Blush & Blu opened in 2012. In 2021, Bouffard spoke toAdvocate about how the pandemic almost shut down the bar for good.
She also reportedly told the Lesbian Bar Project about why spaces like hers are important: “A lot of people don’t have family because they’re rejected by their family. So coming into a queer space like I have and the ones that are remaining, you find your new family there.”
That same year, the bar was the subject of controversy when three former employees sued Bouffard for racial discrimination, failing to pay minimum wage, and stealing tips. They settled in 2023, according to The Denver Post.
Bouffard wrote in her post that there are 20 lesbian bars remaining, but according to the Lesbian Bar Project, there are 34 – 33 once Blush & Blu shutters.
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