San Diego’s Gay Bar History

Since WWII, no less than 135 gay bars have operated in San Diego and provided sanctuary for GLBTQ+ people to discover themselves and form community. These institutions have played an integral role in creating spaces for building friendships and fostering activism, as well as serving as spaces for both grieving and celebration. San Diego’s Gay Bar History examines the roles bars have played across three major time periods: after WWII until the birth of the modern gay rights movement in 1969; during the 1970’s and until the onset of HIV in 1981; during the AIDS epidemic (1981–1995), and beyond. Through archival photographs, historic footage, and interviews with bar owners, bartenders and prominent community members, this documentary provides a glimpse into the rich history of San Diego’s gay history and culture