Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ landmark bar, The Abbey, and The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI) announced that The Abbey is officially certified by SIGBI as a LGBTQ+ Safe Space.
SIGBI, the official and only charitable giving organization of the historic Stonewall Inn in New York City, worked with The Abbey to provide the proper training, policies and standards that ensure the iconic gay bar is creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ employees, LGBTQ+ customers and advocating for equality.
In addition to completing the 10-step Safe Spaces Certification Program, The Abbey’s employees participated in a training component designed by Jennifer Brown Consulting to ensure that they are creating an inclusive environment.
On Friday, September 6, The Abbey, The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative, and STOLI will host an invite-only celebration of The Abbey’s SIGBI Safe Spaces Certification at the bar.
The event will feature performances by Becky Peach (Legendary) and DJ Brynn Taylor, and special guests comedian Bruce Vilanch, SIGBI CEO Stacy Lentz, STOLI LGBTQ+ Ambassador Patrik Gallineaux, and The Abbey owner and “The CEO of Everything Gay” Tristan Schukraft.
“Gay bars have long been considered safe spaces for our community but it’s important that they are actually safe, and our entire community feels welcomed inside them. Being the first nightlife venue in Los Angeles to be certified by The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative’s official Safe Spaces Program, speaks to my personal commitment to keep The Abbey a safe space,” said Tristan Schukraft, owner of The Abbey. “I hope other venues in West Hollywood and across the country will join us and get certified.”
