Board Update - Statement on the Colorado Springs Nightclub Shooting

Dear USBG Members and Community,

The United States Bartenders' Guild stands in solidarity with members of the LGBTQ+ community in their right to exist as coequals in our society, free from violence, persecution, and discrimination. Our hearts go out to those who were killed in the senseless attack on Club Q in Colorado Springs, as well as the friends and family left behind. That two of the victims were bartenders makes our grief all the more acute. We are also grateful for the bravery of those who placed themselves in harm’s way to prevent further casualties.

A bar can be a refuge, a community hub, a home away from home, and a place to bond with our chosen families. This is especially true for bars that cater to people who identify as LGBTQ+. Seeing these community spaces violated by acts of terror and violence, an all-too-common occurrence, is especially troubling.

As our communities continue to mourn and heal, please consider making a donation to the Colorado Healing Fund, which strives to, “assist local communities with the financial, emotional and physical needs of victims of mass tragedies that occur in the state of Colorado.”

Yours in service,

T. Cole Newton, President on behalf of the USBG Board of Directors

Aaron Gregory Smith, Executive Director on behalf of the USBG Staff