Aired Aug 5, 2021

Being Queer & Sober

We hosted a conversation about this article as a part of PFLAG Connects and Something to Talk About Live on Thursday, August 5. Did you miss it? You can still watch it here!

Have feedback about how your conversation went? Let us know by e-mailing [email protected].

Article: “For the morning gays:” The importance of LGBTQ-owned cafes as sober, queer spaces

Source: Salon

Author: Ashlie D. Stevens

Questions for Discussion:

1. The article suggests a few reasons that LGBTQ+ cafes and coffee shops have grown in popularity in recent years. In your personal experience, do those reasons ring true? Have you noted more people in your social and professional circles being more mindful about alcohol, or completely abstaining?
2. Many studies have demonstrated a significant problem with alcoholism in the LGBTQ+ community which has often been exacerbated by Covid-related stress as well as increases in anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. However, the image of the free-spirited party-focused queer person seems to prevail in media and advertising. Why do you think that this disconnect exists and many people are uncomfortable with discussing it?
3. What can everyday advocates do to support the creation of these kinds of more relaxed, sober LGBTQ+ spaces? Can you name specific ways that you, in your everyday social interactions, can help create more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people who are sober to be out about their decisions?

Ways to Watch:

Something to Talk About Live is a series designed by PFLAG National’s Straight for Equality program to create conversation about LGBTQ+ issues. Each week we offer an article on LGBTQ+ topics and suggest a few questions you can use to lead a discussion with your ERG, community group, or PFLAG chapter.