Protect yourself when you go to a bar or club in NYC. Know that the community and the law are on your side. There are federal, state, and municipal civil rights laws prohibiting racially discriminatory behavior at these venues. And there’s a deep history of community and legal action against bars and clubs that discriminate based on race. Below are useful tips if you experience racial discrimination by bar or club staff.
1. Assert yourself. (Call out racist behavior and don’t be afraid to threaten legal action)
2. Take photos and videos. This is legally permissible.
3. If possible, request to speak with management and file a complaint.
4. Gather names of perpetrators (bartenders, bouncers, dancers, DJs, etc.).
5. Gather witnesses, esp. strangers (names, numbers, e-mail addresses).
6. If a non-API or non-person of color is allowed entry when you are denied, get his/her info and story (to demonstrate unequal treatment).
7. Record the location, date, and time of the incident.
8. Notify GAPIMNY (www.tinyurl.com/racismgayclubreport).
9. If you have an account with Yelp or another review site, we encourage you to write a review of your experience.