LGBTQ Club Bans 'MAGA' Attire After Patron Complaint

An LGBTQ club in Sacramento, California, has implemented a new policy prohibiting all “MAGA-related attire” following an incident where a patron wore a “Make America Great Again” hat to the popular venue. The phrase and its acronym have been widely associated with supporters of former President Donald Trump since his first term.

Badlands Club's Decision

TJ Bruce, the owner of Badlands, announced the new policy on the club’s Instagram page this week. Bruce stated that the MAGA hat “led to discomfort among some patrons.” Initially, the club considered banning all political attire to avoid further issues, but after careful consideration, they determined that a blanket ban was not the appropriate approach.

Prioritizing Community Comfort

Bruce emphasized that the decision to prohibit MAGA-related attire is not about suppressing political beliefs. Instead, it aims to ensure that Badlands remains a space where the community feels comfortable and supported. Bruce stated, “This decision is not about banning political beliefs — it is about ensuring that Badlands remains a space where our community feels comfortable and supported.”

The Patron's Perspective

Steven Bourasa, the customer who wore the MAGA hat, claimed it was his first time donning the hat at a gay bar. He stated to local NBC affiliate KCRA-TV, “I said, ’What the heck? Let’s see what happens.’” Bourasa added that he had a “pleasant time” at Badlands and encountered no problems, expressing surprise at the subsequent policy change.

Mixed Reactions to the Policy

The club’s new policy has garnered mixed reactions. The Sacramento chapter of Log Cabin Republicans, a gay conservative group, criticized the policy as “a disappointing move that prioritizes division over the fundamental American principle of free speech.” They argued that excluding individuals based on political expression contradicts the values of inclusivity and open dialogue championed by the LGBTQ+ community.

Alice Malmberg, a resident near Badlands located in the city’s Lavender Heights “gayborhood,” expressed understanding for the club’s decision. She stated to KCRA, “Given the current political climate and what’s been going on and how the administration has been behaving toward certain groups, especially the LGBTQ community, I can understand why they made that decision.”

Bourasa, despite the policy change, indicated that he would continue visiting Badlands but would refrain from wearing his MAGA gear.