Statement on Julius’ Bar 159 West 10th Street Before the Landmarks Preservation Commission

We are pleased to testify today to affirm our support for the designation of Julius’ Bar as a New York City Landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission. Similar to the significance of the nearby Stonewall Inn, Julius’ Bar, at 159 West 10th Street, at the corner of Waverly Place, played a key role in the history of the LGBT Civil Rights Movement; when in 1966, members of the Mattachine Society staged a “sip-in” to challenge State liquor laws that were often abused by bar owners to openly discriminate against gay persons and barr them from being served and treated with the same respect as other customers. This event was an important early step that would pave the way for the LGBT community to raise awareness of the systemic injustices they endured and would eventually culminate with the Stonewall Uprising in June of 1969. It has long been a critical “must-see” destination for LGBT visitors from across the country and even the world.

The significance of this event warrants acknowledgement and the designation of Julius’ Bar as a Landmark would demonstrate the City’s commitment to ensuring that the history of the fight for LGBT rights is commemorated. We urge the Landmarks Preservation Commission to recognize Julius’ Bar as an integral part of that history by granting the site protection as a New York City Landmark.