Rumours Cabaret, a new queer bar in downtown Halifax, has been a magical experience for owners Gerry McCowan and Jose Chiu since its opening almost two months ago. With a dedicated queer space, the bar has been a welcome addition to the community, especially after the closure of Halifax’s last dedicated queer bar during the COVID-19 pandemic. The success of Rumours, with over $30,000 in sales in one night and 375 guests, highlights the need for such spaces in the city. For patrons like Andrew Russell and Jeff Collins, the bar provides a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and have fun, away from the recent attacks against queer individuals in the city.
The importance of queer-owned and operated spaces like Rumours Cabaret is evident, especially in light of recent events targeting queer individuals in Halifax. With the closure of the last dedicated queer bar in the city, Rumours has filled a void and provided a much-needed safe space for the community. Andrew Deveaux, a sales associate for Rumours’ partner J.D. Shore, emphasizes the significance of these spaces as outlets for people to gather, celebrate, and feel safe. The success of Rumours, drawing customers from across the Maritimes, has been met with overwhelming support and positive feedback from the community.
Halifax Pride, despite its success this year, recognizes the limitations of organizing queer events only once or a few times a year. Fiona Kerr, operations manager of Halifax Pride, acknowledges the struggle of creating spaces for queer people on a limited basis and highlights the importance of having a permanent gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community throughout the year. Rumours Cabaret, with its welcoming atmosphere and inclusive environment, has become a staple for queer individuals looking for a safe and supportive space to be themselves and connect with others.
The presence of Rumours Cabaret in Halifax has not only provided a place for the LGBTQ+ community to gather and celebrate but has also become a symbol of pride and empowerment for the owners. Chiu, reflecting on their experience walking in Halifax Pride parade for the first time, expresses pride in being able to openly celebrate their identity in a welcoming environment. The positive response from the community, with customers dancing, sharing stories, and expressing joy at the existence of Rumours, reinforces the importance of such spaces in fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance among queer individuals.
As Rumours Cabaret continues to thrive and attract visitors from near and far, the impact of this new queer bar on the community is evident. McCowan and Chiu’s dedication to providing a safe and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community has not gone unnoticed, with patrons expressing gratitude for the existence of such a welcoming establishment in Halifax. The success of Rumours, both in terms of sales and community support, highlights the need for more queer-owned and operated spaces in the city and serves as a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where individuals can feel accepted and celebrated for who they are.
