Marge Summit, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, passed away at the age of 87. She was not only a gay rights activist but also the owner of a legendary bar near Chicago’s Wrigley Field. Stay in touch with our website NewsManthan for the latest news!
Marge Summit Death
Her establishment, His n’ Hers, welcomed people from all walks of life, breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity. Marge Summit was a fearless advocate who fought against discrimination and championed acceptance during a time when being gay was met with hostility. Let us delve into the life and legacy of this remarkable woman.
A Trailblazer During The AIDS Epidemic
In 1986, amidst the AIDS epidemic, many businesses refused to serve gay customers. However, Marge Summit took a bold stand. She began stamping every bill that came through His n’ Hers with the words “GAY $” to raise awareness about the economic power and presence of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hundreds of these stamps were sold to empower others to do the same. Her efforts sought to dispel the notion that the gay community was a third-class citizen. Despite receiving a cease-and-desist letter and a visit from Secret Service agents, Marge Summit fearlessly challenged the status quo, refusing to back down.
Unyielding Spirit And A Colorful Vernacular
Marge Summit was known for her indomitable spirit and straightforward manner. She had a colorful vernacular that could be both foreboding and endearing. Friends described her as a tough lesbian who wouldn’t tolerate mistreatment. Her resilience and refusal to be shamed or
Intimidated due to her sexual orientation made her an inspiration to many. Marge Summit’s bravery in asserting her identity helped pave the way for the acceptance and equality the LGBTQ+ community experiences today.
Creating Welcoming Spaces
His n’ Hers was a haven for the LGBTQ+ community and a place where everyone felt welcome. In an era before online connections, gay bars like Marge Summit played a pivotal role in building a sense of community. Unlike many other establishments at the time, His n’ Hers embraced diversity,
Welcoming individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Tracy Baim, the co-founder of the Windy City Times, highlighted Marge Summit’s dedication to inclusivity, noting that her bar accommodated gay, straight, and lesbian patrons, transcending the gender-based divisions that were common in other venues.
A Force For Change
Marge Summit’s influence extended beyond the walls of her bar. She was one of the first to introduce live entertainment to gay bars, hosting open mic nights that showcased local talent. Additionally, she co-produced a documentary titled “Crimes of Hate,” shedding light on the violence faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Chicago.
Her commitment to activism was recognized when she was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame in 1993. Marge Summit also played a crucial role in fostering understanding and acceptance among families by counseling parents of gay children through the local chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite her contributions, Marge Summit faced significant obstacles. In 1986, her bar was acquired through eminent domain to make way for a new CTA station. She waged a legal battle against City Hall but was ultimately unsuccessful.
Her determination, however, left a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community. His n’ Hers, although forced to relocate to a less-desirable location, continued to serve as a sanctuary for a few more years.
