A New Sports Venue for the LGBTQ+ Community

As women’s sports continue to grow in popularity, Philadelphia is set to make a significant addition to its local culture with the opening of Marsha’s, the city’s first queer women’s sports bar. Scheduled to launch at the end of summer on South Street, this bar aims to create an inviting and inclusive environment for both women and the broader LGBTQ+ community.

Meet the Visionary: Chivonn Anderson

Chivonn Anderson, a Philadelphia native, is the driving force behind Marsha’s. In an interview with NBC Philadelphia, she expressed her vision for the bar, stating, “Marsha’s is more than a bar; it’s a vibrant, inclusive space where everyone can feel welcome, safe, and seen.” This venue will showcase a mix of women’s sports, local Philly teams, and queer cinema, all complemented by a refined menu.

Celebrating Queer History

The bar is named in honor of Marsha P. Johnson, a prominent transgender activist known for her roles in the Stonewall uprising. Anderson hopes that this connection to queer history will resonate within the bar’s ethos, which emphasizes celebration and inclusion.

“Creating Marsha’s on the corner of South Street and Passyunk Ave feels like a full-circle moment,” Anderson noted, reflecting on her upbringing in the area during the ’90s. She aims to establish a space where all patrons can feel at ease.

Insights from Successful Models

Marsha’s is inspired by successful models like Sport Bra in Portland, which caters specifically to queer women and has seen significant success. The growing trend in queer-inclusive sports bars indicates a booming demand for such venues across the United States. As of now, there are only 36 lesbian bars in the country, making Marsha’s a substantial addition to the landscape.