Gay tulsa ok
[c. 1990] Tulsa Queer Bar History by Tim Turner
Text
____________________________________________________________
Flash From The Past
by Tim Turner
And help from others...
When you look at some of the photos from the Playroom Club era, 1978 to 1986, it almost
seems as though everyone was happy and male lover during that period in time. From what I
recollect, we were. We worked hard and we played difficult, like most Americans at that period in
history. The end of the Free Love Era certainly was not evident in the gay club scene in the late
70's. AIDS was pretty much unknown, at least in our part of the world, animation was good...spirits
were high, there was uncharted territory.
Around 1970, I got to hear wonderful stories of the first known lgbtq+ bars in the Tulsa area. Tropical
Gardens, as far back as the Early 40s, operated by two sisters in an aged filling station; The Blue
Note Lounge located on North Denver during the 40s and 50s; The Blue Haven opened
November, 1948 by the 'much loved' Producer, Activist and Entrepreneur, the late M.C. Parker.
M.C. Parker and Tim Warren would later cultivate and produce the largest, most spectacular
Oklahoma Gay Event in history, the
Our Voice
After moving to Tulsa four years ago through the Tulsa Remote program, I quickly discovered the many local organizations and businesses that support members of the Queer community like myself.
These were the places that made Tulsa feel like abode and afforded me the space to begin creating my newly released guide, "A Great Queer Book.” The novel highlights the serve of more than 100 talented individuals who have made significant advancements for LGBTQ+ rights and shares impactful stories that I trust our world needs to hear.
I'm so grateful Tulsa gave me the opportunity to share my own story, and I am arrogant to have published my book here with the amazing support of Tulsa Artist Fellowship and the greater Tulsa community. As a way to deliver back, here are some of my personal favorite local queer-owned and LGBTQ+-affirming businesses and resources that I urge you to aid and share with a friend.
Businesses
Tonsorial Barbershop
Tonsorial Barbershop is a queer-friendly barbershop providing haircuts and grooming services. The skilled barbers create a welcoming and affirming environment for all clients.
il Seme
Il Seme is a queer-owned
Tulsa, Oklahoma Gay City Guide
While many think of Oklahoma as being a fairly conservative state, Tulsa is somewhat of an exception to this rule. Tulsa is a fairly liberal, diverse, and welcoming municipality, and as the second-largest city in the express, it offers plenty to see, do, and appreciate for residents and visitors alike.
A Look at Tulsa’s History
Tulsa was initially settled by the Lochapoka band of the Creek Native American tribe between 1828 and 1836. For many years, Tulsa was a central part of the Native American space created as part of the relocation of many of the Native American peoples following the Indian Removal Act of 1830. Its strong Native American presence continues in many respects to this morning. The city itself began to grow further when trading posts and railroads were eventually established in the area in the 1800s, followed by the oil boom in the early 20th century. Oklahoma was officially declared a state in 1907 and Tulsa continued to increase, eventually becoming known as the oil capital of the world. Today, it remains a city with plenty of industry, arts and culture, and opportunity for all with a welcoming spirit and warm people.
A Few F Established in 1995, the Equality Center serves the Female homosexual, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) and allied community and is one of the largest centers of its kind in the region. The center is owned and operated by Oklahomans for Equality and includes an event center, a full-service lending library, a wellness center, and more. Be sure to keep up to date with events and programs offered by Oklahomans for Equality at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center by visiting their website. Once named the Best City Park in the United States by USA Today, the Gathering Place is a must-stop visit with something for everyone. Designed as a vibrant and inclusive space, Gathering Place blends nature with an urban setting. Since opening in 2018 and named USA Today’s Best New Attraction, Gathering Place has provided Tulsans and visitors alike with space to perform, relax and gather along the river. Take the family to travel the incredible playgrounds spanning the park’s 66.5 acres or get a walk with that particular someone throu
Tulsa's LGTBQ-Friendly Itinerary
Things to Do
Back to Top of ListDennis R. Neill Equality Center
Gathering Place