GAY RIDGE

EXPLORING THE VIBRANT HISTORY AND BRIGHT FUTURE OF THE LGBTQI+ COMMUNITY IN SOUTHERN BROOKLYN'S BAY RIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD. FROM A THRIVING WOMEN'S SOFTBALL LEAGUE AND BAR SCENE IN THE 70S AND 80S, TO THE PRESENT DAY WHERE ACTIVIST GROUP GAY RIDGE IS WORKING TO BRING LGBQTI-OWNED BUSINESSES TO AN ASPIRATIONAL DISTRICT REFERRED TO AS GAY RIDGE AVENUE.

A symbol of patriotism flies in an alleyway in Bay Ridge, a neighborhood in South Brooklyn known for conservative ideals and values.
McKensie, a transgender leader of local community group Gay Ridge, shares a kiss with her partner at a Bay Ridge bar during a group event.
Bernie holds treasured photos from her days in a Bay Ridge women's softball league, which boasted a significant number of lesbian players and was financially backed by local bars until its disbandment in the early 2000s.
A serene street in Bay Ridge, a tight-knit community known for its suburban atmosphere.
LJ, a transgender man and leader in the Gay Ridge community, stands outside a vacant storefront on Bay Ridge Avenue. With hopes of attracting more LGBTQ+-owned businesses to the area, LJ, who hails from nearby Bensonhurst, is spearheading the movemen
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Bay Ridge resident and longtime member of the local LGBTQ+ community, Bernie, stands outside her home. Hoban was actively involved in the local softball league and bar scene during the 70s and 80s, and is a member of Gay Ridge.
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A performer entertains the crowd at a St. Patrick's Day speakeasy event hosted by Gay Ridge at a local Bay Ridge bar.
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JM, one of Gay Ridge's co-directors and a cisgender gay man, shows off his colorful nail polish.
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A player celebrates on the Fort Hamilton softball field during a game for the Women's Independent Softball League, which played a significant role in Bay Ridge's lesbian community.
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