Bushwick, Brooklyn, known for its vibrant art scene and diverse community, has welcomed a new addition to its nightlife: The Bush, a lesbian bar offering a much-needed space for queer women, trans, and non-binary folks to connect, dance, and celebrate. But The Bush is more than just a bar; it’s a haven specifically designed to uplift and center the experiences of queer people of color.
Born from a desire to create a comfortable and inclusive environment, The Bush is the brainchild of Jenille Nikke Alleyne and Justine LaViolette. This dedicated duo, tired of the dwindling number of lesbian bars and the lack of spaces catering to their desire for a more sophisticated cocktail experience, took matters into their own hands. After years of planning and navigating bureaucratic hurdles, The Bush opened its doors to an eager crowd, exceeding all expectations.
“It felt wild,” recounts one of the founders, describing the overwhelming support they received during opening weekend. “The community supported us and recognized that this is really something that we want.”
The Bush provides a haven for those seeking a relaxed yet exciting atmosphere. With its spacious layout, the bar caters to both those looking to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail and those eager to hit the dance floor. Speaking of cocktails, The Bush boasts a creative menu with cleverly named drinks like the “Guest Star” and the “Pillow Prince”.
But The Bush is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a community hub, committed to hosting a variety of events, from karaoke nights and DJ sets to sober events like panels and sound baths. “We want to give [queer events] a home,” emphasizes one of the founders, highlighting the importance of creating a space where queer people can collaborate and express themselves freely.
The founders recognize the vital role that queer spaces play, especially for those who have historically been marginalized. “It’s about connection,” they explain, emphasizing the ease and comfort that comes with being surrounded by like-minded individuals. Whether it’s forging friendships, building relationships, or simply flirting without fear, The Bush fosters an environment where all forms of connection can flourish.
Crucially, The Bush recognizes the unique challenges and needs of queer people of color, who often face intersecting forms of discrimination. By intentionally creating a space that prioritizes their experiences, The Bush fills a critical void in the NYC queer scene. “That is with 100-percent intention because there are not a lot of spaces that exist for queer POC.”
This commitment manifests in various ways, from the diverse range of events and music showcased to the overall atmosphere of inclusivity and belonging. The Bush aims to be a place where queer people of color can feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
Events
Justine and Jenille are also talking to others who want to open a queer bar because they say that “a huge part of the process for us was just figuring out where to begin.” They hope to be able to make this information more accessible and help other queer people who want to make their own space.
The Bush was also created to help provide a space to host events “There are so many incredible events that are here that have to be held in straight spaces. And we wanted to give them a home because these events are so special….it can be hard when they’re in a straight space to keep that special feeling and keep everyone feeling comfortable and safe. There’s something different about being able to collaborate with other queer people versus having to explain for a straight audience,” says Justine.
As The Bush continues to grow, its commitment to inclusivity and community shines through. With plans to collaborate with other queer spaces and curate diverse musical experiences, this Bushwick bar is poised to become a staple in the NYC lesbian scene.
If you find yourself looking for a fun, welcoming queer space in Bushwick, spend a night at The Bush.
