Latino State News
COMMUNITY: Activists Want Local Gay and Lesbian Bar Shut Down
Little Village community activist Raul Montes Jr. held a news conference today to call for the closing of a local bar on 26th Street. La Cueva has been around since 1972 and is located on 4153 W. 26th Street in a nondescript building. The bar caters mostly to a gay and lesbian clientele but that is not why it is drawing ire from local activists.
Montes and others claim the bar attracts prostitutes and ‘other illegal activity’ in an area that is home to many families. Montes feels the business encourages prostitution, sells alcohol to minors and allows drug dealing around the premises. He has taken his complaints to the local alderman and police commander, who have not acted on the complaints.
La Cueva is recognized as being one of Chicago’s oldest Latino gay club’s and holds itself out as a responsible community citizen and viable, legitimate enterprise. It holds drag shows Thursday through Sunday and provides a welcoming space for the Latino transgender community according to La Cueva management.
