Gay district sacramento

This comprehensive document was created to identify, preserve, and celebrate the people, places, and stories that have long defined LGBTQ+ life in Sacramento.

Drawing from archival research, oral histories, and firsthand accounts, the report brings Sacramento’s LGBTQ+ history into clearer focus.

This blog highlights some key historical moments captured in the Historic Context Statement related to the history of LGBTQ+ life in Sacramento and Midtown, but it only scratches the surface of the full research document.

Titled “Legends of Courage: The Rosemary Metrailer Story” highlights actions leading up to the legal action against the Rev. Jerry Falwell, which led to the founding of the Center by Metrailer in 1984. At the time, most gay and lesbian individuals stayed closeted to avoid social or professional consequences. The S Street Collective, located at 1903 21st Street, offered communal living and support for newly arrived lesbians throughout the 1970s.

This inclusive worldview stood in contrast to the rigid norms imposed by European colonizers, whose arrival introduced laws and beliefs that condemned gender nonconformity, which persisted despite the Gold Rush’s gender imbalance.

Even amid persecution, LGBTQ+ expression found moments of celebration in the public sphere.

The Merc played an important role in increasing the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community in the city. Lavender Heights is located at the heart of Midtown at 20th and K Streets and is the home of our weekly Midtown Farmers Market. Due to strong community interest and engagement, the training led by WEAVE was brought back for in-person sessions in 2023 and 2024, further reinforcing Midtown’s commitment to fostering inclusive and welcoming environments for all.

In February 2022, as part of a partnership between Midtown Association and the Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, 10 vibrant new banners are now proudly displayed on 20th Street between J and K Streets — including in front of the Sacramento LGBT Community Center.

However, the Cold War era brought a wave of fear and repression, resulting in heightened criminalization of LGBTQ+ individuals. Operating as a bar since 1938, it became The Western Pacific Depot after TJ Bruce and his mother Marjorie purchased it in 1997. As suburban development drew wealthier residents out of the city, housing in the Central City became more affordable.

Plus, our LGBTQ+ support services and resources make sure you're seen and supported no matter where you go. The bar had developed a reputation for attracting older gay men and continued to serve as a cornerstone of Sacramento’s LGBTQ+ nightlife.

In 1985, Terry Sidie opened the gay bar Faces, aiming to create an inclusive space for all communities.

Over the years, Faces became known for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring three dance floors, 16 bar stations, and an outdoor pool by 2015. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Downtown Sacramento became known for its theatrical performances featuring male and female impersonators—early examples of gender fluidity being expressed and applauded on stage.

If you are looking to support these businesses that give back to our community check out the directory!

Visit Sacramento: Visit Sacramento has featured LGBTQ+ friendly itineraries, blogs, and more for visitors and residents alike.

One Community Health: One Community Health is a non-profit health care provider serving the needs of the Sacramento Community.

In 2023, the city took an important step toward honoring that legacy by receiving a grant to develop an LGBTQ+ Historic Context Statement (HCS). The center is a proven leader in LGBTQ health issues, including HIV and AIDS health issues, and is regarded as a safe space for LGBTQ community members to receive healthcare.

Outword Magazine: Outward Magazine is the leading LGBTQ magazine for Central and Northern California.

Programs served LGBTQ+ people to lead self-sufficient, healthy, well-adjusted lives, and provided advocacy for issues of importance within the community.

In 1998, the Lavender Library was founded by eight community members as a research and information institution for LGBTQ+ people in Sacramento and continues operation today on 21^st Street.

In 2001, the Rainbow Chamber of Commerce was founded to unify and support LGBTQ businesses, as well as to foster a more equitable business climate.

In 2015, Sacramento City Council member Steve Hansen, Sacramento’s first openly LGBTQ+ council member, invited the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce to be part of a community coalition to pursue official city designation of the LGBTQ+ neighborhood of Midtown Sacramento historically known as Lavender Heights.

The Center’s website provides several links to community resources including Advocacy, Arts and Culture, Community, Social, Health & Wellness, and more.

Rainbow Chamber: The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber has a member directory of LGBTQ-owned and ally-owned businesses in Sacramento.