A Moment in Kansas City History, for Kansas City History
{B/qKC}, a community archive of Black queer Midwestern history, in collaboration with the City of Kansas City, MO, and presented by The Power & Light District with a slate of sponsors, are honored to commemorate Soakie’s with a 2’ x 5’ standing historic marker in Downtown Kansas City.
Soakie’s: an Italian Sandwich Shop and Black gay bar
Originally an Italian sandwich shop founded by Salvatore A. Rinaldo in the 1950’s, Soakie’s doubled as a Black gay bar from 1993 – 2004. Over the course of those 11 years, community blossomed through this new access to space and capital; Kansas City’s ballroom scene was more formally founded, Kansas City’s Black Gay Pride was founded in 1999, lifelong relationships were developed, and, for many, Soakie’s was the first outlet where folks could openly express their gender and sexuality.
Audiences can learn more about Soakie’s on {B/qKC}’s archival site: https://bqkc.1800nasi.net/read/soakies/.
Three events on September 26th commemorate this special day. RSVP for “The Celebration!”
Set to be installed within the next few weeks, {B/qKC} is inviting Kansas Citians far and wide to relish in this historic day with three special events on September 26th.
🪧 The Big Reveal, 12PM - 12:45PM
HR Block Pavillion (SE Corner of 13th & Main Street)
FREE! Just show up!
Hear speeches from {B/qKC}, the City and former Soakie’s patrons in honor of this historic moment. And, of course, catch your first glimpse at the marker.
🎈 The Celebration, 1PM - 3PM
Palm Tree Club Rooftop (14 E 14th St. Kansas City, MO 64106)
FREE! RSVP now through this Eventbrite, or you must wait in line. No guaranteed entry.
Presented by The Power & Light District and This is Ours KC, come join in a celebration right after the unveiling of the marker. Special guest DJ; food/drink provided for first hour.
🪩 The Afterparty, 10PM – CLOSE
Q Kansas City (504 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111)
COVER CHARGE! Just show up!
Close out KC’s historic Black gay pride month and this historic day with an afterparty at Q! Themed drinks and proceeds will go back to {B/qKC}.
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A big thank you to our collaborators and sponsors!
Collaborators
City of Kansas City’s Historic Preservation Office
Councilman Johnathan Duncan, and 6th District Office
Presenting Sponsor
The Power & Light District
Additional Sponsors
This Is Ours KC
Crossroads Hotel
Cherry Warehouse Hotel
Community Movement Builders-Kansas City
Q Kansas City
Pride Chartiable Fund
BlaqOut
Vivent Health
Palm Tree Club Kansas City
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Congratulations on the Soakie's marker. Good to see it going up downtown.