Redding's LGBTQ+ Scene: A Look Back and a Glimpse Forward

In the heart of Shasta County, California, the LGBTQ+ community has carved out a vibrant, albeit sometimes challenging, space. While Redding may not boast the extensive LGBTQ+ nightlife of larger metropolitan areas, its history is rich with stories of resilience, community building, and the enduring spirit of its people.

From pioneering drag shows that lit up downtown to the quiet strength of individuals who fostered safe havens, Redding's LGBTQ+ landscape is a testament to the power of connection.

The Dawn of Drag in Redding

The journey of LGBTQ+ entertainment in Redding is intrinsically linked to the vision of individuals like Tom Hinton.

Hinton, a veteran of the International Court System - a global LGBTQ+ social organization with noble titles and grand balls - returned to his native Shasta County in the early 2000s with a desire to bring a piece of that vibrant culture home. His efforts culminated in the first-ever drag show in Redding at a now-defunct downtown bar.

The event was an immediate sensation, a packed house buzzing with energy and enthusiasm. "It was like sardines," recalls Mama Troy (the drag persona of Troy Hawkins), a prominent figure in the local drag scene. "People were hooting and hollering, and it just went off with a bang."

Hinton's ambitions grew, leading to even larger productions, including a spectacular event at the Redding Civic Auditorium featuring 40 performers and elaborate props, like a giant pink slipper atop a bus.

These shows were more than just entertainment; they were powerful statements of visibility and celebration. As Mama Troy puts it, "There was a lot of fun in those days."

However, the late 20th century was also a period marked by significant hardship. The AIDS epidemic cast a long shadow, and Hinton, who served as a caregiver to many friends battling the disease, witnessed firsthand the devastating impact it had on the community.

"He can think of at least 14 friends who died in his arms," the source material notes. This era, coupled with societal shifts and personal losses, saw a decline in the drag scene. "Some died. And just like that, drag faded," Hinton reflects, a sentiment of profound loss evident in his words.

Resilience and Revival: The Power of Community

Despite the setbacks, the spirit of activism and community support never truly waned.

Hinton, alongside Brad Hart, continued to organize events, raising funds for crucial causes like the Shasta Trinity Tehama HIV Food Bank. In 2000, when a controversial rally denouncing gay people in the military descended upon Redding, Hinton, an Army veteran himself, was at the forefront of a counterprotest, unequivocally stating, "Gay service members 'can do their job just as good as anyone else.'"

The early 2010s saw a significant resurgence, spearheaded by organizations like the Redding Pride parade, consistently organized by Carrie Jo Diamond.

Hart and Hawkins, now volunteers with these burgeoning initiatives, looked back to the successful drag shows of the past as a model for fundraising. This inspiration led to the reinvigoration of drag nights, with "The Dip" (later renamed "The Vault") becoming a popular venue.

"Tickets for 'Redding Goes Drag' sell out quickly," Mama Troy observes, highlighting the enduring appeal and community demand.

The LGBTQ+ community in Redding has also faced significant challenges, most notably the tragic murders of Gary Matson and Winfield Mowder in 2008.

This brutal act of violence deeply impacted the community, serving as a local parallel to the historic Stonewall Uprising in its galvanizing effect. Hawkins, who had a frightening personal encounter with the perpetrators prior to the murders, describes the event as a stark reminder of their vulnerability.

"They made me, Brad Hart and others see they still were a vulnerable community," he explains. The memory of Matson and Mowder, whom Hawkins looked up to, continues to inspire efforts to foster visible role models for younger generations.

"The Club": A Cherished Haven Lost

For many years, "The Club" - also known by various names including Club, the, and the - served as Redding's primary LGBTQ+ safe space.

Located on the corner of Division and Center streets, this unassuming venue offered a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages, as well as their allies. Known for its potent drinks, music, and a small dance floor, it was a place where many found acceptance and belonging.

The sudden and unexplained closure of "The Club" in recent years sent shockwaves through the community.

The outpouring of grief and nostalgia on social media was immediate and profound. "No other bar in Redding feels as comfortable and laid back," one commenter lamented. "I have so many great memories there." Others expressed a deep sense of loss, with many seeing the closure as a significant step backward for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in the region.

Speculation arose regarding the reasons for the closure, with some suggesting the influence of the Bethel Church.

Regardless of the specifics, the loss of "The Club" left a void that many felt keenly. "It was a family. It was a lifelong friend. It was a safe place," read one heartfelt tribute. Despite the sadness, the community rallied, with a final farewell gathering featuring dancing, music, and a shared sense of remembrance, even in the rain.

Current Landscape and Future Outlook

Today, "The Vault," formerly "The Dip," stands as a prominent LGBTQ+-friendly establishment in Redding, continuing to host events like '80s dance parties.

While "The Vault" is recognized as the primary gay bar, whispers of other establishments, like "The Tropics," being queer-friendly suggest a growing, albeit dispersed, network of welcoming spaces.

The organization responsible for bringing the annual Pride parade to Redding is actively working to foster a more inclusive environment.

Their recent move to a dedicated space on Placer Street signifies growth and a strengthened commitment to community support. As Hart reflects on past fundraising efforts, the success of drag shows continues to be a beacon, demonstrating the community's desire for connection and celebration.

However, challenges persist.

The source material notes instances where local government bodies have voted against resolutions supporting LGBTQ+ recognition, much to the dismay of progressive citizens. This highlights the ongoing need for advocacy and education within the community.

The story of Redding's LGBTQ+ scene is one of enduring spirit.

It's a narrative woven from the courage of pioneers like Tom Hinton, the dedication of organizers like Carrie Jo Diamond, the vibrant performances of drag artists like Mama Troy, and the collective memory of a community that has faced adversity with grace and determination.

As Redding continues to evolve, the pursuit of visibility, acceptance, and safe spaces remains a central theme, ensuring that the echoes of past celebrations and the dreams of future inclusivity resonate throughout the community.