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Peaches Sports Bar, a beloved queer-friendly sports bar in Parkdale, has become the latest victim of the city’s ongoing small business struggles.
Last week, customers were caught off guard when they found the bar closed and a notice from the landlord stating that the rent hadn’t been paid. Now, the community is rallying behind Peaches through a GoFundMe campaign started by the owners, Veronica Sayes and Anthony Fushell, to raise funds for legal support and staff wages.
In a heartfelt message shared on the GoFundMe page, Peaches expressed the gravity of the situation:
“We are currently locked out of the wonderful place they, thems, femmes, queers, boys and girls have called home for the last two years for a safe and welcoming space to watch sports.”
The closure, which owners claim happened abruptly, has left both staff and ownership without access to their belongings, tips, electronics and paycheques.
“Our staff, and ownership team have been denied access to the building by the landlord, despite many requests to retrieve our belongings.”
Peaches redefines the sports bar scene with its commitment to inclusivity. Named after the iconic female team from A League of Their Own, the west end bar was designed as a welcoming haven for Toronto’s queer community, blending sports with a sense of belonging.
“We understand, especially in Toronto, falling victim to landlords who do not understand community is not uncommon,” the message continues, alluding to the challenges faced by other queer-friendly establishments in recent years.
The GoFundMe campaign is calling on the community to help Peaches navigate the legal battle ahead.
“We are hopeful we will be able to come to a peaceful and prosperous solution, but we have started this GoFundMe to help with legal costs, support to negotiate with our landlord, settle with our wonderful local suppliers, but most importantly, to help support our incredible hardworking staff.”
In just three days, Peaches has already raised $3,356 through their GoFundMe, as the community rallies behind them.
