You’ve heard of Stonewall… but have you ever heard of Sahara? 

Sahara was a groundbreaking women’s nightclub in 1970s NYC, founded when women couldn’t even apply for a liquor license. Leslie Cohen, its co-founder, stood up to the mob, fought for space, and created a haven for icons like Gloria Steinem, Jane Fonda, Adrienne Rich, and Patti Smith.

Leslie and her wife Beth, were the models for George Segal’s Gay Liberation sculpture, which now sits across from The Stonewall Inn, an international symbol of LGBTQ+ resilience.

Women like Leslie are too often left out of the history books, overshadowed, underrecognized, and underestimated.

She was brilliant, bold, and deeply generous with her time. Her book is a phenomenal read, I’ve included the link in the comments if you’re curious.

Here’s to remembering, honoring, and lifting up the stories that made this month possible. 🏳️‍🌈💖

https://youtu.be/sZuhBATWhq0?si=hGw_OtoYK9prVu9e

Wow, thank you for sharing! 🙏🏽💖 I hadn't heard of Sahara, but what a powerful story!  Leslie Cohen sounds like an incredible woman - her bravery and dedication to creating safe spaces are truly inspiring. 🙌🏽