FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 26, 2021
Resolution seeks to end historically discriminatory regulations while providing relief to struggling hospitality and entertainment workers
New York, NY — New York City Council Member Keith Powers, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, and Council Member Mark Levine will propose a resolution on August 26 to repeal Cabaret Law zoning regulations that serve as a barrier for restaurants and bars operating in New York.
In 2017, the Council passed historic legislation that repealed the Cabaret Law and established the Mayor’s Office of Nightlife. Despite this important step, many restaurants and bars are still not permitted to have dancing or entertainment under current zoning regulations. The proposed resolution calls to end the city’s zoning laws over dancing and entertainment, so establishments would be regulated based on capacity of venue, rather than zoning.
Dancing restrictions like the Cabaret Law have historically had a disproportionate impact on Black, Latino, and LGBT communities. For decades, enforcement subjected Black jazz venues, gay bars, and other establishments to police raids, heightened surveillance, and flagrant discrimination. Legalizing dancing and entertainment across the city would allow New Yorkers to finally express themselves without fear of punishment or policing.
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