Minneapolis hears arguments for legalising LGBTQ+ adult bathhouses
Two men in a sauna (Getty images, stock)
The Minneapolis City Council has heard widespread support for repealing a longstanding ban on adult bathhouses.
The council heard from more than 30 residents on overturning the 1988 ordinance, which prohibits venues where consenting adults can engage in sexual activity.
Several LGBTQ+ activists spoke in favour, saying the ban originally targeted same-sex relationships and people with HIV and AIDS.
Jay Orne, a researcher with the Aliveness Project, argued (as per MPR News) that driving sex into hidden spaces does more harm than good: “Research has shown that pushing sexual activity into less visible spaces does not eliminate the risk. It makes outreach and education more difficult.”
Supporters also pointed to potential benefits for tourism and safer-sex practices. Mayor Jacob Frey has indicated he would sign a repeal if passed – though it isn’t a priority.
He said: “We need to have a laser focus right now on public safety, on economic development, and housing. And so, am I supportive of the general direction that the council is going on this, I am. It’s just not the first thing that I want to be working on.”
The council will vote on the ordinance next week.
It would not mean that bathhouses would immediately become legal and open up, but it would contribute to a longer process which may permit venues for sexual activity in the future.
Minneapolis previously had three adult bathhouses. One, the Locker Room Baths, was raided by police in 1979 – it became the largest raid of an adult bathhouse in American history.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
