Asheville's Resilience: A Gay Bar Rises From the Flood
Asheville, North Carolina, has long been known as a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Nestled in the beautiful, albeit sometimes tempestuous, southern Appalachian mountains, this vibrant city pulsates with acceptance and inclusivity.
But what happens when paradise faces devastation? What happens when a dream, built with life savings and fueled by a passion for community, is washed away by a catastrophic flood?
That's precisely what happened to Brandon and Davie Davis, the visionary couple behind DayTrip, a planned haven for Asheville's queer community.
DayTrip, a bar and coffee shop hybrid envisioned as a hub for LGBTQ+ fundraisers, burlesque shows, and even dog adoptions, was poised to become a cornerstone of Asheville's already thriving scene. Then, Hurricane Helene struck.
From Dream to Deluge: The Impact of Hurricane Helene
Imagine pouring your heart and soul, not to mention your financial resources, into a project only to see it swallowed by 23 feet of raging floodwaters.
That was the reality for Brandon and Davie. Despite their best efforts - sandbagging the doors and taking all possible precautions - the sheer force of the hurricane proved overwhelming. Returning to the space after the storm, Brandon described it as a scene straight out of an "end-of-the-world movie." A chilling sentiment for anyone, let alone someone who had just invested everything in a dream.
The devastation extended far beyond DayTrip's walls.
Asheville and the surrounding region experienced significant flooding, leaving many residents struggling to find housing. The destruction of major roads in the rugged terrain hampered aid distribution, compounding the crisis. It's a testament to the spirit of Asheville that even amidst their own personal loss, Brandon and Davie immediately thought of others.
Community First: Rebuilding More Than Just a Bar
Before even considering their own situation, the couple prioritized their employees, compensating them even while the business was shuttered.
They also actively donated to local volunteer efforts, demonstrating a profound commitment to the well-being of their community. What does this say about them? It speaks volumes about their character and the deep roots they've planted in Asheville.
DayTrip wasn't just a business; it was a platform.
A platform Brandon and Davie intended to use to support their family, their employees, and the entire LGBTQ+ community in Asheville. "To have that taken away from you is devastating," Davis confessed, a sentiment that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever had a dream snatched away.
Asheville: A Beacon of Progress in the South
Asheville's commitment to inclusivity extends far beyond its vibrant nightlife.
The city has a long history of championing LGBTQ+ rights. Did you know that Asheville offered domestic partner benefits to same-sex couples as far back as 2000? Buncombe County followed suit shortly after. This proactive approach highlights Asheville's progressive values in a region where such acceptance wasn't always the norm.
The city also boasts numerous LGBTQ+-focused organizations and events, including the annual Blue Ridge Pride festival, which draws thousands of attendees each year.
The Mr. Gay Latino Asheville pageant is another popular event, attracting visitors from across the South. These events not only celebrate diversity but also contribute significantly to Asheville's cultural and economic landscape.
A City That Walks the Walk
While North Carolina faced challenges with discriminatory legislation in the past, Asheville consistently stood as a bastion of support for same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights.
Even when a state-wide amendment banning same-sex marriage passed, Asheville and Buncombe County residents overwhelmingly voted against it. This unwavering commitment to equality has solidified Asheville's reputation as a welcoming and affirming city for all.
The Future is Bright: DayTrip's Rebirth
So, what's next for DayTrip?
Despite the immense challenges, Brandon and Davie remain optimistic. They've launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for rebuilding and plan to begin construction in the spring. Their unwavering determination is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support.
The planned community events - the LGBTQ+ fundraisers, the burlesque shows, the dog adoptions - are still very much on the agenda.
DayTrip's story is not one of defeat, but of rebirth. It's a story of a community rallying around its own, supporting a dream that was temporarily derailed but not destroyed.
DayTrip will rise again. And when it does, it will stand as a symbol of Asheville's unwavering spirit, its commitment to inclusivity, and the power of a community to overcome adversity.
Keep an eye out for updates and opportunities to support their rebuilding efforts. Because in Asheville, community truly means everything.
Explore Asheville's Inclusive Scene
While you wait for DayTrip's grand reopening, why not explore other LGBTQ+ friendly spots in Asheville?
Check out these popular options:
- The Underground: A long-standing favorite for a reason.
- Banks Ave: Known for its lively atmosphere and friendly crowd.
- Scandals Nightclub: Catch a dazzling drag show and dance the night away.
Asheville offers a diverse and welcoming environment for everyone.
Come experience the magic for yourself!