NYC Black Gay Bar to Remain Open

Chi Chiz, the New York city bar frequented by gay African-American men, will remain open for now following threats of closing over drug-dealing allegations.

According to Rod 2.0, activists and attorneys went to Manhattan supreme court in an attempt to save the 12-year-old bar Thursday. As a result, the case will continue until at least November, during which time the bar on Christopher Street will stay open.

"New York City-based author and activist Nathan James attended the hearing and tells R20: 'The case has been continued until November. Chi Chiz will stay open provisionally until then. Look for strict rules enforcement and more NYPD.' A source close to the police investigation adds, 'There's going to be uniformed and plainclothes officers on-site. And if there are arrests the bar could be closed.'"

The police department says that officers have witnessed drugs being sold on the premises, but some of the bar's supporters believe that neighbors want the establishment closed because it attracts gay patrons of color to the West Village neighborhood.

Chi Chiz was raided by the New York Police Department in March, in an incident where witnesses say an undercover NYPD officer shouted antigay slurs outside the club, reports Rod 2.0.