Progress Bar Chicago

Progress Bar faces criticism over new no rap policy | Eater Chicago

"A Boystown gay dance club at 3359 N. Halsted Street that opened in 2013 implemented a leaked "no rap" policy—"we have implemented a no rap rule effective immediately"—ostensibly to promote a "super open format POP/DANCE focused atmosphere." The email banned "anything vulgar, aggressive, or considered mumble rap (including certain Cardi B tracks and newer Nicki Minaj)," said the bar would add security (including one specifically next to the DJ booth), and was widely shared on social media after being confirmed as genuine on the bar’s Facebook page. The policy came after a violent incident at Progress Bar when a man punched through a window and screamed at patrons; the leaked message sparked sharp criticism and accusations of racial discrimination, a flood of one-star Yelp reviews, and social media commenters calling the rule a transparent "dog whistle" intended to exclude Black and Latino patrons. Progress’s subsequent Facebook post saying DJs would continue to play hip hop was seen as insufficient by many, and owner Justin Romme later emailed an apology saying the message was unwelcoming and hurtful, announcing the venue would close for a night to "begin working to heal the pain" and reopen with a renewed commitment to reflect the diversity of the community." - Naomi Waxman