Tulsa gay

While many think of Oklahoma as being a fairly conservative state, Tulsa is somewhat of an exception to this rule. Tulsa is a fairly liberal, diverse, and welcoming municipality, and as the second-largest city in the mention, it offers plenty to see, do, and like for residents and visitors alike. 

A Look at Tulsa’s History

Tulsa was initially settled by the Lochapoka band of the Creek Native American tribe between 1828 and 1836. For many years, Tulsa was a central part of the Native American area created as part of the relocation of many of the Native American peoples following the Indian Removal Act of 1830. Its strong Native American presence continues in many respects to this evening. The city itself began to grow further when trading posts and railroads were eventually established in the area in the 1800s, followed by the oil boom in the early 20th century. Oklahoma was officially declared a state in 1907 and Tulsa continued to increase, eventually becoming known as the oil capital of the world. Today, it remains a city with plenty of industry, arts and culture, and opportunity for all with a welcoming spirit and approachable people.

A Few F

Tulsa's LGTBQ-Friendly Itinerary

Things to Do

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Dennis R. Neill Equality Center

Established in 1995, the Equality Center serves the Woman loving woman, Gay, Bisexual & Gender nonconforming (LGBT) and allied collective and is one of the largest centers of its kind in the region. The center is owned and operated by Oklahomans for Equality and includes an event center, a full-service lending library, a wellness center, and more.

Be sure to maintain up to date with events and programs offered by Oklahomans for Equality at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center by visiting their website.

Gathering Place

Once named the Best City Park in the United States by USA Today, the Gathering Place is a must-stop see with something for everyone. Designed as a vibrant and inclusive space, Gathering Place blends nature with an urban setting. Since opening in 2018 and named USA Today’s Leading New Attraction, Gathering Place has provided Tulsans and visitors alike with territory to play, relax and gather along the river.

Take the family to investigate the incredible playgrounds spanning the park’s 66.5 acres or take a saunter with that special someone throu

Our Voice

After moving to Tulsa four years ago through the Tulsa Remote program, I quickly discovered the many local organizations and businesses that support members of the LGBTQ+ society like myself. 

These were the places that made Tulsa feel like home and afforded me the territory to begin creating my newly released book, "A Great Gay Book.” The book highlights the labor of more than 100 talented individuals who own made significant advancements for LGBTQ+ rights and shares impactful stories that I believe our world needs to hear.

I'm so grateful Tulsa gave me the opportunity to share my own story, and I am proud to include published my book here with the incredible assist of Tulsa Artist Fellowship and the greater Tulsa community. As a way to give back, here are some of my personal favorite local queer-owned and LGBTQ+-affirming businesses and resources that I urge you to support and share with a friend. 

Businesses

Tonsorial Barbershop

Tonsorial Barbershop is a queer-friendly barbershop providing haircuts and grooming services. The skilled barbers create a welcoming and affirming environment for all clients. 

il Seme

Il Seme is a queer-owned

[c. 1990] Tulsa Gay Block History by Tim Turner

Text

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Flash From The Past
by Tim Turner
And help from others...
When you look at some of the photos from the Playroom Club era, 1978 to 1986, it almost
seems as though everyone was happy and gay during that period in time. From what I
remember, we were. We worked hard and we played hard, enjoy most Americans at that period in
history. The end of the Free Love Era certainly was not evident in the gay club scene in the late
70's. AIDS was pretty much unknown, at least in our part of the society, life was good...spirits
were high, there was uncharted territory.
Around 1970, I got to hear excellent stories of the first known gay bars in the Tulsa area. Tropical
Gardens, as far help as the Early 40s, operated by two sisters in an old filling station; The Blue
Record Lounge located on North Denver during the 40s and 50s; The Navy Haven opened
November, 1948 by the 'much loved' Producer, Activist and Entrepreneur, the late M.C. Parker.
M.C. Parker and Tim Warren would later cultivate and produce the largest, most spectacular
Oklahoma Homosexual Event in history, the

.