In Toronto, a significant anniversary was honored as the city marked the 45th year since the Bathhouse Raids that shook the community. The infamous events of Feb. 5, 1981, known as ‘Operation Soap,’ saw police targeting gay men in four bathhouses, resulting in nearly 300 arrests, public outings, and widespread discrimination. Outraged citizens took to the streets in protest against the police actions, leading to a pivotal moment in Toronto’s history.
Mayor Olivia Chow, speaking at The 519 during the commemoration event, reflected on the lasting impact of the raids, acknowledging the harm caused by the dark chapter in the city’s past. The aftermath of the raids spurred a wave of activism, with the 2SLGBTQ+ community uniting to demand change and justice. Despite initial challenges, many charges were dropped, and a formal apology was issued by the Toronto police chief in 2016.
Looking ahead, a commemorative plaque will be erected in collaboration with Heritage Toronto to honor the events of 1981, aiming to highlight the progress made since the Bathhouse Raids. While significant strides have been taken towards equality, there remains a need for continued efforts to build trust between the police and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Keyphrase: Toronto Bathhouse Raids