Graph Legend
5 Events
3 Places
1 People
6 Titles
October 31 Toronto Despite promises […]
When
1979-10-31
Description
October 31 Toronto Despite promises to control and disperse the crowd, police failed to prevent a violent, homophobic mob from gathering on Halloween evening on Yonge Street in front of the St. Charles Tavern. Almost 2,000 people gathered on the street, throwing eggs and chanting "Kill the queers." The Yonge Street entrance to the bar was actually closed; patrons entered by the back alley door, which was heavily guarded by police. At least 103 people in the mob were arrested, most of whom were charged with breach of the peace. A volunteer gay defence patrol, Operation Jack O'Lantern, spent the evening escorting gays and lesbians through the neighbourhood, and became involved in at least one altercation. On the same night, drag personality Riki Tick hosted a private Halloween party, "Fantasy Follies," held at the Masonic Temple.
