The Queer Emporium is an LGBT+ social enterprise and café in Cardiff, Wales. It consists of a collective of over 15 local LGBT+ businesses operating in the same premises.[1] [2]
The Emporium was founded in June 2021, originally as a pop-up shop in the Morgan Arcade for that year's Pride Month.[3] However, after meeting significant success, the shop became permanent.[4] [5]
In March 2022, the Emporium announced that it would be hosting the first Queer Fringe Festival to be held in Cardiff history in Pride Month 2022.[6] Later that month, the Iris Prize announced a partnership with the Emporium to host a series of film screenings, with profits going to Trans Aid Cymru.[7]
In June 2022, the Emporium issued a statement condemning the decision by Cardiff City Council to grant a licence to a Blame Gloria cocktail bar franchise in the location next to the shop, saying that a crowded daytime drinking venue could pose safety concerns to the Emporium's customers.[8] A petition launched by the Emporium against the Council's decision gathered over 3500 signatures.[9] [10]
On the 31st of October 2022 the venue was targeted by a 17 year old neo nazi. A smoke bomb was thrown into the venue, damaging the floor. The Emporium had been targeted as it was considered a centre for the local LGBT+ community.[11] The Emporium addressed the incident with a statement on their social media, reminding the community to support queer venues.[12]
The shop was also targeted on Christmas Day, 25th of December 2023, as someone smashed their window. The shop was set to open at 4.30 to offer a space to LGBT community members during the holiday. They made an announcement about the damage, and let patrons know they might be open later than usual due to the damage.[13]