On Sunday, June 24, 1973, a gay bar in New Orleans was intentionally set ablaze, killing 32 people and injuring another 15. Fifty years later, despite ample evidence, no arrests have ever been made.In this episode, we’re taking a look at the tragic events of the UpStairs Lounge arson attack, the pervasive discrimination and homophobia evident in the aftermath, and renewed efforts to locate four of the unclaimed bodies of victims recklessly buried in an unmarked grave.Related Episodes:Listen to Episode 17. Mobsters & Mos: How the Mafia Owned Gay NightlifeListen to Episode 61. The Pulse Nightclub ShootingListen to Episode 63. The Stonewall RiotsAdditional Resources:The UpStairs Lounge Arson Attack, New Orleans: 50 Years LaterUpstairs Lounge: Gay Culture & the Metropolitan Community Church50 Years After Deadly Up Stairs Lounge Fire: New Orleans LGBTQ+ Community Still Seeks AnswersUpstairs Lounge FireArson Attack on the UpStairs LoungeUpStairs Lounge Arson AttackMetropolitan Community Church of New OrleansThe Upstairs Lounge FireThe Upstairs Lounge Fire - Luther BoggsUpstairs Lounge Fire, 1973: 32 DeathsUpstairs Lounge Arson, 1973: AftermathThis Day in History: UpStairs Lounge Arson AttackAbout the UpStairs Lounge FireThe Up Stairs Lounge Arson: Thirty-Two Deaths in a New Orleans Gay Bar, June 24, 1973 by Clayton Delery-EdwardsUpstairs Lounge Fire, 1973: In MemoriamUpstairs Lounge Fire, 1973: News CoverageThe UpStairs Lounge Fire 50th AnniversaryA ‘Forgotten Tragedy’ At a New Orleans Gay Bar and a New Effort to Honor Victims’ RemainsUnknown VictimSupport the showGet Your Merch

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