Kansas City LGBT bars plan fundraiser for victims of Orlando massacre

Six local LGBT bars and nightclubs will hold a joint fundraiser later this month to benefit the victims of the Orlando shooting.

The “KC Cares” benefit is scheduled from 3 p.m. to close June 25 at Missie B’s dance and drag bar on West 39th Street in Westport.

Missie B’s, Bistro 303, Sidekicks Saloon, Sidestreet Bar and Grill, Hamburger Mary’s and Woody’s Classic Sports Pub will co-host the event, which includes a “KC Cares” cocktail event and live performances from the Heartland Men’s Chorus, local drag queens and others throughout the day and night.

The news that a gunman had taken the lives of dozens of people at the LGBT nightclub Pulse in downtown Orlando swept the country this weekend, and local bar owners said they felt compelled to assist in the wake of the attack.

“It affects everyone,” said Jessica Dressler, 38, a performer and entertainment director at Missie B’s. “It may have been 50 people in Orlando, but we woke up with 50 less people in our community.”

Bar owners met Monday to discuss how they could help and to plan the June fundraiser. Area LGBT bars received numerous requests about how people could help, said Dressler, calling the tragedy “a time of crisis for everyone.”

Missie B’s owner Michael Burnes recalled his own experiences at the Pulse nightclub and said the welcoming, fun atmosphere where people sought the freedom to be themselves reminded him of his own club.

“This is an assault on everyone’s lifestyle and integrity,” Burnes said. “It’s a human thing.”

This story was originally published June 14, 2016 at 2:16 PM with the headline "Kansas City LGBT bars plan fundraiser for victims of Orlando massacre."