A Colorado beer garden canceled an unauthorized dating event for unvaccinated individuals after locals expressed outrage, but event organizers claimed the venue was aware of the gathering beforehand. Recess Beer Garden in Denver stated it learned about the event, hosted by Unjected for unvaccinated singles on May 29, through social media.
Local Backlash
Denver residents, predominantly Democratic voters, urged the establishment to cancel what they termed a 'MAGA' event, warning it could become a 'measles party.' Comments on social media included concerns for staff safety and accusations of facilitating a potential outbreak. One user wrote, 'Y'all are putting your staff in danger :) you cool with that?' while another asked, 'Is this where the measles party will be orrrr?' A third commented, 'Ground zero for the next outbreak. Have a backbone!'
Event Cancellation
Following the backlash, Recess canceled the singles mixer. The beer garden emphasized it did not organize, sponsor, authorize, or book the event. In a statement, Recess said, 'We learned about it through social media, where our venue was promoted without our knowledge or involvement.' The official reasons cited were Unjected's failure to comply with event protocols and growing online hostility and safety concerns. 'The safety and well-being of our staff and guests will always come first,' the statement added.
Unjected's Response
Unjected founder Shelby Hosana told the Daily Mail that Recess was aware of the planned event and only changed course after receiving backlash. 'Once the vaccine mob came after them, they quickly changed their tune,' Hosana said. She clarified that Unjected does not book spaces beforehand due to uncertain attendance, and the event was meant to be decentralized. Hosana accused Recess of 'discriminating against them for medical decisions and their bodily autonomy to remain unvaccinated,' calling it 'blatant discrimination.'
Private Messages
Private messages shared by Unjected showed Recess acknowledging the event but stating, 'We just serve beer, man,' and clarifying they were not sponsoring it. Recess wrote, 'We work hard to maintain a neutral and welcoming atmosphere for all guests and do not want the event represented in a way that implies political or brand affiliation with Recess.'
Future Plans
Despite the cancellation, Hosana confirmed the event will be rescheduled at a new, undisclosed location, possibly a speakeasy-style gathering. 'It's not an antivax movement, it's a pro-freedom movement,' she said. Unjected has hosted events ranging from 15 to 150 people, and Hosana expects the Denver mixer to be their largest yet.
