Bomb Threat Evacuates Fundraiser at Pittsfield's Wander
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — An inclusive, sober cafe downtown had to be evacuated Saturday because of a bomb threat.
This interrupted a drag story hour fundraiser but organizers say they are standing strong against hate.
"To those who would attempt to sow fear — know this: you've only strengthened our resolve. Our joy is our resistance. Our love is our power. Our community will continue to rise louder, prouder, and more united," the owners of Wander (the venue), Berkshire Pride, and Drag Story Hour Berkshires wrote in a joint statement.
"We are here. And our revolution is unstoppable. Now more than ever, we call on our community and allies to take action: show up, donate your time, lend your voice, offer your resources, and stand beside us. Every act of allyship helps fortify our movement."
The Police Department responded to Wander, located on Depot Street, just after 8:30 p.m. on Saturday for a bomb threat. It was found to be a false threat that reportedly came from outside of the country.
"The establishment was evacuated without incident. The incident was investigated by PPD as well as the Mass State Police," Police Capt. Matthew Hill confirmed on Monday via email.
"It was determined to be a false threat. It appears that the threat was a 'swatting' attempt directed at the event at Wander and originated from outside the US."
The "Drag Story Hour Extravaganza" fundraiser began at 7 p.m. to celebrate inclusivity, literacy, and the one-year anniversary of Drag Story Hour Berkshires. The age 18 and older even included "cheeky storytelling, adult crafts, prizes, raffles, and stunning performances by your favorite drag storytellers, as we come together to raise funds that will help bring more inclusive events and books to the Berkshires community," according to Wander's website.
The joint release said in the face of fear and intimidation, the community did what it always does: gathered, showed up, and celebrated unapologetically.
"Although new and continuing threats are made, our joy was not dimmed, and our mission remains unwavering. Attempts to silence or scare us only reveal why our visibility, pride, and presence are more crucial than ever," it read.
"Our community rallied together — dancing, laughing, and lifting each other up. We are part of an irresistible revolution: one powered by love, fueled by joy, and rooted in the unshakable belief that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and free. Action is the antidote to fear. By standing together, continuing to create vibrant and safe spaces, and refusing to be pushed into the shadows, we send a clear message: We are not afraid. We are not going anywhere."
Wander Berkshires is a queer and transgender-founded, recovery-focused cafe that has established itself as a community hub since opening in the fall. A ribbon cutting in January officially celebrated the business that is a cafe by day and an event space at night.
"It's a community space, first and foremost," founder Jay Santangelo said at the ribbon cutting.
"… This is like, magical, especially considering everything that's going on in the world right now. I wanted everybody to know that this is a safe place for all, no matter who you are, and everybody is welcome here."
The cafe will soon host a community darkroom with help from MassDevelopment funds. Wander is a part of the Transformative Development Initiative's Creative Catalyst Cohort which received $125,000 for a Downtown Pittsfield Creative Alliance.
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