The 1994 San Francisco Adult Store Protest
Local activists protested Hustler-branded adult stores, claiming they promoted sexism. Flynt defended the stores as legal businesses. This essay describes the history, context, participants, demands, outcome, and lessons learned from the protest.
On August 2nd, 1994, more than one hundred activists gathered outside the newest San Francisco location of Larry Flynt's Hustler store to protest its opening and demand that it be closed down. The group was led by local feminist activists who claimed that the store promoted sexism through its products and advertising. They argued that these stores objectified women and glamorized violence against them. Activists handed out leaflets to shoppers and passersby, encouraging them to boycott the store. Flynt defended his stores as legal businesses and argued that he had no control over what his customers did after leaving the store. He also said that people should focus on other issues if they were truly concerned about women's rights.
Activists came from various backgrounds and organizations, including women's groups, lesbian and gay advocacy groups, and religious organizations. Many of the activists felt that the stores demeaned women and sent a message that they were objects to be used for male pleasure. Some even called for a boycott of all Hustler-related products until the stores were shut down. One activist stated, "I don't think it's right to say 'buy our magazines but not others'. We're just trying to make a point."
The protest began peacefully, with activists chanting slogans and holding signs outside the store. However, things quickly turned violent when some individuals inside the store threw items at the demonstrators, causing minor injuries. Police intervened and made arrests for assault, vandalism, and trespassing. The store remained open despite the protests.
In response to the protest, Flynt released a statement saying that his stores provided adult entertainment legally and that his customers could decide for themselves how to use the products. He also noted that there were many other stores in San Francisco selling similar material. Flynt later sued the city for damages due to lost profits caused by the protest.
Despite the failed outcome, the protest was seen as a success because it brought attention to the issue of sexism in the media and advertising. It also sparked debate over censorship and freedom of speech. Today, many stores like Hustler still exist around the world, but with greater awareness of the issues raised during this protest.