LGBT Paper 'Washington Blade' To File For Bankruptcy And Close

Washington Blade, the oldest LGBT newspaper in the United States, is to close its operations and file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which implies liquidation rather than reorganization. Washington Blade reported on LGBT issues across the nation and internationally. This year marked the 40th anniversary of the paper's existence. Washington Blade's website is down and inaccessible at the moment.

The employees of Washington Blade are planning to start a new publication under a different name.

As yet another sign of the times, the announcement of the newspaper's closure was made on Twitter. The message read, "Washington Blade, like all Window Media publications, is closing today. Thank you for your support."

Later, another Tweet was issued, saying, "To everyone who's expressing gratitude, love and support: Thank you. You're helping stem the tears."

Just seven hours ago, the paper posted its last Tweet with an update on the situation, claiming Washington Blade's former staff is "united and ready to continue the paper's long-standing mission." The update says that the paper's staff will gather for first meeting of the new venture as early as Tuesday.

As the largest LGBT newspaper in the country is closing down, many are wondering if the LGBT issues will receive as much coverage.

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