By Isabelle Dores
There’s something really powerful about walking into a place and just knowing — this is somewhere I belong. That’s what we want Java Love to be. Not just a coffee shop, but a soft landing. A safe space. Being LGBTQ+ owned is part of who we are. But more than that, it’s how we move through the world. It’s the reason we care so much about creating warm, welcoming, joyful environments — the kind where everyone is invited to show up fully, and be celebrated for exactly who they are.
It’s 2025… and safe spaces still matter.
Yes, we’ve made progress. But let’s be real — there are still far too many places where queer and trans folks don’t feel safe. Especially young people. Especially trans people. And especially at this moment. Coffee shops may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but they’re often where real life happens: first dates, friend catch-ups, deep talks, solo afternoons just existing. Those spaces should always feel safe. And when they do, it matters.
Pride Month = more than drinks (though our Pride Hotlist is delicious)
We’re so proud of our limited-time Pride Hotlist drinks this month. But Pride Month isn’t just about rainbow specials. It’s about community. It’s about showing up to amplify other voices doing the work. From the team at The Pride Center of Montclair putting on one of the most joyful suburban Pride events of the Summer to The Montclair Girl’s People to Watch cheering on the many LGBTQ+ artists, entrepreneurs, and change-makers that Make Montclair what it is. Take a scroll. These folks are the heart of this community.
So what can you do?
Support queer-owned businesses. Buy that art. Tip your barista. Show up to Pride events (like the Nishuane Pride Picnic on June 10 or House of Freya Pride Market on June 29). Vote. Amplify voices. Be a safe space for someone else. It’s all connected.
We’ll keep the coffee hot and the vibes high. You just bring your full, beautiful, unapologetic self — exactly as you are.
