Combat Zone Demonstrations

When the city cleared Scollay Square in the early 1960s to build Government Center, many adult entertainment businesses that had operated there relocated to Chinatown. Over time this area became known as the “Combat Zone.” In 1974 the Boston Redevelopment Authority and city officials formally designated this stretch as the official adult entertainment district to curb the spread of such businesses elsewhere in the city. Residents of Chinatown opposed having the Combat Zone next to their homes, schools, and businesses, and held demonstrations to protect their community.

In the image, the sign on the left reads:

Eliminate the red light district
Combat Zone MUST GO

Chinatown Progressive Association records, courtesy of Northeastern University Archives and Special Collections.