In true Footloose fashion, New York City Councilman Rafael Espinal seeks to repeal an antiquated 1926 law stating that no dancing shall occur in any venue without a notoriously difficult to obtain cabaret license. Espinal intends to abolish the New York City Cabaret Law, which disproportionately affects people of color and queer people, by introducing a bill this Wednesday. According to CBS, “The law was originally written in the prohibition era as a way to prevent interracial dancing in the city’s clubs.”

This proposed legislation would install a “night mayor,” as well as a nightlife task force and and office of nightlife to handle the city that never sleeps’ after-hours affairs. Artist collective Discwoman cofounder Frankie Decaiza Hutchinson spoke at a three-hour public hearing on Monday, where Espinal announced that he would introduce the bill. Addressing the council, Hutchinson explained, “Laws historically used to oppress people should have no place in this city or society in general.”

Check back for more developments on the abolition of the archaic law.

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