GI Coffeehouses

GI Coffeehouses are establishments that originated during the Vietnam War era, primarily in the United States, serving as venues for soldiers and veterans to gather, express dissent, and share their experiences away from the military hierarchy. These coffeehouses emerged as part of the larger anti-war movement and played a significant role in fostering free speech, civil rights, and opposition to military policies among the armed forces.

History

The first GI coffeehouse, the UFO Coffeehouse, was established near Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina in 1967. This initiative was followed by others, including the Oleo Strut in Killeen, Texas, near Fort Hood, and the Covered Wagon in Tacoma, Washington, near Fort Lewis. These establishments were often named after military terms or equipment, symbolically repurposing military culture for anti-war efforts.

GI coffeehouses provided a safe space for active-duty soldiers, veterans, and their supporters to engage in open discussions, access anti-war literature, and participate in educational programs. They hosted a variety of events, including music performances, poetry readings, and political debates, which helped to build a community among those who were critical of the war and military policies.

Role in the Anti-War Movement

The GI coffeehouses played a crucial role in the anti-war movement by facilitating the spread of anti-war sentiment among the military ranks. They served as hubs for the distribution of underground newspapers and literature that challenged the official narratives of the war and exposed issues such as racism within the military, the impact of the war on Vietnamese civilians, and the reasons behind U.S. involvement in Vietnam.

These establishments also supported soldiers in organizing protests, filing for conscientious objector status, and resisting orders they deemed unjust. The coffeehouses were instrumental in the development of the GI Rights Movement, which sought to protect the rights and well-being of military personnel.

Challenges and Legacy

GI coffeehouses faced significant opposition from military authorities and some segments of the public. They were often subjected to surveillance, harassment, and legal challenges in an effort to shut them down. Despite these obstacles, many coffeehouses managed to operate throughout the Vietnam War and into the 1970s, providing crucial support to the anti-war movement within the military.

The legacy of GI coffeehouses extends beyond the Vietnam War era. They are remembered as important institutions that challenged the status quo, supported soldiers in questioning authority, and contributed to the broader movements for peace and social justice. Today, the concept of the GI coffeehouse has been revived in some areas to support troops involved in more recent conflicts, continuing the tradition of providing a space for critical discussion and community building among military personnel.

See Also

• Vietnam War
• Anti-war movement
• Civil rights movement
• Free speech movements
• GI Rights Movement