CPH film professor mixes passions to create women’s sports bar
With a rooftop view overlooking Arcata, lively music and friendly smiles fill The Summitt as a place to wind down and have some fun. The Summitt’s purple parameter brings a pop of color to G street and is easy to spot.
Michelle “Trey” Cartier got their bachelors in art and film at Cal Poly Humboldt in 2001 and later became a film and art professor on campus. Mixing their different passions led to the creation of The Summitt, a women’s sports bar featuring a digital art and film gallery. The Summitt was established in 2021 and they officially opened their doors, selling drinks in January 2023. Their intention of creating The Summitt was to make an inclusive space for different communities to coexist. Cartier blends different passions to inspire conversation amongst people from different walks of life.
“Im a philosopher, a thinker, that likes to just mix things that you don’t usually think of mixing together to advocate for stronger human space, that in itself is abolition,” Cartier said.
The Summitt’s name serves as a tribute to Pat Summitt, a famous women’s college basketball coach who believed in excellence and reaching for your fullest potential. With this in mind, Cartier wants to center and empower trans athletes, women and the queer community.
“To be able to crossconnect, is a sense of real activism, really walking the talk, radical accountability, so if I have the opportunity to create this space, that’s what I’m going to do,” Cartier said. “Also the luxury and the humble capability to mix these things, which I think are new spaces to mix humans that don’t often mix.”
Cartier visions for The Summitt started in 2021, as a result of third spaces disappearing due to the pandemic. Their goal is to bring back queer third spaces where people can be humans in a space where they feel affirmed, elevated and inspired.
Attendee, Corrie Leyba, appreciated The Summitt’s inviting atmosphere at one of their movie parties, showcasing “Jennifer’s Body”.
“Great vibes and owner is so nice and made us feel so welcomed,” Leyba said.
Whether you spend your time teck-decking, watching sports, or laughing with friends, Cartier wants to ensure that everyone feels safe to be themselves. So kick back, relax and enjoy sipping on some cider, beer, or a non-alcoholic drink while watching a game. If you’re 21 or older, the Summit is definitely a spot worth checking out!
The Summitt is located at 1507 G street and is open Fridays 4-8 p.m., Saturdays 12-8 p.m. and Sundays 12-6 p.m., but rest assured, if a game is still on they’re probably still open.
