"Though gay lifestyles have certainly moved into the open, there's little evidence that society has become more open in its basic attitudes or that entertainers should feel cozy in emerging from the velvet underground"

In this quote, Peter Bart is discussing the existing state of approval towards the LGBTQ+ community. He acknowledges that gay way of lives have become more noticeable and accepted in society, however argues that this does not necessarily indicate that society as a whole has ended up being more open-minded. He recommends that performers who determine as LGBTQ+ might still deal with difficulties and discrimination, regardless of the development that has been made. The phrase "velvet underground" might be a reference to the underground gay culture that existed in the past more traditional acceptance, indicating that despite the fact that things have actually enhanced, there is still a sense of secrecy and exemption for some members of the community. Overall, Bart's quote highlights the continuous battle for true approval and equality for the LGBTQ+ neighborhood.