I am so disappointed with the decision of Chuck Renslow and the IML Executive Committee for this bigoted, discriminatory choice they have made. As adults, It was my belief that we had freedom of choice as far as what we do with our bodies. So does Chuck plan on changing all of his Pro-Choice positions, or just this one? Choosing to further marginalize a major segment of Leather folk seems to be part of another self serving interest on the part of the IML Executive Committee and Chuck Renslow. I had intended on going to IML for 2010, but would rather spend my money where I can feel more welcome and less marginalized.
Here is the letter as addressed to potential vendors:
"Dear Vendors:
On behalf of International Mr. Leather, Inc., I would like to thank you for your past support and in particular for your participation as a vendor in our annual Leather Market. We are writing you today to inform you of a policy change affecting next year (2010) and all future markets.
Though we are now three decades into the HIV/AIDS epidemic, no cure has been found. The CDC and local health officials inform us that new infections are on the rise. And, while we have had some success developing medications that might make infection more manageable, that accomplishment comes at a price. Not having experienced the deaths - the loss of loved ones -- which preceded these medications, we have an entire generation who may not fully appreciate or comprehend the severity of the situation.
Too many in our community believe HIV/AIDS is curable or manageable. Too few understand that HIV/AIDS infections dominate life. We believe that it is our duty to inform and educate. Several years ago when "Meth" was the scourge of our community, IML drew a line in the sand and raised awareness and used all our influence to try and stop this addictive madness. As is the case with HIV/AIDS, we believe it is our further obligation to do everything in our power to prevent future infections.
To that end, after considerable discussion, the Executive Committee of International Mr. Leather has decided that it will no longer allow participation in the IML Leather Market by any entity which promotes barebacking or distributes/sells any merchandise tending to promote or advocate barebacking. This restriction will also apply to distribution of gifts, post cards or any other information via our facilities.
This policy takes effect immediately."
Needless to say, this has created quite a stir throughout the community and the different sub-cultures within. While I certainly agree with SOME of his assertions, and in a capitalist society, I support his right to do business as he sees fit and choose his business partners, I too have some choices, as do you.
I believe, like many, that his letter is uninformed and misleading. If we further marginalize ourselves within our community, how can we expect anything less from the wacky Reverend Phelps supporters of the world? This ban for me is far less about a health issue, which we all should be quite aware of already. This is more about CENSORSHIP and FREEDOM OF CHOICE. This is a slippery slope that can lead to him selecting, with the endorsement of religious groups, further marginalization of other subcultures and fetishes in the community. What is next? Water sports, breath control, no mind fuck material, no flogging...as that could all be considered abusive and 'unsafe'. Nevermind that consenting adults legally have the right to pursue these things.
Perhaps Mr Renslow, et al would prefer we subscribe to his "Group Think" mentality and only fit neatly in to his box of acceptable behaviors, politics, and business model...Perhaps Mr. Renslow will also be placing his Condom Only policy in effect as his bath house, Man's Country, and his basement at the Eagle along with a staff of Condom Police? Perhaps he would just prefer all the consenting barebackers frequent SteamWorks instead, and stay away from the the Eagle and out of Man's Country? This might help him fit in better with the mainstream and whatever else in on his agenda.
As previously mentioned, I had planned on attending the 2010 IML event. Particularly, since it would be 15 years since I won the thing. Unless the policy changes, I will stand by this decision and encourage others to thumb their nose at what has become more of a circuit party than a leather event anyway. There are plenty of other venues around the world to have a good time with like minded people over the Memorial Day Holiday. There are also much less expensive places to party, such as Orlando and Ft Lauderdale, Florida. The weather is better down here and the men are just as hot and fun as anywhere else in the country.
Well, that's my rant for now. Feel free to leave a comment. I'll follow Chuck Renslow's example and censor those I choose....LOL!
Larry Everett
Consenting Barebacker
International Mr. Leather 1995
