ABSTRACT
The International Mr Leather (IML) is about celebration and commemoration. It is not primarily a place for political rallying and while the concept of 'pride' is present at IML, based on my observations most attendees are concerned with enjoying the experience and sexual gratification. If there is a certain type of hegemonic, hyper-masculinity at play at IML, there is also a standard of conduct. IML started in 1979 when a local Chicagoan saw the need for a leather contest and celebration of the leather lifestyle. It has numerous sponsors, including many corporate sponsors, and the organisers hold the events at a large conference-like hotel. The expo is a welcoming and an inclusive side to IML which translates into an overall diverse picture of the leather community. Some of the respondents claimed that the true history of IML has been exaggerated and that the original purpose for the event has been lost in the swirl of partying, drinking, and drugs.
