My slaveygirl and I were so fortunate, privileged, and honored to bear witness to history being passed down—and now lived in real time. We witnessed Leather family and friends (old and new) being seen, recognized, and acknowledged for the level of service they have given—and will continue to give—in this community and within their own dynamics. SouthEast LeatherFest was a phenomenal event this year.
SELF, along with other events I have attended thus far in 2025, has taught me so much. There is no one true way to be Leather. Leather traditions and protocols are to be honored, yet they can look different depending on region, house, dynamic, and the individuals building community together. Traditions are passed down through generations, and some of these traditions don’t have the origins that certain gatekeepers would have others believe. Regardless of their origins, traditions change and evolve. New meanings and reasons behind symbolic objects and actions are added over time.
Most importantly, in Leather, each of our individual journeys is apart of our history—it is valid and worthy of being told. Each event, conference, class, munch, collaring, covering, gifting, and so on is Leather history in the making. This is Leather culture. With that being said, congratulations to those who won their SELF title runs; to those whose house or organization’s crest was added to the Leather quilt; to those who were covered as Leather Masters; to those who were covered as Leather slaves; to those gifted their first vest; and to those who were acknowledged and recognized for the wonderful service that they bring.
And a side note…
Don’t you dare allow anyone who was not there to bear witness to the entirety of your journey try to invalidate your history.
Thank you to everyone who continues to show up, build, serve, and carry this culture forward.
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