I recently saw a post from an established member of the leather community discussing the backlash against Honey Davenport winning IML. One line in particular stuck with me:
“Drag has ALWAYS been part of the leather scene.”
That mattered to hear.
As someone slowly trying to find my way back into the community after life pulled me away for a long time, some of the reactions I’ve seen have honestly been disheartening. There’s been a lot of talk about what leather “should” look like, who belongs, and what is or isn’t “real” leather culture.
And if I’m honest, some of it feels less like community and more like gatekeeping.
The strange thing is that some of the people who look the most intimidating on the surface have often turned out to be the kindest. I know people who, geared up in full leather, could easily be mistaken for strict old-school BLUF traditionalists — yet in reality are among the warmest, most supportive and welcoming people I’ve met.
That’s the side of the leather world I want to reconnect with.
Not a version built around impossible ideals, rigid conformity, or the fear of being judged for not fitting a single mould. But a version that understands leather has always been broad, expressive, rebellious, evolving and diverse.
Because honestly? Honey Davenport looked incredible in their leather. Confident. Expressive. Completely owning who they are.
And surely that spirit of authenticity and self-expression has always belonged here too.
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