They say that once you go black, you don’t go back… I think in my case it’s black leather!

This weekend was my first step into the Toronto Leather Community. I will say I was extremely nervous. People fear what they don’t know, and let’s face it, we as “vanilla” have our perceptions about the Leather Community… and those perceptions couldn’t be further from the truth!

I truly had the best time ever! I was welcomed with open arms by a community of people that treated me, not as an outsider, but as one of their own. I laughed, I cried and I learned about cigars.

It all started with the brunch at O’Grady’s, where awards were given out and introductions made to your new Mr & Ms Leather 2015, Brett Murden & Luca GasolineQueen, both of whom were so welcoming and kind to me!
I didn’t get to speak to Sprocket D’Husky though… I think he only barks.

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I met so many wonderful people and all of whom added me on Facebook, gave me phone numbers, answered questions… and all with acceptance and kindness!
Not once did I feel like I didn’t belong… Oh and I won an egg shaped masturbator at the raffle.

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Next up, we all headed over to 519 to get ready for the Leather Pride March and Sir Robert Miller gave the speech and rules like a someone out of the movie 300…

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So yes, I marched… and I did it with a big ol’ smile on my face.
There were stares and smiles from people as Rihanna’s S&M played over the speakers and this group of gorgeous misfits (in the good sense) took over Yonge Street before hitting the Black Eagle for a BBQ and some chatting.

I truly am grateful to have been welcomed by these folks and I can’t wait to keep exploring!!!

Oh and on a side note to dispel any pre-conceived notions… I saw no weird sex acts, no nudity, no dungeons and no torture.
What I did see, was a group of people that get along, that welcome others with tolerance and acceptance of whatever and whoever you may be, I didn’t feel ashamed of my body for not hitting the gym every day… so essentially what I did see, was what the Gay Community is supposed to be… a family.

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About the Author

Brandon Michael Lee is a Toronto based Award Winning Event Designer, Writer and Filmmaker. He spends his days surrounded by his two dogs, cupcakes and coffee and one day dreams of having a big fat gay wedding. While on the outside, he is a fabulous and stylish gay man… on the inside he is a tool belt wearing, shelf building, Tori Amos listening lesbian. Oh and he loves beards and tattoos. http://www.brandonmichaellee.com http://www.style-me-manly.com