tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31194899972509832972024-03-13T09:01:11.942-07:00The Leather Identity ProjectUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-33439291559428066562013-02-06T12:52:00.000-08:002013-02-07T07:26:41.654-08:00Castity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32PhyDKpA6y6WbKIK11APaXGdizHYEwUBcGSz4hJdmgNb009k6_6igwy-KCDF2w3jinZDpCE2IYaJLMP4nOVedwMwlIf9ogdRPI3ucK3XQ-xa1Hy5KX9uBGGk7AdDKdbpQCO9ym-Eqx5-/s1600/chastity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32PhyDKpA6y6WbKIK11APaXGdizHYEwUBcGSz4hJdmgNb009k6_6igwy-KCDF2w3jinZDpCE2IYaJLMP4nOVedwMwlIf9ogdRPI3ucK3XQ-xa1Hy5KX9uBGGk7AdDKdbpQCO9ym-Eqx5-/s1600/chastity.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Why is it hot?</span></b></div>
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Those that enjoy chastity enjoy that feeling that comes from being horned up. There is an energy to that sexual feeling that can be very gratifying. I find that I reach my peek of sexual frustration around two weeks and I become more interested in pleasing another man as it builds. There is some sexual release in physical contact and helping someone else get off. My submission comes to a head when I'm on edge. I reached out to Altairboy from <a href="http://tpe.com/~altarboy/" target="_blank">Altairboy's Chastity Site</a>, an excellent and comprehensive resource on chastity, for his perspective and he agreed by saying:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #222222;">"Without a </span><span style="color: #222222;">willing partner in the chastity "play" the whole exercise would be sorely </span><span style="color: #222222;">lacking. I mean, honestly, where is the fun in solo play?"</span></blockquote>
Those Doms reading this should take note, you can keep a boy locked in chastity much longer if you see him from time to time and require more than simply being locked. There is more responsibility to being a key-holder than simply holding the key. Some people seek out "cyber key-holders," and get their stimulation through web cams or simple lack of access to their "junk," but it's never the same as having a key-holder you see regularly. It's the Dom's job to torment, stimulate, and ramp up the sexual frustration as high as possible. If the Dom allows the locked boy to serve him/her regularly the sky can be the limit. That service doesn't need to be physical. Making the boy keep himself shaved, cut his hair the way you like, do your laundry, clean your house, watch porn, chat with guys on sex sites, or even requiring him to hook up with no release can all be very exciting. The boy is far less likely to cheat and figure out how to get off while in chastity or remove the device without your permission if he knows that you are part of the process.<br />
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If you want to go for long term chastity you must keep in mind that occasional <a href="http://www.mademan.com/mm/how-milk-your-prostate.html" target="_blank">prostate milking</a> might be necessary. I'm fortunate in that excess semen comes out when I pee after a while, but the prostate does need to drain itself from time to time. Done correctly, milking isn't the same as an orgasm, everything just kinda globs out. The chastity device doesn't even need to be removed first. This does however temporarily reduce the sexual frustration, which makes building it back up all the better.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUq_GJxK0q52bZIVTyUS7GktGDYbYOU9B5V5Hyt0Qlpt-dI64sr9ssyX0Qul-OFI7xo9Qhpf3N9m0P_DWztqZly0Kq9VuRNhAUxBo8NvrDY96Cj6yS7uGeRr72fww5WiirlfAY9wyIjWC/s1600/playchst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Choosing a Device</span></b></div>
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There are three basic types of chastity devices. All devices have their advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day the wearer and key-holder have to decide what their chastity goal is.<br />
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<b>Ball-Capture Devices</b></div>
<img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLtqK-clk_8aF1NzbC3l1RmnqFlVFQbhl4JK2HzNUYBK5pvQYsbLhDTw3CvmZWXx5EtM9FCwtuK6C_6xrJRyZWFGtL7u1RbK76sNjG5LauKNHgHn6lVsxUOTRuMaVEx2gqM6aT1bU0sgk/s1600/bcapt.jpg" style="height: 200px; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
These devices work by trapping the penis in a tube
and are held in place by holding the balls between a ring
and the penis tube. This style was made popular by
the <a data-blogger-escaped-target="_blank" href="http://cb-x.com/">cb-2000
and subsequent models from cb-x.com</a>. They
can be made of plastic, metal, silicone, or leather. None
of these devices are foolproof, but they do have the
advantage of long term comfort, easier hygiene
and relative invisibility under clothing. Proper
sizing is a necessity when putting one of these
devices on. Most have different options with rings and
tube size, so measuring is a must.</div>
<br /></td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">"Traditional" Metal Belts</b><br />
<img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizHWsf0EaQYTQUXAp6n53aDeRFfnbkzjJKAC5HieFfQeNi1HSfmwgHgavL_-rUPRy55tAQM67dFQq2VKwOXWSRoStOkZEx_IH_qjbFTZRLnL6G1RVkjJvdn-iITDvl6GRBFQ7M_KHSzmln/s1600/metal.jpg" style="height: 200px; width: 200px;" /><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Metal belts are the mac daddy
of chastity. These devices can be worn indefinitely with
fewer comfort concerns. The down side is that they are
expensive, difficult to properly adjust to the
wearers anatomy, and not conducive to an active
lifestyle. Most chastity subs dream of owning one of these
devices some day. There are many instances of these
devices being worn for months at a time
without interruption. Hybrid versions of these
devices have merged the metal belt with a plastic device
with limited results. Despite the downsides, these
devices are the best option for long term chastity.</span></div>
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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 200px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Play" Chastity
Devices</span><br />
<img alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUq_GJxK0q52bZIVTyUS7GktGDYbYOU9B5V5Hyt0Qlpt-dI64sr9ssyX0Qul-OFI7xo9Qhpf3N9m0P_DWztqZly0Kq9VuRNhAUxBo8NvrDY96Cj6yS7uGeRr72fww5WiirlfAY9wyIjWC/s1600/playchst.jpg" style="height: 200px; width: 200px;" /><br />
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Possibly the hottest category
to look at and try on. These devices come in leather,
metal, and rubber. They are rarely functional for long
term wear, but great for extended play sessions. <a href="http://www.mr-s-leather.com/area/12/chastity-devices.html?id=qS95fhgE" target="_blank">Mr. S</a> has
an extensive collection of these devices to look at and
lust after. Unlike the other two categories, these devices
can't always be worn under clothing, make going to the
bathroom difficult or impossible, and can be made of
materials that don't work for daily wear. These
limitations don't diminish how hot these devices can be.
Their relative short term comfort make them perfect to
play in.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Daily Wear</b></span></div>
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Chastity Subs develop many systems for keeping their chastity experience as pleasant as possible. Cleanliness and comfort are the biggest issue for wearers of chastity devices. This advice is for wearers of ball-capture devices, as they are what I have the most experience with.</div>
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<li>LUBE, LUBE, LUBE! lubricant is your friend. It allows your penis to move up and down the tube as it tries to get hard and prevents the ring from hurting the underside of your balls. Apply it regularly especially at night. I've always used <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=gun+oil&aq=f&oq=gun+oil&aqs=chrome.0.57j5j0l2j62l2.1554&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#hl=en&tbm=shop&sclient=psy-ab&q=gun+oil+silicone&oq=gun+oil+silicone&gs_l=serp.3...5367.9482.3.9717.16.16.0.0.0.0.92.859.16.16.0.cpsugrpq2high..0.0...1.1.2.serp.cACNJsCe2Kc&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.r_qf.&bvm=bv.41867550,d.dmQ&fp=d5dedf2d242b3d00&biw=1236&bih=632" target="_blank">silicone based lube</a>, but I've heard good things about <a href="http://mineral%20oil/" target="_blank">mineral oil</a>. Do not use water based lubes, they won't last long enough.</li>
<li>Older <a href="http://cb-x.com/cb_3000_details.html" target="_blank">cb-3000</a> models comes with a hinged rings. Thankfully this has been corrected with newer models. If you have a 3000 you've never been able to do more than a day or two in, do yourself a favor and get your hands on a set of <a href="http://cb-x.com/cb6k3.html" target="_blank">cb-2000 rings</a>. They will make the whole experience MUCH BETTER.</li>
<li>Air holes make cleaning easier, but over time they become an issue. Sensitive flesh pops out and gets pinched. Save yourself the hassle and put a small piece of <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=mediacal+tape&oq=mediacal+tape&aqs=chrome.0.57j0l3.2651&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#hl=en&biw=1236&bih=632&tbm=shop&sclient=psy-ab&q=white+medical+tape&oq=white+medical+tape&gs_l=serp.3...234.1071.2.1874.6.1.5.0.0.0.131.131.0j1.1.0.cpsugrpq2high..0.0...1.1.2.serp.1BWM6oh8Ibs&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.r_qf.&bvm=bv.41867550,d.dmQ&fp=d5dedf2d242b3d00" target="_blank">medical tape</a> over the holes each morning. You can easily remove it to clean out and it saves the embarrassment of getting pinched while in public and not being able to address it.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.qtips.com/" target="_blank">Q-tips</a> are your friends. Carry some with you all the time. They can help apply more lubricant inside your tube, clean out disgusting dried gunk after your hornyness has resulted in constant pre-cum, and adjust your sensitive bits if things end up where they shouldn't be.</li>
<li>Buy a <a href="http://www.forttroff.com/shower-shot_list" target="_blank">shower shot</a> or something like it. Before I had one of these I used to lie on my back and scooch up to the bath faucet to get water inside my cage to rinse out. Now I can just spray out. It's much higher pressure and feels amazing, though with no release.</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Related Fetishes</b></span></div>
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Chastity pairs with several other fetishes very well. Some mundane, relatively speaking, and some extreme. I may explore some of these fetishes in more depth in the future, but for now I'm give an overview and send you to some great resources.</div>
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<li><b>Cuckolding: </b>Do you get jealous? What if you could channel that jealousy into sexual gratification? Cucks or cuckolds get off by watching their partner have sex with someone else, or have their partner tell them about sex with other people. Cuckolding is more popular in strait kinky circles. Sometimes there is a D/s element, sometimes chastity is enforced, but the idea is that they are "less than" the one who is having sexual access to their partner. <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2010/07/29/cuckolding-the-sex-fetish-for-intellectuals.html" target="_blank">(Resource: "Cuckolding: The sex fetish for intellectuals")</a></li>
<li><b>Forced Feminization: </b>Like cuckolding, forced feminization is more popular with strait people. The idea is that a man can be reduced by being "forced" to dress or act like a woman. It's common to see a man in panties, hose and garters while also locked in chastity. It all plays into a symbolic removal of his manhood and an expectation that he focus on his partner's sexual needs before his own. <a href="http://www.lockedinlace.com/essays/forcedfeminization.html" target="_blank">(Resource: "Forced Feminization 101")</a></li>
<li><b>Castration: </b>Nothing makes a man squirm more than the thought of something happening to his junk. Most would be surprised that castration is a common fetish. Men can be focused on the scene which results in the removal of their testicles or the realities of living life afterwards. The castrated male will see an immediate drop in his sex drive, weight gain, and other physical side effects unless he opts to take replacement hormones. Humiliation and a desire to serve without distraction is often a factor for subs. <a href="http://www.eunuch.org/forums/showthread.php?5970-Newsweek-Story" target="_blank">(Resource: "The Unkindest Cut")</a></li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-65864964769674419142013-01-02T04:20:00.000-08:002013-01-02T04:20:28.264-08:00DATA: Race in the Leather Community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54jVZYVeHSdYOWmP0X7wk8P5Z4IHjHJcuBobndoBqRZSfJ6h9XtzpQsXpN1WiftwGtkYBNFT6s2gWuc8fMEKKgcIUJSP3pNnqC1ItM2Kepz7sA-RbozddVkp1QJGSdBwQWPrF8vZz_5lx/s1600/race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54jVZYVeHSdYOWmP0X7wk8P5Z4IHjHJcuBobndoBqRZSfJ6h9XtzpQsXpN1WiftwGtkYBNFT6s2gWuc8fMEKKgcIUJSP3pNnqC1ItM2Kepz7sA-RbozddVkp1QJGSdBwQWPrF8vZz_5lx/s1600/race.jpg" /></a></div>
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Race is a touchy subject. I wanted to approach this topic sensitively while also providing relevant information. I'd like to begin by apologizing for my language choices in this report. "White participants," "other races," and "non-white" are an unfortunate side effects of reducing information to numbers. I am very aware that differences between individuals from different racial and cultural backgrounds can be significant, but when reviewing the data I was ultimately exploring how white and non-white members of the community answered these questions differently.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihm7s_D43nxWDkv5086RCzTW9DFEZSG-DaE7BUNClTCdFRlojK7fYjVJCLURouaMT7qzEqp7eKCyy0POlO7P6kThea32OcK9Y_gZMKF-cDkbU11Ds3yQ_CFaPLTyCzPpFfsZHSOAc2DXqy/s1600/age.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihm7s_D43nxWDkv5086RCzTW9DFEZSG-DaE7BUNClTCdFRlojK7fYjVJCLURouaMT7qzEqp7eKCyy0POlO7P6kThea32OcK9Y_gZMKF-cDkbU11Ds3yQ_CFaPLTyCzPpFfsZHSOAc2DXqy/s1600/age.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The lack of older survey participants from other races suggests that they haven't always been a part of the leather scene. This isn't surprising, but it is promising that age proportions are so similar across the board. There is a slight dip of younger participation of non-white participants suggesting that they enter the scene later in life than their white counterparts.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1cXRYAfgPhkxozPWaJhfB6ZFD1DEVcQ9W1SLniBr6sgiyOuzHtsUrhmzAEgp8FDgaAjSckm1_P4RuH_XxGJBwUJmhvrdULVVyVZXmZ0XmsHknkaxgbLERmzYOTg0qRu2jZHAs9hfGA1R/s1600/sex+role.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1cXRYAfgPhkxozPWaJhfB6ZFD1DEVcQ9W1SLniBr6sgiyOuzHtsUrhmzAEgp8FDgaAjSckm1_P4RuH_XxGJBwUJmhvrdULVVyVZXmZ0XmsHknkaxgbLERmzYOTg0qRu2jZHAs9hfGA1R/s1600/sex+role.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Interestingly enough, white members of the community are more likely to identify as submissive. Past surveys have suggested that individuals are less likely to identify as submissive as they get older, so this difference is possibly a result of other races entering the community at a later age.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZvZTJRh7ebKA6SyWRvyXPCHzm7nPU7O2wdLmnIrT94eHTfkNwLQbmXGuyYMFsmvVU2mF7jmyrkmJlNUhdp76TUlnfjq5LCTn0bKjj5GuDGqzMCeFel9oATNsvnsBearFu4W_Ks4o7ft-/s1600/club.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZvZTJRh7ebKA6SyWRvyXPCHzm7nPU7O2wdLmnIrT94eHTfkNwLQbmXGuyYMFsmvVU2mF7jmyrkmJlNUhdp76TUlnfjq5LCTn0bKjj5GuDGqzMCeFel9oATNsvnsBearFu4W_Ks4o7ft-/s1600/club.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Once involved, non-white members of the community are significantly more </span><span style="font-size: small;">likely</span><span style="font-size: small;"> to be members or associates of a leather club. Which of course explains why they are also more </span><span style="font-size: small;">likely</span><span style="font-size: small;"> to consider the leather scene to be a significant part of their social lives.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnQmjRMSDydHpXmiz9Wjn9QXvAh0NKXDf2E0tIhQtRoxewdEfXG2ufmY8wGIoQxms488nEqHCxj5Xr6Sgr8K1cMNt8qCUG99OVXBAepdCL-9sdv3-X1fsmBvQRwSCiYoEgBYnE4MuIX2E/s1600/sociallife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnQmjRMSDydHpXmiz9Wjn9QXvAh0NKXDf2E0tIhQtRoxewdEfXG2ufmY8wGIoQxms488nEqHCxj5Xr6Sgr8K1cMNt8qCUG99OVXBAepdCL-9sdv3-X1fsmBvQRwSCiYoEgBYnE4MuIX2E/s1600/sociallife.jpg" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmKB1iQ4wcX824AMABnHOh0VT0RMdgCv-104pb-M-7r9eqe1neQpWEMI8WNjO2kxyXjaMbfa3nmssl6nw0tXMotWYGKi0CSi_Pa3JTQpAZUqGzleQT8KpQ6bojcS3KGJMvncEjguxy1EA/s1600/friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmKB1iQ4wcX824AMABnHOh0VT0RMdgCv-104pb-M-7r9eqe1neQpWEMI8WNjO2kxyXjaMbfa3nmssl6nw0tXMotWYGKi0CSi_Pa3JTQpAZUqGzleQT8KpQ6bojcS3KGJMvncEjguxy1EA/s1600/friends.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Other races who contributed to the survey are more likely to socialize outside of their race than white survey participants. This is especially true within the scene. That said, a majority of all participating races tend to socialize within their own race.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VtQPO6IhPh5hwsrf40E6F160TVB_TApxBTrOBsBaO1zjQkrcKW1g9eHryvr560hceQPcPchGcyqkxPHsmFBGqq5pqq4Edj23ktVR9ijv-lsIfdWDC_zVug2ZfW0QTUYM9VW6UPeMetf3/s1600/attracted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VtQPO6IhPh5hwsrf40E6F160TVB_TApxBTrOBsBaO1zjQkrcKW1g9eHryvr560hceQPcPchGcyqkxPHsmFBGqq5pqq4Edj23ktVR9ijv-lsIfdWDC_zVug2ZfW0QTUYM9VW6UPeMetf3/s1600/attracted.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Physical attraction isn't something most people have any direct control over. We develop our tastes over time. I've found that my attraction to individuals outside of my own race have increased as my social circle has become more diverse. Irrational prejudices are harder to hold onto once they are contradicted repeatedly. Many white people are not attracted to individuals outside of their race. The "depends on which race" option only indicates that some races are not "off limits." </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0eXfq7UGnhIC2V3F3cF4_g_E3uNkN3ntq1HYjnPWb111D-Gfz01X8I7bFQ1_Ds0L76JPa1JJftDlww2bUJuPtkVvj-Cg_46_gEaxB2qwlBLIps6aPUkQj1PSzh5-fQGI6lohNuL0-xk0/s1600/hookup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0eXfq7UGnhIC2V3F3cF4_g_E3uNkN3ntq1HYjnPWb111D-Gfz01X8I7bFQ1_Ds0L76JPa1JJftDlww2bUJuPtkVvj-Cg_46_gEaxB2qwlBLIps6aPUkQj1PSzh5-fQGI6lohNuL0-xk0/s1600/hookup.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eMNnI9jukTKtB5UKEA8iiQEfTIPE2O6O916c6egN3fk3n04dguWVGPcaHDBymgeWbRw7ZFKc8J51wgHCwWZMWMiYqKa_K8V88KmBmGSjy2RQzKmxsSqm5bY_6onA20EOHqowTjwkUBKJ/s1600/jim-crow-douche.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eMNnI9jukTKtB5UKEA8iiQEfTIPE2O6O916c6egN3fk3n04dguWVGPcaHDBymgeWbRw7ZFKc8J51wgHCwWZMWMiYqKa_K8V88KmBmGSjy2RQzKmxsSqm5bY_6onA20EOHqowTjwkUBKJ/s320/jim-crow-douche.jpeg" width="205" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.douchebagsofgrindr.com/</td></tr>
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I used this question to give me an alternative way of explore the last one. Wording is a difficult sometimes. Many of us these sites more for cruising than hooking up, despite our best efforts to achieve the latter. Physical attraction is the driver of these sites since it reduces everyone to a tiny pic. When exploring attraction in this way it seems that everyone shares similar prejudices. </div>
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I would like to preach about one thing. Members of my own race are fare more likely to qualify their profiles like the one on the left. Although we may not have direct control of who we're into, there is no reason we need to be assholes about it. <a href="http://www.douchebagsofgrindr.com/" target="_blank">Douchebags of grinder</a> is a fun way to tease these asses. There, I'm getting off my soap box.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgnnrGaKAzDeQ0wO8hG9kM0RwARb9k9ca_zl_LHLFpggcnF2GgzIRJlecwaSjeB10jueaOc0-Jv_tPQNLsFgn0yVr8xlBKgyI6x78vQ8useidQqcLmRYK7Mv6RYSZvRGHpR30Sk4A8Mbn/s1600/awair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgnnrGaKAzDeQ0wO8hG9kM0RwARb9k9ca_zl_LHLFpggcnF2GgzIRJlecwaSjeB10jueaOc0-Jv_tPQNLsFgn0yVr8xlBKgyI6x78vQ8useidQqcLmRYK7Mv6RYSZvRGHpR30Sk4A8Mbn/s1600/awair.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was surprised how many participants were </span><span style="font-size: small;">unaware</span><span style="font-size: small;"> of racial prejudices in their daily life. I'm sure there are instances where they are </span><span style="font-size: small;">perceived</span><span style="font-size: small;"> but not actually present. The fact that I notice them in myself regularly is telling. All people have prejudices, it's a fact of life. Being </span><span style="font-size: small;">aware</span><span style="font-size: small;"> of them is the only way to fight them.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8JlSXHixZ6wnOkCnXJevOCszkf4D-6vXWgjvOpvuo2yC29kO9R1e8CmjlfywwsTAbs8K7dp6kk7yjvT66t-vSXYHktZ_ttemRyGujQZjfAL67th-Nx6yfHzbFIw1DpCHahf6WOl9mGcz/s1600/prejudices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8JlSXHixZ6wnOkCnXJevOCszkf4D-6vXWgjvOpvuo2yC29kO9R1e8CmjlfywwsTAbs8K7dp6kk7yjvT66t-vSXYHktZ_ttemRyGujQZjfAL67th-Nx6yfHzbFIw1DpCHahf6WOl9mGcz/s1600/prejudices.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Optimism is a wonderful thing, or perhaps I'm just cynical. Hopefully this is at least partially true. Maybe the scene is more aware and therefore better. I'm thinking not. We can at least make reducing racial prejudices a priority.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo8JlSXHixZ6wnOkCnXJevOCszkf4D-6vXWgjvOpvuo2yC29kO9R1e8CmjlfywwsTAbs8K7dp6kk7yjvT66t-vSXYHktZ_ttemRyGujQZjfAL67th-Nx6yfHzbFIw1DpCHahf6WOl9mGcz/s1600/prejudices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-vvh8vly05Hec7VsDV15tE-wu1txBCLw0PYowtiXSvp0GIjxtwO2dGi9OUCFFgtnLUiXnHW2_GprJMoGiHn0VGsmDHxoW-CKVGeRBszCnuM9QKvVBb9RG8qV23J84UsZUBWl-BmhynNw/s1600/goto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-vvh8vly05Hec7VsDV15tE-wu1txBCLw0PYowtiXSvp0GIjxtwO2dGi9OUCFFgtnLUiXnHW2_GprJMoGiHn0VGsmDHxoW-CKVGeRBszCnuM9QKvVBb9RG8qV23J84UsZUBWl-BmhynNw/s1600/goto.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The fact that so many participants of other races see their race as an influence of wether they will attend an event or go to a bar is telling. As a community, the leather scene is always talking about brining in young people. Just as we need to be a little less stodgy to make that happen we also need to be actively inviting to people of different races and backgrounds. Clubs like <a href="http://www.onyxmen.com/" target="_blank">ONYX</a> have made a wonderful contribution in this area. Members of their DC chapter often make me feel more welcomed than I do at the events of some other DC clubs. We're all in this to get our rocks off, so lets make it a fun and welcoming place to get it on.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdFlYY3FsaU5CRW5VYV8wZGQ5aHVRckE#gid=0" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" target="_blank">- review unedited data -</a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">"as to this survey it was very good presentation.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">When the question concerning race i am personally into all different race of people within the leather community or not.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">I look at each person heart. character to how i will deal with or allow them into my social circle. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">As to prejudices in the leather community it can be about 50/50 each person has there own personal choice that they wish to play with at the time. I respect about the leather community when it come to playing or having a BDSM relationship. Some are 1 on 1 other are polyandrous. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">Every one does not fit the same mold at all it all about communicating the roles they want to take on with me or not. Its apart of the Negotiation process. "</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Had to re-read this question a number of times before I answered... "Generally speaking, are you physically attracted to individuals not of the same race as yourself?" You might consider rewording: "Generally speaking, are you physically attracted to individuals of a different race than yourself?"</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Race hasn't been much of an issue (in my opinion), as "leather-phobia" has been within the LGBT community. There has been much fear, confusion, and stereotyping about the leather community by the wider gay community -- that is, there are a large number of gay men who fear men who wear leather or expect all leathermen to behave and act the same way -- like we're all into BDSM. I have to admit, some leathermen have demonstrated prejudices against effeminate gay men. Two-way street doesn't condone the behavior of either side. Can't we all just get along?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">"On the question about being ""physically attracted to individuals of a different race"":</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I wish the question were worded differently. I answered ""Yes,"" because some of the guys I'm attracted to are of other races — but their race is not the reason. I don't fetishize race. It's not a factor in attraction for me. "</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I'm generally not attracted to men of color, but one of my partners was black. For us color was not an issue.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Just because we are progressive in terms of sexuality in the Leather community doesn't mean that we escape the intersections of oppression and prejudice that occur in society at large. We are a subculture, which means we are a small group WITHIN a larger culture, and therefore carry over many of the values of that larger culture into our culture, intentionally or not. Racism exists in the larger world, and it definitely exists in the Leather world.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I have noticed fewer Black and Hispanic people, proportionately speaking, in the community. I do not know if it is a problem with the group I associate, if others of color gather in their own groups, or there are other social/cultural issues at play.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I'm white and carry all the privilege that goes along with that, but teach at a school with a student body that's 97% African American. So, yeah, I can attest that there is a lot to be said and learned about this issue. I don't think the Leather scene has fewer racial prejudices than most other environments, but I also don't think it's doing any worse. What I have noticed is a greater willingness to talk about race issues among everyone in the Leather scene -- but then, maybe it's just easier to talk about such topics with people we've been nekkid around. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">"1. Gender identity is a bit more complicated than Yes/No binary for me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">2. ""Physically attracted"" question... do you mean exclusively, like ""am I generally attracted to"" someone of a different racial background, or inclusively, like ""I am generally attracted to people of all racial backgrounds""? The phrasing is awkward; I said ""no"" b/c it sounds like you mean it exclusively, like maybe I'm a white guy that only dates black men. I date both. All. Whatever."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">You did not factor in this survey that some people in leather community and fetish community use race play/language as integrated element in their scenes or lives. This will skew your results to a race bias perhaps in a negative way.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">"On this question: ""Are you aware of racial prejudices, directed toward yourself or others, in your daily life?""</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I think you might find that the answer would vary regionally. In the South, I see probably see much more racial prejudice than someone might in other parts of the US."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I feel that being a black male, I am usually the only one of color at an event or someones party....be it leather oreinted or just an all gay event!! Especially, since I live in Wv and th scene is very queen oriented!! I am heavily attracted to white guys, but, they are the ones that seem to be into what I like or dress the way I like a guy to dress!! Boots nice fitting jeans, facal hair!! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Isn't it important where you live? I can imagine if you live in central norway where you see 1 non white on 100 whites, sexual attitude towards coloured people is different than in a state wher more than a quarter is not white</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Black men are so hot</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">"As with white guys, men of color are hit and miss also</span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">"</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Keep up the great work.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">i'm find very difficult to express my fetish in leather because of people in my country very closed abaout this.</span></div>
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Yes and No answers to some of these questions might better be answered by substitution of a multi-point scale, particularly the sections regarding friends in and out of the leather community.</div>
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***</div>
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The gay community in general is surprisingly racist, which is incredibly sad. I have heard some appallingly racist comments come from people who strive for equality when it comes to sexual orientation, but the hypocrisy of judging anyone on another meaningless criteria never seems to dawn on them. I do not believe that the leather community is any more racist than any other part of the gay community, but racism (and classism) is still there and fairly disappointing and ugly.</div>
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Racially speaking; the 'newer the generation, the more racially inclusive' the community has become, and 'accepting'. Larger population centers offer greater options and visibility of our diversity, although there 'appears' to be fewer races 'involved in the leather community', it can be due to 'cultural differences' and upbringing. As with 'piercings' for a while, only 'those crazy ass white people' got piercings (or tattoos). Now 'everyone is doing it. Evolution and "Progressive Leather" is the term I have coined for our ever changing 'Revolution in Leather'. From 'Old Guard' to 'New Guard' to 'Crossing Guard'; and Europe seems to 'lead the way' from Leather design, to rubber, to gear, to so many wonderful new 'discoveries'.</div>
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***</div>
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Race and ethnicity are different and to combine them renders your data meaningless. Many latinos for example do not self identify as people of color.</div>
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***</div>
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Some of the questions are not simple yes or no questions. </div>
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This is a great topic for a survey. I'd love to hear about your results once you finish with your project.</div>
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Even though the leather community bills itself as diverse, it is diverse in fetishes, not race to a great extent. Many men of color in the leather community are objectified. So organizations like ONYX are still necessary.</div>
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I think the racial climate has really expanded in recent years. In order for things to change everyone has to be willing to do something new. As a black leather man I stopped sitting back & waiting for other people to come to me and welcome me. I now walk up to people/groups that I'm interested in and make my own introductions & the response has been good!</div>
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"I think that the question ""Generally speaking, are you physically attracted to individuals of a different race than yourself? *"" is a difficult one for me being pansexual I am a more interior personality person. I don't care what color you are."</div>
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Actually feel there is a lot of racism toward each other with African-Americans in the leather scene.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-58239387567716570252012-12-01T15:26:00.000-08:002012-12-01T15:26:20.896-08:00FETISH: The Leather Identity Project's focus for 2013.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DvIOs3deQmiLVnT5kv24x_hr3qZMswkB6F344ruh7bU3YI8JPdl2COTJIHmwMoKwKSdLmb1YkZFJzELp8fDj7agfXV-2huVTKjqUzxjia07kVb224T-Rs4nIVHR5NWFOwP84V4ud7zNH/s1600/fetishcalendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6DvIOs3deQmiLVnT5kv24x_hr3qZMswkB6F344ruh7bU3YI8JPdl2COTJIHmwMoKwKSdLmb1YkZFJzELp8fDj7agfXV-2huVTKjqUzxjia07kVb224T-Rs4nIVHR5NWFOwP84V4ud7zNH/s1600/fetishcalendar.jpg" /></a></div>
The Leather Identity Project has always been my way to seriously explore topics and show common ground. I've focused on significant issues like labels and identity, HIV, sex role, family, and race. In 2013 I'll be taking the project into a different direction.<br />
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We all have limits. Blood, scat, permanent marks, women, and piss are among the most common from my <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/11/data-what-are-you-into.html">"what are you into?" survey</a>. While a fetishes can be an acquired tastes, they are usually already with us waiting to be discovered. Fetishes that are on the fringe of accepted practice, or at lest unpopular, invite jeering and negative jokes.<br />
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Like most people, I have limits. Scat grosses me out. I see BB as an unnecessarily risky behavior. PnP freaks the hell out of me. Never the less, we've all been in situations where a friend opens up about a fetish that turns us off. How did you respond? I've always done my best to be accepting of my friends "other interests." Heck, I'm into water sports and many think that's disgusting.<br />
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Next year I'll be exploring different fetishes. Popular sites to get information about safe exploration and etiquette. I'm also looking for experts on different fetishes to help out. You don't have to be the ultimate authority to help out. I want to know what turns you on about your fetish. What was your first experience? Have you ever done it in public? Do your friends know about it?<br />
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I'm including a form with this post asking people to contribute thoughts, information, and anyone willing to be interviewed about their fetish. Please take the time to look at the form.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGtOYXZtZG9GQ0ZTMmNhRjhzUjczU1E6MQ" target="_blank">- Fetishist Information Collection -</a> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-70283682425137705422012-11-19T08:02:00.000-08:002012-12-15T15:37:52.131-08:00Race in the Leather Community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTTEbqpN2seAmpdHfak20jVSx358WbPvzEEZmIIIDLBUJdlkziBkneIBLjY8RtmwIgbAQpUIZy1b26_dAUbVQAaeXwQKfilkJBpDJszwF-dRPXCxAy0mkiuhXvSN2_tv6HXPMetCMdZwY/s1600/race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTTEbqpN2seAmpdHfak20jVSx358WbPvzEEZmIIIDLBUJdlkziBkneIBLjY8RtmwIgbAQpUIZy1b26_dAUbVQAaeXwQKfilkJBpDJszwF-dRPXCxAy0mkiuhXvSN2_tv6HXPMetCMdZwY/s1600/race.jpg" /></a>I'm a thirty something year old white guy who was raised in an affluent suburb. My expieriences with race were limited before I became an adult. Maybe life before then limited exposure, or perhaps I was simply oblivious. I admit, in my younger years I was limited in my sexual attraction, but now I'm a far more equal opportunity play mate. People of color are sometimes disproportionately absent in the leather community.</div>
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How are you affected by race in the scene? Are you?<br />
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This survey is closed. Data is coming soon.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-87572220107515649462012-08-30T07:08:00.000-07:002012-08-30T07:08:29.296-07:00"American Boys Bill of Rights"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ65qnIm4UEa0k9KZmdHCLoyuuBVdyNMb3El3O4VXdTtujYAL4jvVLtbwIXgvEfPv-aeaqtFceOiuB6YAWaJirRGoMw-e8aZ2tTvdHQynzBXyC0zYY68Laqp8_rihO4NcXQTTTWnoVxBiJ/s1600/xlg_daisy_bill_rights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ65qnIm4UEa0k9KZmdHCLoyuuBVdyNMb3El3O4VXdTtujYAL4jvVLtbwIXgvEfPv-aeaqtFceOiuB6YAWaJirRGoMw-e8aZ2tTvdHQynzBXyC0zYY68Laqp8_rihO4NcXQTTTWnoVxBiJ/s640/xlg_daisy_bill_rights.jpg" width="436" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While patrolling the web I came across this poster. It was published in 1947 as a toy add, but much of it applies to my view of what a leather boy is and what a leather boy deserves from the world. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So it's a little gun rights heavy towards the end, but it has some elements that I think are missing from the emphasis of boy culture today. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It says the following:</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We… The Boys of America believe in these OUR RIGHTS: the right to LIBERTY, hard-won by our forefathers ~ the right to HAPPINESS that comes with the growth of a healthy body and mind ~ the right to TRAINING, thoughtfully planned by parents, school and church ~ the right to OPPORTUNITY, to live, learn, play and grow up in the time-honored traditions of a free people ~ and the right to learn to SHOOT SAFELY. We recognize and accept the responsibility imposed by these Rights. But ~ until we are old enough to vote we expect YOU ~ our fathers, mothers and other citizens who elect America’s city, county, state and federal officers ~ to be eternally vigilant that our RIGHTS be not abridged!</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There is of course already a "leatherboy's Bill or Rights" on the web. The problem with this item is that it is a revision of the "slave's bill of rights" and has been reworded and repurposed to apply to girls, puppies, and any number of other submissive identities. The old boys Bill of Rights says the following:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">1. Every boy has the right to have his body, intellect, and emotions protected by his Dom.</span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Every boy has the right to choose the man whom he serves and to discontinue that service and take his leave without being subjected to physical, mental, or emotional abuse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Every boy has the right to be cared for, disciplined appropriately, and allowed to feel pride in his submission.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Every boy has the right to protected sex if he so wishes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Every boy has the right to privacy if he so wishes. No boy can be blackmailed, publicly humiliated, or physically coerced into service without his expressed desire to be so.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Every boy has the right to defend himself from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7. Every boy has the right to consent or not to consent to sexual activities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8. Every boy has the right to seek refuge, counsel, and advice from other subs and Doms without the expectation of sex, money, or any other service in return.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9. Every boy has the right to a physically and emotionally available circle of friends.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is a lot of good stuff in this list of Rights. I agree with a lot of it, but it's missing several crucial elements. Personal growth and service are essential elements for boys. As we move through life our views change based on our experiences. Whether we like it or not, this is also true about our leather identities as well. I've said it before and I'll say it again. Too many boys are not taught how to take care of themselves or be responsible members of the society. As a former president of the <a href="http://dcboysofleather.org/" target="_blank">DC boys of Leather</a> I was always frustrated when other officers would drop a commitment to work a bar night or other event because their Sir had other plans. These events are often planned a year in advance and not a surprise to the boy. I believe that honoring commitments is a crucial part of service, and that any Sir should respect a boys commitments. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My successor addressed this problem with a letter to his officer's Sirs/Masters. The letter said the following:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As Your slave/boy is new to the eboard, i thought it appropriate to reach out to You personally as President elect. It is an honor and privilege to serve our club and thus our community and as the oldest, largest and most active boy's club in the world, there is great responsibility and expectation for the club, its members and thus its eboard. Allowing Your boy/slave to serve is a testament to Your commitment to O/our community and to the club and a demonstration of the strength and integrity of Your leather family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From personal experience, i know that serving the club and community in a leadership role can present some challenges in service to family. These challenges are not insurmountable (and generally involve conflicting schedules) but do pose significant intra-personal conflict to a disciplined and collared boy or slave.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In this regard, my SIR has been a tremendous help in guiding me in fulfilling all of my commitments to family, club, community and most importantly, self. i will certainly share what i have discovered with the members of the eboard as i mentor our newest leaders and my SIR has offered to be available to You should You have questions or need advice on how best to hold expectations for this commitment to a larger service to community. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i am sure Your boy/ slave will make You proud as i am confident he will shine in his new role within our community and club. i am proud to serve along side this dynamic eboard and feel this year will be an exciting ride. Look for great things from the boys this year and in the years to come as i look for great things in these emerging leaders. </span></div>
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Regrettably, the letter didn't work with all of the recipients. Wether the cause be the boy not making his/her Sir aware of the conflict, or the Sir requiring the boy's attendance at his/her event, a failure to honor commitments occurred. This failure is not only bad for the club, but bad for the boy as well.</div>
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The <a href="http://dcboysofleather.org/" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">DC boys of Leather</a> was founded to be a safe space for boys to be themselves. This "boy space" allows boys to be the mischievous and playful, serve the community, and discuss solutions for the unique issues boys face. A lot has changed in the 14 years since the club's inception. What was once feared to be the formation of "boy unions" where Doms were cut out of the equation has instead been hobbled by the external influence of Doms. While club discussions were once playful and silly, now they are often serious discussions about protocol and rules.</div>
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I take commitment seriously, this includes commitment to a D/s relationship. I don't believe a sub should disrespect his/her Dom's rules while honoring other commitments. My issue is that Dom's should respect, and encourage their sub's need to honor external commitments. These commitments are good for the sub.</div>
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Boys have always had a potential to do amazing things. The energy we put into our passions are inexhaustible and contagious. We can often also lack focus. This is where the discipline and training of a D/s relationship, boys clubs, and other community involvement can be most beneficial to a boy. I think the two "boys Bill of Rights" can be merged into a better, more well rounded document that goes something like this:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">We… The leather boys of the world believe in these OUR RIGHTS: the right to LIBERTY, to respect our minds and bodies and demand that others do the same ~ the right to HAPPINESS that comes with the growth of a healthy body and mind ~ the right to TRAINING, thoughtfully planned by our Doms, our community and fellow boys ~ the right to OPPORTUNITY, to live, learn, play and grow in the time-honored traditions of the boys who came before us. We recognize and accept the responsibility imposed by these Rights. We shall be eternally vigilant that our RIGHTS be not abridged! </span></blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-17561475168711369292012-08-17T08:05:00.000-07:002012-08-17T08:05:44.133-07:00Leather Titles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK-Dc-D-3TvT9psvnJDEf_8_vAwjbX8RVgsDQWZzsMYoxA55E90HCOWLawYA7OuVOtmFyT3scDakYfLBg6pn8UcttIEexAqR8F6tkIQ7NXbQqZf9xvamTmHaYgzG6UPphm2x-w6k_xxpN/s1600/sash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK-Dc-D-3TvT9psvnJDEf_8_vAwjbX8RVgsDQWZzsMYoxA55E90HCOWLawYA7OuVOtmFyT3scDakYfLBg6pn8UcttIEexAqR8F6tkIQ7NXbQqZf9xvamTmHaYgzG6UPphm2x-w6k_xxpN/s1600/sash.jpg" /></a></div>
I have mixed feelings about leather titles. I think those best served by leather titles are the title holders and contestants themselves. Running for a contest can be a huge confidence boost for the men and women who choose to compete. It takes guts to expose yourself on stage. <span style="text-align: left;">For most, running for a title is a positive experience. In fact, more than half of those who have participated in a contest have competed in more than one. 69% of participants who have competed in a contest report that they have won at least one contest. If at first you don't succeed...</span><br />
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My husband is a title holder for this current year and winning has been an amazing experience for him. He's met people from across the country and made some lasting friendships. He also shows a comfort working a crowd that he never had before. This boost alone has increased his confidence at work and at home. He has kept his goals modest, simply to promote his bar and increase awareness of the leather community.<br />
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Unfortunately titles can also have a darker side to them. Winning can bring out the worst qualities in some people. It can also give false authority to a winner, allowing him or her to pass on bad or destructive information to new members of the community. Living under a microscope is a stressful experience, and this can push some to do negative things.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Over two-thirds of the community have attended a leather title contest at least once. They take all shapes and sizes from a small bar contest to major events like MAL and IML. At the end of the day, the structure is basically the same. I'm beginning with the process by which a title holder is selected since 25% of survey participants were unfamiliar with how contests work. There are differences between some circuits, but most are structured something like this.<br />
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<b>Interviews</b><br />
Each contestant is interviewed by the panel of judges. This is the highest scoring portion of the contest and often the reason why a "crowd favorite" may not win once the contest moves to the stage. Interviews have a time limit, but beyond that they are free form. Judges can ask whatever they want.<br />
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<b>Bar Wear</b><br />
This is the first portion of a contest that is on stage. Contestants wear something they might wear out to the bar.<br />
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<b>Jock Strap</b><br />
For many, this is the most popular portion of the contest. It's an opportunity for the audience to check out their contestants' bodies. It's also a great time to observe the contestants' confidence. Title holders find themselves in many unusual situations, and showing off their body is just one of many things they might have to do.<br />
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<b>Formal Leather</b><br />
This the portion where the audience sees the contestants in head to toe leather. Does their leather fit properly? Do they remember to take off their cover? Do they take it off correctly? Are their accessories flagged correctly? This portion really separates the seasoned leather man or woman from someone who participated last minute and borrowed everything the day before. All of this being said, a mistake here or there isn't going to destroy someone's chances, but it's fun to critique from the audience.<br />
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<b>Speech or Question</b><br />
While in formal leather the contestants are either asked to give a short speech or answer a question posed to them by the judges. Sometimes they have the question in advance, other times they are surprised. These can be serious or silly.<br />
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So there you have it, the basics of a leather contest system. Scores from each category are tallied by the tally master. Larger contests sometime use Olympic scoring. Some contest circuits have additions like a fantasy portion where the contestant plays out a fantasy on stage. There are other differences as well, but the system above is the basic setup.<br />
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As you can see above, only 33% of survey participants feel that the system we use is the best way. 25% are unfamiliar, and a staggering 42% say "NO." So where are the possible opportunities for improvement?<br />
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I've been a judge for one contest, tally master for two contests, and judges boy for three. I've had the opportunity to be a part of the process from start to finish for five contests, and I've seen recurring issues with each one.<br />
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<li>Inconsistent Scrutiny: I've seen judges grill one contestant and "lead" the next to a better answer. I've seen contestants be asked very difficult questions on stage while the next is asked a silly one. This is a major problem because each contestant is getting a different "test" and they are not all at the same difficulty level. When I interview job applicants at work I use a list of pre-determined questions as a starting point. I follow up as necessary, but I feel it's the only way to level the playing field.</li>
<li>Physical Attraction: How someone looks is important, but how someone looks in a jock is a difficult thing to judge objectively. It's also an issue at the interview stage. I've seen judges go easier on an attractive contestant and be harsh to one that is less attractive.</li>
<li>The Scoring System: Judging is hard. You are rushed to make decisions that people will love or hate you for. You also don't have much time to decide. Being given a bank of 45 possible points in one category and 10 contestants can make it difficult to be consistent. </li>
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As I've indicated above, there are different title circuits. Each one is different, and each one emphasizes different elements of the community. I've broken it down into two basic types. It goes without saying that there are more than two types alone, but most fit into one of these two categories.<br />
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<b>Role Specific Contests</b><br />
These contests judge their contestants by a specific role (ie. Leather SIR, Leather boy, Leather Woman, puppy, bootblack, ect). What's interesting about these contests is that they take something subjective and try to cram it into a box. You can never please everyone, we all have different opinions about protocol and how these roles should behave. Each winner has to do their best to represent their role fairly.<br />
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<b>General Mr. /Ms. Contests</b><br />
Most commonly, these are the "Mr. YOUR-LEATHER-BAR-HERE" contests. Roles aren't directly considered in these contests, but a submissive competing for this title better show confidence and poise on stage. These title holders are spokesmen and women for their bars, their city, and their region. In less urban areas they are also a rep for the leather community at their "leather friendly" bar.<br />
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As you can see above, the majority of participants think all types of contests play similar roles. Of those that with an opinion, more favor role specific contests. Prior to this survey I agreed with the latter. I've always felt that someone that poorly represents their role has a year to spread their opinions to newer members of the community irreparably imprinting them with bad information. Fortunately, this does not seem to be the case.</div>
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Every contest has it's talking points which go something like this. "Something something OLD GUARD, something something NEW GUARD, COMUNITY, YOUNG PEOPLE, UNITY." A friend affectionately calls this "Leather Contest Bingo," meaning that you'll hear key words many times over the course of the process. Leather title holders usually fall into two camps for the goals of their title year. The first camp wants to promote their bar and the community to the best of their ability. The second has a more ambitious goals like "bringing new people into the community," "unifying the leather and the non-leather communities," "HIV awareness," "drug use prevention," and so on and so on. These are all respectable goals, but as we can see they aren't particularly successful. I must note that we only had four survey participants who were under 20, so that data is a little skewed. An average of 20% of participants attribute their community involvement to a specific title holder. Fewer than half of participants feel that a title holder has enhanced their knowledge of history and traditions of the community. Opinions about community talking points were also in a low minority. I don't believe title holders are failing, the majority are doing what they are meant to do. Helping to draw crowds to events, helping with fundraising, and promoting their bar/region. It's in the loftier goals that often fall short. </div>
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53% of those going to large contests like MAL and IML don't attend the contests. 27% used to but don't any more. While I think contests are over emphasized, they do play a role in our community. A significant portion of us are engaged by contests and feel a sense of connection when they meet a title holder. </div>
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Going forward, I'm going to start including unedited comments from the surveys at the end of each data breakout, I will remove anything that identifies the individual. I am also going to select one that resinates with me to highlight. For this survey I agreed most with the following comment.</div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">"I think the inordinate amount of money, time and resources we spend on contests takes away from much of the other possible events and projects we could be doing."</span></blockquote>
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Our community is like a dysfunctional family. We don't all agree, but we're all we have. Toughening up and standing together despite differences of opinion is much better than standing alone. I'm just not sure that contests make the best focal points of our gatherings. </div>
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A link to the unedited data is included after the comments.</div>
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<u><b>Comments</b></u></div>
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Titles should not be beauty pageants and I don't feel like mine was, I am Mr Compound Leather (a bar title here in Denver). I was given the title based on my ongoing 15 year involvement in the community and my desire to further our community. I think too often titles are seen as beauty pageants. Some of them are but selecting ambassadors for our community is an important part of our culture. These guys who chase titles and have multiple sashes , I question their motives.</blockquote>
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I think these events are irrelevant and an embarrassment.</blockquote>
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The events are a sideline to bring us together. The next way we come together is classes and workshops and demos. But the reason for all of these is PLAY, and that must always be at the forefront of anything else we do. Sanitizing via titles is wrong and not what I look for in title events or title holders.</blockquote>
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I think the questionnaire makes a mistake by lumping all titles and titleholders together. IML (and perhaps MAL) are so big they have the aspect of tribal rituality, the group affirmation of shared values and practices, e.g. masculinity, male beauty, sex-positivity, "out"-ness. Most other contests, for instance M/s contests, don't manage to partake of that same sense of communal experience.</blockquote>
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And to say "titleholder" without differentiating between Mr Gay Naturist and someone like Guy Baldwin, whose IML title is 23 years old and whose prominence comes from work having little to do with the title -- this is going to generate responses that have nothing to do with each other.</blockquote>
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It seems to me that title holders play less of a role in political activism in the Leather-SM community, at least compared to what it was like in the early 90s. I don't think that's necessarily a good thing, when issues like violence against LGBTs, anti-gay marriage initiatives, Internet censorship and survelliance and other political issues are at the forefront of national debate. Leatherfolk have been marginalized from the LGBT political conversation particularly and title holders could play a greater role in that area. </blockquote>
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I admire (some) of the people who run for titles. Personally, I'm not exactly sure of the motivation; it's not an urge that I've had. And, I'm in a leather family where several of My subs have been titleholders.</blockquote>
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I don't like your age categories - very nasty to include everyone over 59 in one group while you use groups of 10 for the other age ranges. </blockquote>
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Suggest you give honor and respect to all age categories - otherwise - you are perpetuating the bias on the young - the baby boomers are in their 60's and life expentancy is increasing:</blockquote>
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60 - 69</blockquote>
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70 - 79</blockquote>
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80 - 89</blockquote>
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90 - 99</blockquote>
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100+</blockquote>
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I do wish there were more contests to represent the other fringes of the community. Like contests just for puppies and trainers, contests for true mentors, a title for ageplayers in the community. </blockquote>
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Members of my community told me it was time for me to run for Southeast Drummerboy. I had a longtime very close relationship with the Atlanta Eagle so I decided I would run for Mr. Atlanta Eagle first to see if I had what it took to be a titleholder. When I won Mr. Eagle, people I deeply respected told me I was going to IML 2000. I resisted. I was a boy and not good looking enough. I gave in and it turned out to be one of the transformational experiences of my life! I can't easily describe all that it did for me. After that, I won SE Drummerboy. That, too, was an amazing experience. For better and occasionally worse, celebrity is a powerful force in modern America. A title is a way to leverage the power of celebrity to do all kinds of good things. However, a title holder needs to always remember that they simply wear the title they are NOT the title. The dark side of celebrity and the title system is the risk of getting drunk on ego. A humble title holder can be a great asset for his community.</blockquote>
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I think the inordinate amount of money, time and resources we spend on contests takes away from much of the other possible events and projects we could be doing.</blockquote>
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Titles are a great way to make a difference in any aspect of our community, wether it is goal specific or through mentoring new leather folk.</blockquote>
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Unfortunately, I have seen Leather Contests become Mr. Beautiful-Hot-Man-that-today-is-the-first-time-I-see-you-wearing-leather-ever-in-this-bar, rather than a community leader picking event. My personal experience is that it is all about the looks and not about your work background and how involved you currently are with the community. As a proof, I stopped going to the bars the night of the contest because the producers had to pick out people from the crowd in order to have enough guys pretending to be running for the title. Very sad to watch and discouraging.</blockquote>
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*** </div>
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There are too many titles...keep them specific: Leather, Puppy, Rubber, SIR/boy/Woman, Bootblack... the smaller "bar/club" ones should feed into regional contests...that feed into the international...small bar/club contests should not feed into international contests. There are just too many title holders out there that probably won't have won it b/c there are so many. So many devalues the honor of the title at larger events. The movie Incredibles said it best "Lets make everyone super, so no one is" should not be the basis for kink/fetish/leather titles.</blockquote>
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I think Leather Contests take the silliest aspects of Beauty Contests and make them even sillier.</blockquote>
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I actually think the whole title/contest thing is a bit silly. </blockquote>
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*** </div>
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I find that leather tittle holders give voice to a community that was ignored and ostracized for many years. Leather, Rubber and other fetishes are being recognized more and more because of contests and the large affect, both in numbers of people and in the money they bring to a city.</blockquote>
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I find that leather tittle holders give voice to a community that was ignored and ostracized for many years. Leather, Rubber and other fetishes are being recognized more and more because of contests and the large affect, both in numbers of people and in the money they bring to a city.</blockquote>
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Everyone knows leather titles are too superficial (like beauty pageants), are rife with favoritism, and are very often determined based on the geographic location of contestants.</blockquote>
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Isn't this survey a bit too US oriented? Maybe in Europe we don't need leather contests to be told about leather events, or Hiv etc</blockquote>
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I think title contests are just an excuse to hold an event. It would be harder to organize something as big as IML or even MIR without something to say "this is the party and if you're deciding between events you should come to this one."</blockquote>
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Leather titles are something I have never witness but do hope to sometime soon, in Ireland we yet have to have a title competition for fetish men but are slowly making progress in a constructive way so possibly maybe next year will have a title for Irelands finest fetishmen. </blockquote>
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I think having options for each club/bar title is good, but I don't think having multiple title holders per year is so good. It is more difficult to support >1 title holder in a year. contests can be a galvanizing event when produced well.</blockquote>
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good survey, thanks!</blockquote>
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Contests seem to have a different significance in the US (and to some degree Continental Europe) than in the UK, there's much fewer in the UK and they don't seem to be such a popular/recurrent thing as in the US</blockquote>
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*** </div>
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While contests are entertaining and a lot of events are centered around them, I find that people take titles and title holders too seriously. Yes, some title holders step up and become active leaders in the community, but I feel that most community leaders who hold/held a title were already leaders beforehand.</blockquote>
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Also, there are a good number of past and present title holders who do nothing for the community, walk around with an air of self importance and inflated egos, and are more about ""what can you do for me"" as opposed to "how can I give back".</blockquote>
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Like most things in our community, I find that people take titles way too seriously. They are fun, entertaining, and a big part of our community. But not the end all, be all of what makes us Leathermen (and Leatherwomen).</blockquote>
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***</div>
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just like beauty contests, these are antiquated and ridiculous,,, </blockquote>
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*** </div>
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I was very shy guy, running for a title broke me of that, when you have to walk out on stage in a jockstrap, you learn to be free. Hold your head High and never look back, I love my leather family.</blockquote>
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Its encouraging to see the use of current technology to enhance the leather culture. </blockquote>
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Instead of getting lost in the exclusivity, we need to be inclusive with like minded people and not get lost in arguments about "old guard" and traditions at the expense of where we are heading and the new generations thoughts.</blockquote>
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdEE5alJZd2VNS3YxNVhOSjJKNW02cXc" target="_blank">Unedited Raw Data</a> </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-40045995583291590522012-06-12T00:04:00.001-07:002012-06-15T07:37:13.120-07:00Leather Pride<div class="widget Poll" id="Poll1">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26rOmsEo-Evp2dawyN-RA6yw-IgBs3P-u2viJrWo1Wb2iL6Gde8DxDEvZEn-rqrryqzzUpNGm4ee26aiTeoA2YMU1ZrNqJRh-o8jHRUPUYVCCvAmZVX_m990OwrFFsC2kB3k26C_XYFlU/s1600/pride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26rOmsEo-Evp2dawyN-RA6yw-IgBs3P-u2viJrWo1Wb2iL6Gde8DxDEvZEn-rqrryqzzUpNGm4ee26aiTeoA2YMU1ZrNqJRh-o8jHRUPUYVCCvAmZVX_m990OwrFFsC2kB3k26C_XYFlU/s1600/pride.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Gay pride, take it or leave it, is a major part of urban life. Wether you like it or not, there is often a noticeable absence of leather visibility at pride. Perhaps the leather folks don't feel welcome to come out in leather, or perhaps its too damn hot. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Whatever the reason I'm curious what you all with pride. Do you wear your leather, or at least some leather out to pride? Do you attend at all? This isn't a formal survey, but it's fun to see what people do.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Are you attending pride in leather or gear?</span></span></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-53894699046912132542012-06-06T06:25:00.000-07:002012-06-06T06:34:49.859-07:00Happy Daddy's Day<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5iOoKlVKtSc-ciAgWkctkwPTO-t7IOeSMRKoHnjvwFU8J1JZEqKdDH2k58y_qbIhTKLHqX1cGm0RA88I4HEX7gNyLkrwnxxmBOlUK4-Xcpp94mRDqsMYC9gpU-LmhToF0iojP_rHJPXG/s1600/daddy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_5iOoKlVKtSc-ciAgWkctkwPTO-t7IOeSMRKoHnjvwFU8J1JZEqKdDH2k58y_qbIhTKLHqX1cGm0RA88I4HEX7gNyLkrwnxxmBOlUK4-Xcpp94mRDqsMYC9gpU-LmhToF0iojP_rHJPXG/s1600/daddy.jpg" /></a></div>
Over the past year I've been thinking a lot about the relationships between Sirs and boys. I can't help but feel like Daddies are left out of the conversation far too often.</div>
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Like many I started exploring kink online. My first Dom was on the site <a href="http://Alt.com/">Alt.com</a>. He was in Houston and I in DC, but our correspondences changed my life. At the time I wanted to be a slave, but he insisted that I was not. He saw my playfulness and my desire to serve as telltale signs that I was a boy at heart. He explained the differences between a Master/slave and a Daddy/boy relationship. He said that we could use whatever words we wanted; Sir/boy, Sir/pup, the wording was irrelevant. It was our power dynamic that mattered.<br />
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I consider <a href="http://www.recon.com/view_profile.aspx?id=142128" target="_blank">Daddy Jim Raymond</a> to be my first "real world" Daddy. Like a father, Daddy Jim has shaped me and other boys into more balanced individuals through his example and leadership, not adherence to protocol alone. We haven't always seen eye to eye, but he has always shown faith that I would do the right thing for myself and for my community. With him I fear disapproval more than punishment. Unlike some outsiders, Daddy Jim has always used his honorary membership in the DC boys to play devils advocate and to encourage us to make our own decisions after thoroughly considering all the consequences.<br />
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To me, the Daddy/boy relationship serves both parties. They structure their relationship through growth, compromise and agreement. Daddies embrace the differences between boys and understand that no two are alike. Daddies are nurturing and caring individuals who want us to bring our best to every situation. Finally, Daddies know that one day a boy needs to stand on his/her own and define himself/herself without requiring another to provide that definition. Far too often I am frustrated when I see boys exit long term D/s relationships no better equipped to make their own decisions, manage their finances, or understand the importance of honoring commitments. As with vanilla relationships, D/s relationships should be mutually beneficial.<br />
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I lean on mentors to help me be a better person. Daddies have helped me in that pursuit. Shaping the future leaders of the community is a more noble path than rigidly defined roles and self gratification alone.<br />
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Happy Daddy's day <a href="http://www.recon.com/view_profile.aspx?id=142128" target="_blank">Daddy Jim</a>, and Happy Daddy's day to all the men and women who strengthen our community through mentorship, compassion, and understanding.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-76042803319385762382012-05-31T08:39:00.000-07:002012-05-31T08:39:50.329-07:00Mr. ?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK-Dc-D-3TvT9psvnJDEf_8_vAwjbX8RVgsDQWZzsMYoxA55E90HCOWLawYA7OuVOtmFyT3scDakYfLBg6pn8UcttIEexAqR8F6tkIQ7NXbQqZf9xvamTmHaYgzG6UPphm2x-w6k_xxpN/s1600/sash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK-Dc-D-3TvT9psvnJDEf_8_vAwjbX8RVgsDQWZzsMYoxA55E90HCOWLawYA7OuVOtmFyT3scDakYfLBg6pn8UcttIEexAqR8F6tkIQ7NXbQqZf9xvamTmHaYgzG6UPphm2x-w6k_xxpN/s1600/sash.jpg" /></a></div>
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Leather titles are a significant part of the leather experience. Contests, being the core of many leather events, provide a setting to bring people together. While many see titles as the backbone of the leather experience others look down on them. Both leather title advocates and "sash queen" dissmissers are vocal members of the community. As with most things the loudest often have the most extreme opinions. </div>
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Those with mixed feelings often don't speak up on their viewpoint. <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?pli=1&formkey=dEE5alJZd2VNS3YxNVhOSjJKNW02cXc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank">Where do you stand on leather titles?</a></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-26935432369181208722012-05-16T11:52:00.000-07:002012-05-17T05:58:52.125-07:00Mixer: Gay, Straight, Bi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaIaXIFCnCN3cAA-Itn6_CPsTevDW8C4EhwpZOorR3kVwL-W3hbzno9MHjqxnpSdRnB9aKWvsNoENbv81rWoAne0nWL0hivllMgB-flqiGC3-KnFDWzzSXlv-sx9E64F4FGr6mP01CXDZ/s1600/gaystraightbi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaIaXIFCnCN3cAA-Itn6_CPsTevDW8C4EhwpZOorR3kVwL-W3hbzno9MHjqxnpSdRnB9aKWvsNoENbv81rWoAne0nWL0hivllMgB-flqiGC3-KnFDWzzSXlv-sx9E64F4FGr6mP01CXDZ/s1600/gaystraightbi.png" /></a></div>
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I'd like to start by saying this was a hard survey write and analyze. I'm not sure I did it justice, and I apologize for this. I believe that gender and orientation divide the leather community in negative way. We don't need to wander down the path of political correctness to diversify. If anything I prefer the leather community's willingness to kick social norms in the ass. Preferring same gender or orientation play spaces doesn't make you an asshole, but there is no reason we can't make a greater effort to be more tolerant in social settings.</div>
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It's no surprise that gay men are frequently unwilling to engage in sexual acts around people of different orientations and genders, but the reverse is true for social interaction. 75% of gay men have attended mixed orientation/gender social events and an additional 5% would be willing to. These numbers don't change remarkably when broken down by age and sex role. The 25% who are not willing to attend mixed social events can't be explained by friendship homogeny alone. </div>
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Switches and gay males in their 50's were the only groups who deviated significantly from other participants regarding mixed social event attendance. Gay male switches were 14% less likely than Doms and subs to attend mixed social events. Gay male participants in their 50's were 23% less likely to attend mixed social events. Gay males in their 50's have 16% fewer gay friends than other gay males and gay male switches have the same number of gay friends. The lack of correlation between friendship homogeny and willingness to attend mixed social events in these groups suggest another variable. </div>
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Sexual attraction alone can't be the deciding factor. Although the survey didn't adequately explore the topic, all bisexuals, women, and trans participants were willing to attend mixed orientation social events. These three groups were also more accepting open play spaces.</div>
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My conclusion is that there is something about the gay male portion of the leather community that differs from other groups. Clearly there is more to explore. Please feel free to send any questions I should have asked my way. A future survey could look at gay men more specifically.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdFFtUi16cmpxR3RXYXNINlZUTzlFMHc" target="_blank">Survey Data</a></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-1798261277938680002012-04-18T07:18:00.002-07:002012-04-18T07:57:59.110-07:00Boys' Club Census<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEtRxN2qDnVAB2XCjw7igw-9T-HdQjO3OkBcL3WS5oykx8WtdmR1lPtZNu55BpDcHYQUJkogKWS8hiwRJx7X22hiMQN35R6kUwLck-5KliLhx24sN72TQutAxT_2b3uP2xMmUXR5GkOrC/s1600/2012+Census.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEtRxN2qDnVAB2XCjw7igw-9T-HdQjO3OkBcL3WS5oykx8WtdmR1lPtZNu55BpDcHYQUJkogKWS8hiwRJx7X22hiMQN35R6kUwLck-5KliLhx24sN72TQutAxT_2b3uP2xMmUXR5GkOrC/s1600/2012+Census.png" /></a></div>
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While working on the history page for the dc boys of leather I've discovered it's very difficult to locate information about which boys clubs have existed, what year they formed, and which ones are still active. I've decided to address this problem by asking for your help. There are boy clubs all over the continent. Some are thriving while others have disbanded or changed their name. Please help me compile a history of when these clubs formed and which ones still exist. Feel free to participate as many times as you want, my goal is to find out information about as many clubs as possible. <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEYwNXlfVno4U3ZiVkxKRGFHbVVPeVE6MQ#gid=0" target="_blank">Participate in the census.</a></div>
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I'd also like some high resolution images of club colors. I can pilfer around on the web, but a lot of you probably have some good images saved on your computers. If you have one please provide your email address and let me know in the survey.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-52943776061842234022012-04-05T08:13:00.000-07:002012-04-06T06:38:11.048-07:00Does Your Mother Know?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkG6lXI__34ItrLHUUXX4RaU2Xjy6yEp2Bn4PEXEvZPMji_iCECM1Iqj-sT_-MW1bx0YqLDUMX_jMnzk-UJRUBdFaL7lpPDiEugTDLK1lIHRoC5ZdG0eTIA546JluRfZ8bf7LxwXzuQuPg/s1600/doesyourmotherknow.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkG6lXI__34ItrLHUUXX4RaU2Xjy6yEp2Bn4PEXEvZPMji_iCECM1Iqj-sT_-MW1bx0YqLDUMX_jMnzk-UJRUBdFaL7lpPDiEugTDLK1lIHRoC5ZdG0eTIA546JluRfZ8bf7LxwXzuQuPg/s1600/doesyourmotherknow.png" /></a></div>
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I often draw a destination between the sexual elements of the community and the social ones. The leather community is a one composed <u>of</u> sexually liberated individuals, not necessarily a community <u>for</u> sexually liberated individuals. Because of this I have little problem being open about my involvement in the community. I may not want to share my <u>sexual adventures</u> with the world, but I have no issue being proud of my <u>social involvement</u>. </div>
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Many of those entering the community, or indeed those involved in it, do not draw this distinction. I find that considering community and sexuality mutually exclusive to be alienating to those on the outside. <br />
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The "Does Your Mother Know?" survey explores how individuals distinguish these issues. Most do on some level, others do not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJb_shM5IX73_TSBKwx4GWz5_nGgWJrBuykCTRFEubW8AcD6LvwvW0cUdlo0y7MLcu3Xi_CjTU4RG2vlsvETFIsrY4BCUhqQndOjeYCKucr0ojAQYkJ-ZaAc3jOTeXkBmTlA4kPmvEBNQ/s1600/does+your+mamma+know.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmJb_shM5IX73_TSBKwx4GWz5_nGgWJrBuykCTRFEubW8AcD6LvwvW0cUdlo0y7MLcu3Xi_CjTU4RG2vlsvETFIsrY4BCUhqQndOjeYCKucr0ojAQYkJ-ZaAc3jOTeXkBmTlA4kPmvEBNQ/s1600/does+your+mamma+know.jpg" /></a></div>
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To give some perspective here, 211 people participated in this survey. People are surprisingly open about kink and community involvement with their vanilla friends. Family and co-workers are equally informed in social involvement, and not surprisingly kept in the dark about sex.<br />
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27% (27 participants) work in kink friendly carriers, just over half of those who are open about kink with co-workers. Between 7% and 9% only have kinky friends and friends in the community. All three of these groups are a small, but vocal, minority.<br />
<br />
Most of us have to balance both worlds, deal with conflicting values from our family and friends, and choose our battles. My husband tend to be more open than is probably good, but it does weed out those that find our personal life objectionable. Sure it can be painful when friends and family result to irrational judgement, but values are subjective. As marriage and other "social norms" permeate our community this conflict will only become more relevant as we maintain our preferred <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/12/data-relationship-models.html">relationship models</a>.<br />
<br />
Once or twice a year I have the privilege of doing a S&M demo at my alma mater. Pouring hot wax onto 18 to 22 year old co-eds is fun, but it also presents an opportunity. My co-presenters and myself are always asked "do you have 'real' jobs, or do you do this full time?" The awe of their reaction when we reveal our mundane careers is always amusing. Their belief that we exist permanently on the fringes of society is understandable. It also fuels so many fears about coming leather bars and other social centers. Coming out and living openly can help so many closeted individuals know they can be open and happy about their orientation. Similarly, being open about our community involvement helps those who are afraid to know it's a safe space. We can invite others to join us by making it clear that we are far more dynamic than erotic fiction would indicate.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdDZITDRDZXdKanN1NnhnZ01DU2JMX2c" target="_blank">review unedited raw data</a></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-25939322635440750132012-03-09T06:08:00.001-08:002012-04-06T06:17:59.357-07:00Mixer: gay, straight, & bi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaIaXIFCnCN3cAA-Itn6_CPsTevDW8C4EhwpZOorR3kVwL-W3hbzno9MHjqxnpSdRnB9aKWvsNoENbv81rWoAne0nWL0hivllMgB-flqiGC3-KnFDWzzSXlv-sx9E64F4FGr6mP01CXDZ/s1600/gaystraightbi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaIaXIFCnCN3cAA-Itn6_CPsTevDW8C4EhwpZOorR3kVwL-W3hbzno9MHjqxnpSdRnB9aKWvsNoENbv81rWoAne0nWL0hivllMgB-flqiGC3-KnFDWzzSXlv-sx9E64F4FGr6mP01CXDZ/s1600/gaystraightbi.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The leather community is a diverse and dynamic place. We're divided along lines of orientation, gender, and protocol level. Sometimes we all come together and celebrate, but more commonly we gather with those like ourselves. I've always seen the Leather Community as both sexual and social. Individual limitations of the former drastically influence the latter. How do you feel about the social and sexual mixing of individuals of different backgrounds? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFFtUi16cmpxR3RXYXNINlZUTzlFMHc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank">-click here to participate in the survey-</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-17838865954415010402012-02-17T11:14:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:34:42.049-07:00Leatherwear Basics<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzy6vwlVXr7yP_xMGnoTVNmBwVlWKrKS3Xd1YoU97ZAnCLOsIne-l8Fs_gwwnUq68T3H837Dr_CyNgBIwQBTSNUrIjLurRntUHyjryvOGwFLMV2rI3cVzKPG8aV16Od-G8e18uUUMVDA2s/s1600/shirt%2526jeansicon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzy6vwlVXr7yP_xMGnoTVNmBwVlWKrKS3Xd1YoU97ZAnCLOsIne-l8Fs_gwwnUq68T3H837Dr_CyNgBIwQBTSNUrIjLurRntUHyjryvOGwFLMV2rI3cVzKPG8aV16Od-G8e18uUUMVDA2s/s1600/shirt%2526jeansicon.jpg" /></a>One thing that the <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2012/02/data-barrier-to-entry-leather-bar.html">"Barrier to Entry"</a> survey made painfully obvious was a lack of easy to find guides for those intimidated by entering leather community. My first handout gives some basic leather-wear advice for those who think they don't have anything to wear. In truth nearly everyone has the right clothing to wear into a leather bar. <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B52p4_bauj2GNGE1NjY2ZjItMzgwZS00OTlkLWEwMmUtYmY3ZWE2ZTc0MzI4" target="_blank">Download PDF</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-18952808480252935242012-02-17T09:58:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:16:40.433-07:00Barrier to Entry (leather bar attendance)<title></title>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AYq5xNYbyLA/TwWpWPGTDBI/AAAAAAAAATU/DYkoDI85UC4/s1600/barriertoentry.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AYq5xNYbyLA/TwWpWPGTDBI/AAAAAAAAATU/DYkoDI85UC4/s1600/barriertoentry.png" style="border: 0px solid; border: 0px solid; height: 200px; width: 200px;" /></a>There are factors that keep
people coming and keep people away from Leather Bars. This break
out will explore the reasons for both. At the end of the day, some
patience is necessary from the regulars and some adventurousness
is necessary from the newbies.<br />
<br />
Geography and parking is the biggest barrier keeping people away from bars. The simple fact is their can't be a bar in every town, and traveling to the city isn't an option for everyone. I'm working on a guide for those who are looking for a sense of community without having geographic access to a Leather or Leather friendly bar. There are ways to develop a sense of community without traveling, sometimes it simply means opening up your mind.<br />
<br />
I've organized some of the most common factors keeping people coming and keeping people away in the lists below. I've paired reasons by disconnect.<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="2" style="text-align: left; width: 600px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 50%;"><div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;">Keeps
People Coming</span></div>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top; width: 50%;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="text-decoration: underline;">Keeps
People Away</span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><div style="text-align: right;">
not too loud</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
edgy</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
bartenders are friendly</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
tag along with kinky partner</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
friendly</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
relaxed atmosphere</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
community</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
sense of belonging<br />
HIV accepting</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
clubs</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
see same faces</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
meet likeminded people</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
mentoring</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
atmosphere</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
comfortable wearing gear</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
exhibitionism</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
know what others are into by look</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
scuttlebutt (gossup)</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
cruising</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
smoking areas</div>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><div style="text-align: left;">
too loud</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
nervous</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
rude staff</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
partner is vanilla</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
arrogant</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
uninviting<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
sub groups</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
clicks</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
inexperienced</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
dark</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
grose bathrooms</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
no one dresses up</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
drama</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
being judged</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
smoking areas</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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The takeaway from this list is that there are no simple solutions. I've broken my advice into three categories; advice for bars, advice for bar regulars, and advice for newbies. I'm not an expert here, but this advice is based on what people want. Everyone needs to put a little work in to make things better.</div>
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<b>Bars:</b></div>
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</div>
<ol>
<li><b>Cleanliness: </b>I know for a fact that my local bar cleans regularly, but basic facilities are a problem.
People want clean bathrooms with closing stall doors. keeping the bath
facilities well lit and sterile looking may take away from the ambiance,
but it also sends a message that bathrooms arn't sex dens. Some patrons
want a place to hook up, but many new ones are intimidated by not
having a comfortable place to piss.</li>
<li><b>Smoking Areas: </b>Not everyone is into cigar smoke. Enough people are that it should be available, but make sure the smoking area is separate from the rest of the bar so non-smoking patrons won't get turned off.</li>
<li><b>Websites:</b> I went to a lot of web sites, and none were good sources of information about leather bars or leather bar culture. Guides about etiquette, basic dress do's and don'ts, and well kept calendars are key. People are regularly upset about parking, so if you are mass transit accessible let people know that on the site.</li>
<li><b>Changing Areas: </b>Many bars have lockers available to remove layers once you get there. If you're bar has such facilities advertise that fact.</li>
<li><b>Welcome Feedback: </b>Tradition is an important part of leather bar culture, but that doesn't mean things shouldn't change when they aren't working. You shouldn't ignore valuable feedback simply because "You can't please everyone."</li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<b>Regulars:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><b>Be Less Judgmental: </b>You were new once too. The young man or woman dressed inappropriately or behaving disrespectfully may not know any better. If you want bars to thrive into the future then you have to help bring new people into the fold. It's also important to let them put their generation's spin on the community.</li>
<li><b>Wear Gear:</b> Instead of bitching about no one wearing gear, gear up yourself. There is no reason for anyone else to dress up if you aren't willing to first.</li>
<li><b>Be Friendly: </b>You don't have to want to have sex with someone to be polite to them. You also don't need to take every person under your wing to be friendly. New people regularly see members of the community as rude to outsiders. We know how supportive the community can be, don't turn someone off before they can discover that for themselves. Remember that the "twinks" who came out in a group may be uncomfortable coming alone. They may just need a mentor or a friendly face to keep them coming out.</li>
<li><b>Come Out More: </b>If you're sick of bars being empty then come out more.</li>
<li><b>Check the Drama at the Door: </b>Club, bar, and title politics are a constant source of gossip and drama at the bar. To an outsider it can sound like leather men are a bunch of backstabbing jerks.</li>
<li><b>Speak Up: </b>Leather bar managers and owners have to walk a type rope to keep as many people happy as possible. Support their efforts to try new things, but also don't be afraid to <u>respectfully</u> express your point of view.</li>
</ol>
<div>
<b>Newbies:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li><b>Evaluate Your Priorities: </b>Do you want a D/s relationship, or do you want a community? There is absolutely no reason you can't have both, but sometimes searching for a Sir or a slave can prevent you from seeing possible friendships that could support you in your journey. Making friends in the community also helps you network in a way that online personal sites never could.</li>
<li><b>Be Outgoing: </b>Regulars see leather bars as a welcoming place that creates a sense of family and community. This atmosphere doesn't need to be hard to break into. If you feel unwelcome, try to remember that you are the new one. People should be more friendly, but so should you. It's your job to try and introduce yourself. Although they may seem clicky from the outside try to look for club nights at bars, clubs often want new members. Even thought you may not want to join, it's a good way to meet people and no one will mind if you remain a GDI (God Damn Independent). </li>
<li><b>Its about Sex & Community: </b>Although people do hook up at leather bars, it's not the only reason people go. You don't have to want to have sex to go. Many are there to talk and have fun too. Often those looking for sex are in different areas of the bar than those who are there to socialize. If you want to meet people go to where people are talking, not making out. Also consider that you don't only have to talk to people you are attracted to. That "old man" on a bar stool could be an invaluable source of information and friendship.</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We often hear about reaching out to "young people" when talking about keeping the community alive. We can see below that those born between 1981 and 1990 are as likely to attend leather bars monthly as those born a decade earlier. In all likelihood their attendance is growing. Those born between 1961 and 1970 are the most likely to attend regularly, but those older drop off quickly.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PGCpHIW_cVjMzYC1QSCi-IPo4_2FBEgB6YDx3l6YcKvTTRIDFK_vY5aSU62x42RDGO_lYBCq_4iSDyuT0YKuT3S2voNdcz5q2JPjKCsAbX35JVXMIvs2a5r6IY885z76KY8qfnSDCfvG/s1600/FrequencyAge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9PGCpHIW_cVjMzYC1QSCi-IPo4_2FBEgB6YDx3l6YcKvTTRIDFK_vY5aSU62x42RDGO_lYBCq_4iSDyuT0YKuT3S2voNdcz5q2JPjKCsAbX35JVXMIvs2a5r6IY885z76KY8qfnSDCfvG/s1600/FrequencyAge.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
One regular anomaly is the dip in those born between 1971 and
1980. This absence is present in nearly every survey. Because
these individuals would have been in their 20's during the 1990's
one could assume their absence is a continuing legacy of the AIDS
epidemic. The positive outcome of those terrible years is that the
Leather community is largely accepting of those who are HIV
positive. This acceptance is strength of leather bars and the
leather community at large. Although some choose not to play
safer, the leather bars are a place where being positive doesn't
need to be a secret shame.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_dJeHnNNfQy1nPh3N3_M0Z_tJ2uez_vZbJbZkoJ_TN8ngfqbJ2LC_VT9PsYFlz93MbrvjbRwFCsb-dcS2fnkueUHVMa0z0u1WfhyJqYu-7IpLwQEIDz1H7OXGZL1e0Y8t1CKYu9om96k/s1600/FrequencyRole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_dJeHnNNfQy1nPh3N3_M0Z_tJ2uez_vZbJbZkoJ_TN8ngfqbJ2LC_VT9PsYFlz93MbrvjbRwFCsb-dcS2fnkueUHVMa0z0u1WfhyJqYu-7IpLwQEIDz1H7OXGZL1e0Y8t1CKYu9om96k/s1600/FrequencyRole.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Monthly attendees of leather bars tend to be mixed by role, but
the "regulars" tend to be subs and Doms. Being able to express
protocol in an accepting environment was a common reason that
keeps people coming out. Switches consistently have the highest
participation in LIP surveys, but we can see here that they may
frequent leather bars, but don't necessarily make them their home.<br />
<br />
My final take away is that leather bars are still attracting people. Attendance may be down, but as homosexuality becomes more mainstream we can expect a smaller counter culture community. That means that those of us that remain need to be more tolerant of each other. Specializing your identity is empowering, but also chops up community resources. Be yourself, but work together and respect differences.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdGxfa1NZamp1UWJBcXU4eC1aMnhRSlE" style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">- view the unedited raw data for this survey -</a></b></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-37319801205248214832012-01-25T12:18:00.002-08:002012-04-06T06:20:39.771-07:00Does your mother know?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkG6lXI__34ItrLHUUXX4RaU2Xjy6yEp2Bn4PEXEvZPMji_iCECM1Iqj-sT_-MW1bx0YqLDUMX_jMnzk-UJRUBdFaL7lpPDiEugTDLK1lIHRoC5ZdG0eTIA546JluRfZ8bf7LxwXzuQuPg/s1600/doesyourmotherknow.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkG6lXI__34ItrLHUUXX4RaU2Xjy6yEp2Bn4PEXEvZPMji_iCECM1Iqj-sT_-MW1bx0YqLDUMX_jMnzk-UJRUBdFaL7lpPDiEugTDLK1lIHRoC5ZdG0eTIA546JluRfZ8bf7LxwXzuQuPg/s1600/doesyourmotherknow.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During Mr. MAL 2011's very motivational and energetic step-down speech he brought his parents to the stage. This made me cry like a baby. Maybe it was the fact that my husband was in the contest and I was already emotional, but it is always moving when someone shares the community with their biological family.</div>
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The leather community is a fundamental part of my social life, and sometimes it's uncomfortable living in both worlds. I make a lot of choices of what I share with family, vanilla friends, and co-workers. At the end of the day I consider my involvement in the leather community to be such a positive experience that everyone knows, even if I leave out some of the details about sex. This survey explores what you share about your involvement in the leather community.</div>
</div>
</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 25px;"><b><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2012/04/does-your-mother-know.html" target="">This survey is now closed. Click this link to review data.</a></b></span></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-41860761165632346912012-01-25T12:18:00.001-08:002012-04-06T06:16:27.180-07:00Happy ______!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PUgSVDgnhc_sbaYcG3AYJC_OVl94Lbom8ecD5Zw1D5FBd3QzuauYHKNcDqerUXfPiqM7J2Ftf8XDoKxHPhAKGvH82i9tclVCbRxZ2_svIgvWze7Vf2Myin41CB4tPxC8V6q6517VF02i/s1600/Happy+_________%2521.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5PUgSVDgnhc_sbaYcG3AYJC_OVl94Lbom8ecD5Zw1D5FBd3QzuauYHKNcDqerUXfPiqM7J2Ftf8XDoKxHPhAKGvH82i9tclVCbRxZ2_svIgvWze7Vf2Myin41CB4tPxC8V6q6517VF02i/s1600/Happy+_________%2521.png" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Before joining the leather community my winter holidays were uniformly Christmas oriented. Now I have friends of many faiths and exposure to more and more people from different backgrounds have introduced me to new traditions. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">The leather community is one of choice, and consequently it's a melting pot that society at large could never be. I wanted this survey to be an exploration of what is considered to be one of the happiest, if not most stressful, times of year. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Christmas and New Years are the most celebrated holidays, but Winter Solstice has a significant percentage of participants. I was surprised how few participants reported celebrating Hanukah. It will be interesting to explore the religious elements of this survey in a future survey.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGro5VHASG90I_JEWbRoRzeBdHALjEIj_SXiVkUZ0u3ZXYAFFcREWL8hlXTNkBm61NubZfQs5VQsmSodwRYuz68l_EtG27kfAqe-tBugfURQ2WHl3vsKJIWo0l2FRaBd-xcvNzRMt1GgWq/s1600/celebrated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGro5VHASG90I_JEWbRoRzeBdHALjEIj_SXiVkUZ0u3ZXYAFFcREWL8hlXTNkBm61NubZfQs5VQsmSodwRYuz68l_EtG27kfAqe-tBugfURQ2WHl3vsKJIWo0l2FRaBd-xcvNzRMt1GgWq/s1600/celebrated.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">This survey reviled that those not close their families are twice as likely to spend the holidays alone, and also a third less likely to spend it with a significant other. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">My survey didn't ask how many wanted to spend the holidays alone, but it does show that only half of those who spend the holiday season alone also do not celebrate any holidays at all. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWl5dtMrnGUq_FvqNnKFs2NFhJmWR7iDzZSDd5_eYVzdPXMem1TDJNzvjedPz1NbkyVYmox06aOpeoKJXfaatMMn1Wb01aA2kw7Q7vwhMNXpu_bX7nJbdbiwXQK9sFfs0NCm56MyZiZnAN/s1600/spendwith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWl5dtMrnGUq_FvqNnKFs2NFhJmWR7iDzZSDd5_eYVzdPXMem1TDJNzvjedPz1NbkyVYmox06aOpeoKJXfaatMMn1Wb01aA2kw7Q7vwhMNXpu_bX7nJbdbiwXQK9sFfs0NCm56MyZiZnAN/s1600/spendwith.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Chosen families are an important component of the leather community. One community leader often refers to his home as "the island of misfit toys," which is particularly relevant considering it references a Christmas holiday classic. Loosing ties with one's biological family is an unfortunate reality for some. Creating new families is a powerful option. Nearly half of participants entertain during the holidays. If you are fortunate enough to be near a leather bar, some are open 365 days a year, including holidays.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdElla3F4Zmp5d2stUjJHRmNzV1FnblE&hl=en_US#gid=0" target="_blank">- view the unedited raw data for this survey -</a></b></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-4189598801827386782012-01-25T12:18:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:21:18.570-07:00Clarification on "Sex Role Preferences"<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'd like to take a moment to clarify one of the questions I use in every survey. It is my view that human sexuality is far more complicated than defining between dominant and submissive. In fact I have a three dimensional view of sexuality shown in the chart below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJFd_Jey_b9XAsJawnVbe8hOyGMzj40Ekz0JXT6Nfj5OG_Y0QxwGnaSu8R2P1YOswEexZnjxnusQaDmKxd_6PQ8aOdRa9vIitC2N1uJz5tQTb6-kxi6uy39HOnP8bLdSZrGP8zuWwFdIN/s1600/3dsex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJFd_Jey_b9XAsJawnVbe8hOyGMzj40Ekz0JXT6Nfj5OG_Y0QxwGnaSu8R2P1YOswEexZnjxnusQaDmKxd_6PQ8aOdRa9vIitC2N1uJz5tQTb6-kxi6uy39HOnP8bLdSZrGP8zuWwFdIN/s400/3dsex.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
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The reason I ask everyone to define themselves as dom, sub, or switch is because I believe sex role preference influences opinions in the community. For me, sex role is limited to dominant, submissive, and switch because I consider "level of sexuality" and "level of kinkiness" as separate dimensions of sexuality. People can be anything from asexual doms to vanilla subs. I've also deliberately simplified the vocabulary to preclude words which have different meanings in different circles. Subs and doms do not always see eye to eye and switches often see issues differently. I ask you to define yourself not because I am trying to box you in, but because it's a spectrum that everyone falls on. If you feel that neither "dom" or "sub" defines you, I challenge you to ask "do I desire to take or give control to an other?" If you do both depending on sexual chemistry, then perhaps you should consider identifying as a <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/data-switch-up.html" target="">switch</a>. </div>
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I also draw a destination between <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/survey-labels-and-identity-2-closes.html">labels</a> and sex role preferences. Some labels are clearly defined as dominant or submissive, others are not. I am a <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html" target="">boy</a>, but I see myself as a switch much of the time. I've learned a lot in my years and situations arise where I feel more comfortable taking control. <a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B52p4_bauj2GZWNhODIxYzYtNDYwOS00NWIyLTgzNWMtNWJlZDQxNzNlMTQ5&hl=en_US" target="_blank">These roles are fluid</a>, so if you feel dominant today, it doesn't mean you have to identify as "dominant" tomorrow.</div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-32644476940012061432012-01-05T09:01:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:23:15.977-07:00Survey: 'Barrier to Entry,' attendance at leather bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AYq5xNYbyLA/TwWpWPGTDBI/AAAAAAAAATU/DYkoDI85UC4/s1600/barriertoentry.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AYq5xNYbyLA/TwWpWPGTDBI/AAAAAAAAATU/DYkoDI85UC4/s1600/barriertoentry.png" /></a></div>
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For some, leather bars are the center of our social universe. They represent a second home, a meeting place for all of our friends and 'family.' For others they are unwelcoming holes that don't tolerate those who break from the pack.</div>
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Whatever your view point, leather and leather friendly bars are an important part of our subculture. While some notable bars have closed in the past few years, it is good to see other bars taking the opportunity to open their doors to the leather community. I hope this indicates that leather bars, in general, are here to stay.</div>
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The aim of this survey is to explore what keeps people coming back to leather bars and also what prevents those who attend leather events like <a href="http://www.leatherweekend.com/" target="_blank">MAL</a> from frequenting bars. I've opted for free form answers in parts of this survey, which adds a lot of work for me when I tabulate. I hope those taking the survey will take the opportunity to speak up on what they love and hate about leather bars.</div>
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<b><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2012/02/data-barrier-to-entry-leather-bar.html">This survey is closed, you may review data by clicking this link.</a></b></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-11298059103570067832011-12-28T07:47:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:16:50.509-07:00Relationship Models<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXjymOBV4emcrNCyVX2Lcgpp7xJz0-A4TqCqDimldheYiDSTnnR8UL59YDRVjD4_Rs-rA6FpgMhewv_aZZOXw5XiZDr7Nndle7b1cZBezdNmxjlKSI6MsLvg4dkpI3FXk8YGqBRWD3F3J/s1600/relationshipmodels.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXjymOBV4emcrNCyVX2Lcgpp7xJz0-A4TqCqDimldheYiDSTnnR8UL59YDRVjD4_Rs-rA6FpgMhewv_aZZOXw5XiZDr7Nndle7b1cZBezdNmxjlKSI6MsLvg4dkpI3FXk8YGqBRWD3F3J/s1600/relationshipmodels.png" /></a></div>
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Relationships in the Leather Community are often interesting to those looking from outside. We often attempt to model our relationship in a particular way. There is no perfect formula, and no two relationships are alike, but people do tend to choose from a few standard options.</div>
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Cheating, jealousy, and equality are all issues in most relationships. In the Leather Community we've attempted to address these "problems' by establishing parameters to define appropriate conduct.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fCCcuRknWVg/Tvsx6Dn18hI/AAAAAAAAAS8/6EIR3NcRFIE/s1600/prevelenceofrelationships.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fCCcuRknWVg/Tvsx6Dn18hI/AAAAAAAAAS8/6EIR3NcRFIE/s1600/prevelenceofrelationships.jpg" /></a></div>
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I asked if jealously was a problem instead of asking if there was jealousy because I wanted to explore how relationships addressed it. My husband an I are in an open relationship with rules and one of the ways we address jealousy is by allowing a "veto rule." Although both of us have been angry when the other invoked the rule, we've always talked about it after emotions have subsided and are often able to defuse the original cause of the jealousy. With D/s relationships I'm curious how each party defuses jealousy without creating tension.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a8vFBU0ndNs/Tvs1pGMr7mI/AAAAAAAAATI/_0tJRCNPYV8/s1600/jealousy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a8vFBU0ndNs/Tvs1pGMr7mI/AAAAAAAAATI/_0tJRCNPYV8/s1600/jealousy.jpg" /></a></div>
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As the same sex marriage became a political issue it was opposed as a focus by some in the Leather Community. It was often described as the "wrong issue." I herd this far more often by those in D/s relationships than by those in other relationship models. We can see this sentiment clearly below.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-slYyx4zmfxY/Tvst7HDUV7I/AAAAAAAAASU/Prc67aGjS6g/s1600/marriage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-slYyx4zmfxY/Tvst7HDUV7I/AAAAAAAAASU/Prc67aGjS6g/s1600/marriage.jpg" /></a></div>
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While I am not surprised by this question's answers, I can't help but wonder how those outside of the community would have answered it. Equality in relationships is a major issue, in the Leather Community it is addressed by rules in a way that non-protocol based relationships do not.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4Yy5UcoM8Q/Tvst62PkN8I/AAAAAAAAASE/K4zqHFqUci0/s1600/equality.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K4Yy5UcoM8Q/Tvst62PkN8I/AAAAAAAAASE/K4zqHFqUci0/s1600/equality.jpg" /></a></div>
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Roles are individual to most relationships. We all establish standard behavioral practices when at home and in public. I believe those in the Leather Community tend to talk about it more. Roles are often organic and change over time. How is this reality accommodated when protocol defines roles?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-khXhqS1N3ew/TvsuZ1nOteI/AAAAAAAAASw/whwGP6j9VvM/s1600/protocol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-khXhqS1N3ew/TvsuZ1nOteI/AAAAAAAAASw/whwGP6j9VvM/s1600/protocol.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdG9BSTNhWUdiUmVDOXliQWZ4RmdrYlE" target="_blank"><b>- view the unedited raw data for this survey -</b></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-91868242859875655282011-11-30T06:51:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:24:24.510-07:00Happy _________!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy holidays from the Leather Identity Project! This time of year family and friends tend to mean the most to us. It's a time to come together in celebration and hope.</div>
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This month I'd like to explore who you are spending the holiday season with. Whether that be with your biological family or the family you've made, this is a time to pull together. </div>
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<a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2012/01/data-happy.html">This survey is closed, you may review data by clicking here.</a></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-61915761414846864882011-11-17T07:32:00.000-08:002012-04-06T06:17:05.554-07:00What are you into?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times;">I started this survey as a fun way to explore the prevalence of kinks in the community and explore a number of talking points. Fetishes like "leather," "bondage," and "S&M" were nearly universal, but for many less common and less specific fetishes are what get them to come out in the first place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">We are often talking about "inviting new people into the community" and how "the leather community embraces individuality," but we have a lot of rules too. Sometimes our "limits" turn off the newbies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Over 40% of those polled are into sports gear. It's one of the most popular kinks out there. Fewer than 3% consider it a limit. Given this disconnect why do I frequently hear about how "it's not appropriate." Similar stats are true for rubber and other gear fetishes. I'm not the first to suggest that Leather is gear, and although I agree that it’s HOT, it also has a high cost component. For many people sports gear, lycra, and neoprene are HOT for a lower cost. By limiting appropriate attire we are preventing those new to the scene from coming in at all. Sure, there are events like <a href="http://www.leatherweekend.com/index.html" target="_blank">"Leather Cocktails"</a> and other formal events where you wouldn't want someone in a wrestling singlet or football pads, but the success of events like <a href="http://www.codedc.com/Home.html" target="_blank">CODE</a> in DC show the power of inviting everyone out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">"Inviting young people into the community" is often a talking point in conversations. I was fortunate to have two sources of guidance when entering the community, my friend <a href="http://ruffsstuffblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ruff</a> and the members of the <a href="http://dcboysofleather.org/" target="_blank">DC boys of Leather</a>. Both taught me that this community is about being yourself, playing safe, and having fun. By expecting a high standard for entry we are providing a disservice to those finding partners online and taking unnecessary risks. If you don't believe they are taking unnecessary risks I invite you to look at the <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/09/data-safe-sex.html" target="_blank">"Safe Sex"</a> data for HIV status in those 20-30.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">Kinks are fun! For many this community is one of few places where you can explore them without judgment. I had the benefit of teachers who helped me explore my kinks safely, and I do my best to do the same for others.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBgww3xJMJP_bU0y7fj3n_ReOLZtJNqK-jMplWWkI_rpsXPaJdAUhQDDzBnDHPeqbwhkGs5TRx5n1l4GdMCHhKTdGOBzqQ3rwJq7y0wjHYWmqGu4Rq8AnHPGiB2b7bl34YvVE_bxsfmgR/s1600/Whatareyouinto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivBgww3xJMJP_bU0y7fj3n_ReOLZtJNqK-jMplWWkI_rpsXPaJdAUhQDDzBnDHPeqbwhkGs5TRx5n1l4GdMCHhKTdGOBzqQ3rwJq7y0wjHYWmqGu4Rq8AnHPGiB2b7bl34YvVE_bxsfmgR/s1600/Whatareyouinto.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdFY3VU5kcE5ucThJOHE1cWZqNHNFSWc" target="_blank"><b>- view the unedited raw data for this survey -</b></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: 22px;"><b style="color: blue;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dFlreTA2STZhVjUxeldnV3RNSWxhOUE6MQ#gid=0" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">- send us feedback or help decide the next topic -</a></b></span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-44915977623674055632011-11-01T04:16:00.000-07:002012-04-06T06:24:47.810-07:00November Update<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is certainly a busy time for leather folks. There is a title almost every weekend, and the colder weather makes wearing full leather more fun. Our "What are you into?" data will be coming out soon and the results are fascinating. I'm still debating how best to break it out, but there are some surprises in there.</div>
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As you probably already are aware we've launched the <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/survey-labels-and-identity-2-closes.html">"Labels and Identity 2</a>" survey this month as well. I'd like to take some time explaining why we're exploring the labels included in the survey and why others were excluded. As with most things, why not use a venn diagram to shed some light on the situation! This diagram is simplifies gender in the community a bit, but it does explain my dilemma.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MlWBnAYVAqLxiRKPg8-S29lZmi7DJBs5atrMviCLS_YdvJWxhn1hhgufxWo7q0QmX9bsc9MkG-sBrGWE_FF26pepxynMTUG5SjIrnIitp35-gtA2nFrziQ8VB0n8tjeLuggb3MeJUjug/s1600/Audience.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MlWBnAYVAqLxiRKPg8-S29lZmi7DJBs5atrMviCLS_YdvJWxhn1hhgufxWo7q0QmX9bsc9MkG-sBrGWE_FF26pepxynMTUG5SjIrnIitp35-gtA2nFrziQ8VB0n8tjeLuggb3MeJUjug/s1600/Audience.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the things I enjoyed about the <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html">"What is a boy?</a>" data was the distinctive difference between how boys saw themselves verses non-boys. I wanted to do the same for other labels as well. Unfortunately that meant that we would not have enough identifying with female labels to create an accurate self image of Mistresses, Madamns, girls, ect. I also did not want to clump Mistress/Master together because they are two distinct identities. My solution to this problem is to allow those identifying with under-represented labels a chance to expand on their identity with a paragraph section of the survey. I'll be exploring these labels in a different way in the near future based on the result. In the mean time the female and trans folks in our audience can help increase awareness of the project by mentioning this site on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/leatheridentity" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/leatheridentity" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and on your website or blog.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Current Surveys</span><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="text-align: justify; width: 600px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="vertical-align: top;"><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/survey-labels-and-identity-2-closes.html"><img alt="Labels and Identity 2.0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdZEG2yENkhSRZVycUQiuqvM7fd9VSb3ExPBCuD3qCNtY2Ea-OaCmm2cFJSJkrOA1lxAe4KTbpILxyhurReo1RDzDizj29zBLMRKnrPBtFIo-J52Zp4BckkAwURJ-GL97aQcWEk7xl6PL/s1600/labelsandidentitytwo.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; height: 100px; text-align: left; width: 100px;" title="Labels and
Identity 2.0" /></a></td> <td style="text-align: justify; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/survey-labels-and-identity-2-closes.html" style="font-weight: bold;">Labels and Identity 2 (Closes 12/31/11)</a>: This survey will take inventory of labels and percentage of people using them. The <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html">"What is a boy?"</a> survey provided a dynamic image of boys beyond their often submissive role. The <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/survey-labels-and-identity-2-closes.html">"Labels and Identity 2"</a> survey aims to do the same for other labels.</td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="vertical-align: top;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dDdvSWtfdDgycERLOUIwdk9Xb3dLYWc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank"><img alt="Relationship Models" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXjymOBV4emcrNCyVX2Lcgpp7xJz0-A4TqCqDimldheYiDSTnnR8UL59YDRVjD4_Rs-rA6FpgMhewv_aZZOXw5XiZDr7Nndle7b1cZBezdNmxjlKSI6MsLvg4dkpI3FXk8YGqBRWD3F3J/s1600/relationshipmodels.png" style="border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; height: 100px; text-align: left; width: 100px;" /></a></td> <td style="text-align: justify; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dDdvSWtfdDgycERLOUIwdk9Xb3dLYWc6MA#gid=0" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Relationship Models (Closes 11/30/11)</a>: <small><big>The second and final month of the <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dDdvSWtfdDgycERLOUIwdk9Xb3dLYWc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank">"Relationship Models"</a> survey is here. This survey explores several common relationship models out there as well as their dynamic in terms of jealously and roles away from home. What kind of relationship works for you? The results of this survey will help us explore each model in more detail later.</big><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; font-weight: bold;">Project Data</span></div>
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<tr> <td style="vertical-align: top;"><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/10/data-switch-up.html"><img alt="Switch Up!" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_d9nXzmP6LlKQEgEI3Oe1Rb8qcVlqBLCDoT9bwwF1A3tcjF2dBTu5tQ7CJuhK2M_VoJJQHLD1O65jtN2twpHVVYpe1_IFnqXab6ge9n8c0zTADfhTF5SbwLnQE8HGvgea3E0LP3iZKgF6/s1600/switchup.png" style="border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0px; height: 100px; width: 100px;" title="Switch Up!" /></a><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/09/data-safe-sex.html"><img alt="Safe Sex" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDsn6ZPqVOxD-_J8FsYJCuS0J9DmCbtlGMWJ5W1JF5PWo4aqBzQHL07oOeq8TBfHn1078apzgpzQdr8GlNeibo_rymmWOs3jABwjt5gSwcwRR_ugfep9FSKsx39ThrKkTrINelY0TVRh7/s1600/safesex.png" style="border: 0px solid; border: 0px solid; height: 100px; width: 100px;" /></a><a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html"><img alt="What is a boy?" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPevaD8E17QJsYhpCcJhxUNVSx_GuyJ4lfF56MRzi9mlL9zs9VqlocStDyfnY629Z8bA1u1JYvzbykMD5ky3IHY7XhQfLJQs-lSvJ4pbU1HUhSXN4Nzwi2VzWMiarZMpHTvj3QVZagOMR/s1600/whatisaboy.png" style="border: 0px solid; border: 0px solid; height: 100px; width: 100px;" /></a><a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B52p4_bauj2GZWNhODIxYzYtNDYwOS00NWIyLTgzNWMtNWJlZDQxNzNlMTQ5&hl=en_US" target="_blank"><img alt="Labels and Identity" src="http://leatheridentity.org/images/surveys/labelsandidentity.png" style="border: 0px solid; border: 0px solid; height: 100px; width: 100px;" /></a></td> </tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I would love to hear from you! My continuing goal </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">is to keep this project interesting, unbiased and interactive. I am a one man show here, so I take your feedback to heart. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Overall charts and graphs aren't as exciting as sex sites, but they </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">do help us understand each other better when we're not getting it on.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dFlreTA2STZhVjUxeldnV3RNSWxhOUE6MQ#gid=0" target="_blank">Send us feedback or help decide the next topic</a></b></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-24692718463005593932011-10-28T06:08:00.000-07:002012-04-06T06:25:03.481-07:00Labels and Identity 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdZEG2yENkhSRZVycUQiuqvM7fd9VSb3ExPBCuD3qCNtY2Ea-OaCmm2cFJSJkrOA1lxAe4KTbpILxyhurReo1RDzDizj29zBLMRKnrPBtFIo-J52Zp4BckkAwURJ-GL97aQcWEk7xl6PL/s1600/labelsandidentitytwo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdZEG2yENkhSRZVycUQiuqvM7fd9VSb3ExPBCuD3qCNtY2Ea-OaCmm2cFJSJkrOA1lxAe4KTbpILxyhurReo1RDzDizj29zBLMRKnrPBtFIo-J52Zp4BckkAwURJ-GL97aQcWEk7xl6PL/s1600/labelsandidentitytwo.jpg" /></a></div>
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A lot has changed since I launched the first <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B52p4_bauj2GZWNhODIxYzYtNDYwOS00NWIyLTgzNWMtNWJlZDQxNzNlMTQ5" target="_blank">"Labels and Identity"</a> survey almost three years ago. I've also learned a lot from the <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html">"What is a boy?"</a> survey. I toyed with exploring "puppies" this month, and "slaves" a few months after that, but it seemed to make a lot more sense to look at as many labels as possible all at once. </div>
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Like my original survey I'll be taking inventory of the labels and percentage of people using them. I'll also take a much narrower focus than my original by exploring things much as I did for "What is a boy?" For many, labels are an important part individual identity. They allow us to destinguish ourselves from others while simultaneously connecting with something bigger than ourselvs. They tell others who we are without requiring explanations. The negative side to labels is that they also invite generalizations. The <a href="http://leatheridentity.blogspot.com/2011/08/data-what-is-boy.html">"What is a boy?"</a> survey provided a dynamic image of boys beyond their often submissive role. The "Labels and Identity 2" survey aims to do the same for other labels.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>You may participate in this survey by clicking <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dE50R2hBanA5eVd3ZFhQNGNLTnlyeXc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank">here</a>.</b></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3119489997250983297.post-49883795119018526252011-10-27T05:20:00.000-07:002012-04-06T06:17:16.571-07:00Switch Up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_d9nXzmP6LlKQEgEI3Oe1Rb8qcVlqBLCDoT9bwwF1A3tcjF2dBTu5tQ7CJuhK2M_VoJJQHLD1O65jtN2twpHVVYpe1_IFnqXab6ge9n8c0zTADfhTF5SbwLnQE8HGvgea3E0LP3iZKgF6/s1600/switchup.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_d9nXzmP6LlKQEgEI3Oe1Rb8qcVlqBLCDoT9bwwF1A3tcjF2dBTu5tQ7CJuhK2M_VoJJQHLD1O65jtN2twpHVVYpe1_IFnqXab6ge9n8c0zTADfhTF5SbwLnQE8HGvgea3E0LP3iZKgF6/s1600/switchup.png" /></span></a></div>
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Role reversal and switching can often be a contentious issue in discussion groups. Interestingly enough, the community is fairly unified on this topic. Role reversal is most debated in circles which emphasize fixed roles, often those in D/s relationships. Our <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dDdvSWtfdDgycERLOUIwdk9Xb3dLYWc6MA#gid=0" target="_blank">"Relationship Models"</a> survey explores the prevalence of different relationship models including D/s ones where protocol plays a visible role.</div>
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This survey deliberately applies its questions to individuals. Its data shows that the community is fairly unified in their approval of role reversal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0UH-DCRvnii_W8Y-6PgU3ed9pvKB2DJWGA5cznJqneFAIxmhFj6AKOauEQyZ7dUg_Gat_XTSleAB4tRTfMrapif1UWkTF3tDOdRtnTdcBGAv9sqPsoLXaylyd-68V-pziqz1tnwJKOGi/s1600/Switch+Up-+sex+role+by+age+group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0UH-DCRvnii_W8Y-6PgU3ed9pvKB2DJWGA5cznJqneFAIxmhFj6AKOauEQyZ7dUg_Gat_XTSleAB4tRTfMrapif1UWkTF3tDOdRtnTdcBGAv9sqPsoLXaylyd-68V-pziqz1tnwJKOGi/s1600/Switch+Up-+sex+role+by+age+group.jpg" /></a></div>
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Why the uneven breakdown of age groups? Each age group has greater than 25 participants.</div>
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Any number fewer than 25 is too few to be considered random. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXn9o5fJ5g2qi1Re0YtjXzCHH8P0VUf6nfFevvBQXEOcGZiXqqu-P_g3DctixA1xBn0D9atfpDKYamqpMr42sMBMJa-pI9CYmiobzuJ4tyfy9fmoHw7hSdFLsP2cz7OFbQLKEhxElpuRDb/s1600/roles1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXn9o5fJ5g2qi1Re0YtjXzCHH8P0VUf6nfFevvBQXEOcGZiXqqu-P_g3DctixA1xBn0D9atfpDKYamqpMr42sMBMJa-pI9CYmiobzuJ4tyfy9fmoHw7hSdFLsP2cz7OFbQLKEhxElpuRDb/s1600/roles1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher0_3uV0fvc_6QVTATs4qM5uQFuC-yOLN1Az_E4oDubX5JTPv5_rYHe-EXdQYCqaNE6Pc-pYbIl4ChuD9gA4HSAGuk6Ir28o_phyKssfLJYKZnn1-HuDApeXCKRGbNDbDeEDA4EfB5NXx/s1600/roles2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEher0_3uV0fvc_6QVTATs4qM5uQFuC-yOLN1Az_E4oDubX5JTPv5_rYHe-EXdQYCqaNE6Pc-pYbIl4ChuD9gA4HSAGuk6Ir28o_phyKssfLJYKZnn1-HuDApeXCKRGbNDbDeEDA4EfB5NXx/s1600/roles2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hP0BfdhSNt9G8QSaxtsB7hbvtQWoiN8e3JSjERwS9svsMAso6hF95Ji7PBa-wR9jPdpUeBIUKw-n-OnSsFCD3ilRSD6gKuR14XIPYrLm4niDusJNnaL6AplABosm_d35tvsuBaEm7yE/s1600/roles3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hP0BfdhSNt9G8QSaxtsB7hbvtQWoiN8e3JSjERwS9svsMAso6hF95Ji7PBa-wR9jPdpUeBIUKw-n-OnSsFCD3ilRSD6gKuR14XIPYrLm4niDusJNnaL6AplABosm_d35tvsuBaEm7yE/s1600/roles3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNwgRcT7artG7aCpK2kKa8eRFs5zCZ8RF0fpX-7JgwOsV78QxYKgmE8Pb8NohGdAks1gztZ7aGSPjPARyM6KFUSK4gMHedXLHaPLCWtBRWqs4VQESSRGaDKvg91dWoIJu_Unk2thRufcJ/s1600/roles4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNwgRcT7artG7aCpK2kKa8eRFs5zCZ8RF0fpX-7JgwOsV78QxYKgmE8Pb8NohGdAks1gztZ7aGSPjPARyM6KFUSK4gMHedXLHaPLCWtBRWqs4VQESSRGaDKvg91dWoIJu_Unk2thRufcJ/s1600/roles4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKVqZuOoP9lkrrCdVrOfXZ0aTk09hUNtvG7uO34G6Uw2e5TzLmfWzUvxiZHmzgKDFH2PNeuEQk3iGxchovfzH3f4ZkGC50p3A7jsmrS1hKktGf1LJ6MC0Uv9tsrolXeLYcIRX-VzzLC5D/s1600/roles5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKVqZuOoP9lkrrCdVrOfXZ0aTk09hUNtvG7uO34G6Uw2e5TzLmfWzUvxiZHmzgKDFH2PNeuEQk3iGxchovfzH3f4ZkGC50p3A7jsmrS1hKktGf1LJ6MC0Uv9tsrolXeLYcIRX-VzzLC5D/s1600/roles5.jpg" /></a></div>
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To view the unedited raw data for this survey click <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Ap2p4_bauj2GdENoSEs0VlZRTVhzcDdBcXVHeENqRHc&hl=en_US" target="_blank">here</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com