Leather Leadership Conference 2013

Philadelphia, PA

Leather Leadership Conference

The Leather Leadership Conference (LLC, Inc.) is an organization dedicated to strengthening the SM/Leather/Fetish community by providing the stepping stones of learning and knowledge to assist in the development of the leadership skills of community members. Our goal is to aid in the growth and success of organizations and community groups through the development of these skills by providing access to leadership information and topics. By strengthening the leaders in our community we hope to facilitate a greater sense of connection between and within community groups.

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING

In 1997, John Weis and his NYSMA colleagues joined forces to produce the first Leather Leadership Conference. Their goal was to produce training sessions for current and potential leaders of the SM/Leather/Fetish community. The first conference, held in NYC, drew more than 40 participants.

Elated, John sought input from others and continued the concept. In 1998 the LLC II conference, also in NYC, drew 125 people and produced two policy statements, “The Difference Between SM and Abuse” and “BDSM Education.”

In 1999, the conference moved to San Francisco, attracting approximately 275 participants. At the same time, the informal Board of Governors decided to formalize the organization. Leather Leadership Conference, Inc. was incorporated, and and its 501(c)(3) status was approved by the IRS in 2005 retroactively to 1999.

A record number of 306 participants attended LLC 2000 (LLC-IV) in Washington, D.C. The conference introduced several new twists, including the very successful poster sessions and the establishment of a permanent website for the organization. Planning to expand the Leather Leadership Conference, the Board voted to expand to nine positions. Openings were announced and nominations were solicited, with selections to be made in June.

Each yearly conference since has added new, interesting and successful ways for community members to gain leadership skills and to network with one another.

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