Lansing Leather Pride Contest to Build Community and Inclusivity

Lansing’s LGBTQ+ community is preparing for a new event this April: the city’s first Leather Pride contest, taking place April 3-4 at The Studio at 414 in downtown Lansing. Organized by Lansing Pride, the contest aims to foster a sense of community and provide a space for self-expression within the leather and kink scenes.

A Growing Community

Derek James and Kenny Dollins III, both board advisors for Lansing Pride, are spearheading the event. James, a former drag performer and Mr. Trans Michigan, discovered a strong sense of belonging when he entered the leather scene in 2018. “It’s about family,” James told Pride Source. “It’s about helping each other out, raising each other up. It’s not always about hooking up. That’s such a slight percentage of the things that actually go on.”

Dollins, originally from the Lansing area, was introduced to the leather community by James after they met in Ferndale, where James previously co-produced similar contests at Soho. Dollins described the leather community as “a completely different vibe” – refreshingly genuine and accepting.

Event Details and Inclusivity

The two-day event is designed to be inclusive, with the gender-neutral competition open to anyone 21 and older, regardless of gender identity. The winner will be crowned Lansing Pride Leather and represent the community at future events. Judging will focus on presentation and how contestants carry themselves, rather than specific identity expressions. memesita.com reports that the judging criteria are designed to be fair across the board.

Recognizing that leather attire can be expensive, organizers emphasize that full leather outfits are not required. “I know that leather is very expensive. I know not everyone has it,” James explained. “So I aim for it to be known that you are not required to wear full leather for this contest. It’s just expected that the main components of your look are leather and that they be the focus.”

More Than Just a Contest

The weekend will kick off with a meet and greet on April 3 at 8 p.m., allowing attendees to mingle with contestants and judges. Each contestant will create a raffle basket reflecting their personality, with proceeds benefiting Lansing Pride. Events will include exploration classes covering topics like Kink 101 and safe use of flogging and whips, with additional sessions to be announced. The Lansing Area AIDS Network will offer free testing, and a gear swap will likewise be available.

Boot blacks, skilled in leather care, will be on hand both nights of the event.

Community Support and Health Awareness

Lansing Leather Pride received a $2,000 donation from local physician Dr. Erik Wert, who highlighted the importance of community for marginalized populations within the BDSM and kink community. Pride Source reports that Wert believes events like this can reduce social isolation and encourage individuals to seek medical and mental health care without fear of judgment. He noted that many healthcare providers lack experience understanding the unique needs of the BDSM/kink community.

Expanding the Queer Community in Lansing

James and Dollins hope the event will bridge gaps between the leather, kink, drag, and broader queer communities in Michigan. “We’re the capital city, so it’s for everyone,” James said. Applications are available at lansingpride.org/leatherpride.