In a letter to vendors, International Mr. Leather (IML) President Chuck Renslow has said that the event “will no longer allow participation in the IML Leather Market by any entity which promotes barebacking or distributes/sells any merchandise tending to promote or advocate barebacking” starting next year.
The letter also stated that “while we have had some success developing medications that might make infection more manageable, that accomplishment comes at a price. Not having experienced the deaths—the loss of loved ones—which preceded these medications, we have an entire generation who may not fully appreciate or comprehend the severity of the situation.
“Too many in our community believe HIV/AIDS is curable or manageable. Too few understand that HIV/AIDS infections dominate life.”
Next year’s IML will take place May 27-31 at the Hyatt Regency, 151 E. Wacker.