Last week, International Mr. Leather (IML) founder Chuck Renslow issued a press release stating that they "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."
The internet has been buzzing about this decision, with safe-sex advocates applauding the move. On the other side, frustrated pro-bareback bloggers have been calling attention to a CDC study on the declining rate of HIV infection, insisting that there's no connection between watching bareback porn and having bareback sex. Some have even said that if IML is so concerned over participants' health, they'd consider a ban on smoking--an activity that they believe will kill more people in the leather community.
But let's get back to those safe-sex advocates, who point out that the CDC study refers to overall numbers. They argue that other studies suggest that men who have sex with men, particularly of the younger variety, are most affected by new HIV infections. Others have reflected on the role pornography and pop culture played during their developmental years, highlighting a need for better health education for LGBT youth.
I could go on for days recounting some of the arguments floating around, but perhaps we should engage in our own little debate. What do you think about IML's decision to ban bareback vendors and merchandisers?
- Dewitt
Photo credit: Beth Rooney
For the full press release from Chuck Renslow, follow the JUMP: