The Controversy Rocking the International Mr. Leather Competition
Introduction
The world of leather, often characterized by its celebration of identity and culture, is currently grappling with a significant scandal involving one of its notable figures. Durk Dehner, a cofounder of the Tom of Finland Foundation, has been removed from his position as a judge for the International Mr. Leather (IML) competition following a backlash over his wearing of Nazi regalia. This has ignited a fierce conversation about inclusivity and accountability within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
Durk Dehner at an event representing leather culture.
The Announcement
IML, the world’s oldest leather conference and competition, announced this shocking news via a Facebook post from its executive director, David Ronneberg. The decision came after numerous social media posts revealed images of Dehner donning symbols associated with the Nazi regime, including a swastika pin. Ronneberg articulated,
“Hate has no place at IML. Period, full stop.”
This statement reflects a profound commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all participants, especially in light of Dehner’s controversial past. The IML competition draws over 2,000 contestants from across 27 countries every year, and such incidents cast a shadow over the event’s reputation.
The Community’s Outcry
Responses to Dehner’s actions were swift and unforgiving. Pup-Diego Onyx, who holds the title of Mr. Bullet Leather 2024, was among the first to speak out, publicly questioning how contestants could feel safe under the judgment of someone who openly displays hate symbols. His poignant remarks emphasized a growing sentiment within the community:
“Why would anyone feel safe running for a contest if he’s a judge?”
The revelation painted a picture of a hidden darkness lurking within part of the leather community, formally critiquing the culture that allowed such behavior to persist.
In tandem with Onyx’s revelations, J.L. Carter, Mr. Sister Leather 2024, shared her disdain on social platforms, disclosing that the acceptance of Dehner’s actions had been something of an ‘open secret’ within the LA leather community.
“It’s why I don’t go to the Tom House anymore,” she lamented, highlighting a fracture in the community’s cohesion and trust.
Celebrations of the leather community, a tapestry of diverse identities.
Background on Dehner and the Foundation
The Tom of Finland Foundation, co-founded by Dehner and the late Finnish artist Touko Laaksonen (known as Tom of Finland), has been pivotal in preserving the legacy of homoerotic art that celebrates hypermasculinity. Founded in 1984, the foundation promotes art through events and exhibitions, creating a cultural refuge for the LGBTQ+ community. However, a strong foundation built on inclusivity and representation now finds itself in turbulent waters due to its association with Dehner.
The recent scandal raises questions about the community’s leadership and the values they uphold. Dehner’s past comments, including alleged racist remarks towards Black and Latino members of the leather community, have only fueled the fire of discontent. These instances of alleged discrimination contradict the very essence of what the Tom of Finland Foundation claims to stand for.
Institutional Reactions
In light of these events, the Tom of Finland Foundation released a statement condemning all forms of hate and racism without explicitly naming Dehner. Edward Cella, the CEO of the foundation, stated on Instagram, “Tom of Finland Foundation unequivocally condemns all racism and hatred, and all symbols that are used to convey such views.” This vagueness begs the question—does accountability extend only as far as public pressure dictates?
As the IML competition looms near, with events kicking off in May 2024 in Chicago, the incident serves as a crucial inflection point for the leather community. The IML has long prided itself on offering a stage that champions diversity, yet the actions of one individual threaten to undermine those very ideals.
An assembly of diverse representatives in leather culture.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the removal of Durk Dehner from his judging role is a poignant reminder of the responsibility leaders hold in representing unyielding values of inclusivity. As the leather community confronts its past and seeks to navigate this turbulent moment, the hope is that such scandals lead to lasting changes that promote safety and acceptance for all individuals involved. The International Mr. Leather competition must now reassess its foundational principles and recommit to a future that is welcoming to all.
In the words of Ronneberg, the IML community must adopt a full stop approach to hate, ensuring that the scandal surrounding Durk Dehner is not just a flashpoint but the beginning of a deeper reckoning within the leather community.
