Less than one week. Let that sink in, in less than one week’s time, not even seven days…
A person who was chosen to be an international title holder was verbally attacked. This person was called a “chicken shit” because they chose to follow their heart and compete in a contest that was more them. This person was a bootblack who won a Mr title and instead of running for IML, they chose to run for IMBB. Not only did they run for this title, they ran hard, all weekend. Waking up in the early hours, busting their ass for eight hours shining boots, leather, and more. After an eight hour service shift, they were required to attend events, parties, and more each night, maybe returning to their bed in the wee hours of the night. Repeating this for days. They were judged by their peers, the public, and a distinguished panel of judges. They were up against an amazing group of fellow Bootblacks who also worked just as hard. And out of the four contestants, they received the highest scores and walked away with the title of International Mr Bootblack.
While some people may think that being a bootblack is something less than being a Leatherman, it is hard work and talent that goes far beyond what the Leatherman can do on his own. Who do you think helps that leatherman look their best? The bootblack helps make that leather shine on the stage. The bootblack helps keep that gear healthy and last longer. The bootblack at times gives that leatherman a place to escape, rest, and even hide at an event while the BOOTBLACK is still working.
I know change is hard, either get with it, or move the fuck out the way for the next generation to make positive change… cause with or without you, its happening!”
To diminish a person less than one week after they earned an international title, because you believe that they should have run for a different international title is very unbecoming of any leatherman. It doesn’t matter if your old guard, new guard, or somewhere in the middle. To take the shine away from someone because you think they are less than a Leatherman is what is “chicken shit”. Leather is changing and will continue to change. In the words of the man, Lucky Ordaz, that you called a “chicken shit”:
“You’re living in a past that never really existed, the “Make Leather Great Again” ideal is a fraud! The leather community is already great and its because of the verity of unique and hard working individuals that make it so!
From bootblacks to Queers, femmes to Fabulous, bears, puppies and littles, Bisexual, poly, Trans, POC and everything in between, We Are Here To Stay!!!
I know change is hard, either get with it, or move the fuck out the way for the next generation to make positive change… cause with or without you, its happening!”
#representationmatters
