We received this very interesting email from a former IML title holder and member of International Mr. Leather's board of director's. He alerted us that we've been banned from IML.
Well you can add IML to the growing list of entities who feel we are simply too hot or too bad to be associated with.
Let us know what you think about this in the comments section. Read on below...
TO: Paul Morris, Treasure Island Media
Sir:
As you are probably aware, the following policy was adopted by the IML board, and is effective immediately:
"To that end, after considerable discussion, the Executive Committee of International Mr. Leather has decided that it 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. This restriction will also apply to distribution of gifts, post cards or any other information via our facilities." (I have attached the entire letter at the end of this email.)
This is a very pointed ban, targeting your company specifically. I have publicly called for the ban to be repealed, but my voice carries little, to no weight with the elite in our community. It appears this ban would logically apply to vendors selling poppers, non-latex friendly lubes, and vendors selling publications that might describe or depict bareback sex. That's a LOT of vendors. That is, if the policy is enforced evenly.
However, I suspect you could make a little hay with this? I am sure you guys are pretty creative, but a few themes are suggested for your advertising:
TOO HOT FOR IML!
BANNED AT IML!
SEE WHAT THE PRODUCERS OF IML DON'T WANT YOU TO SEE!
That kind of thing. Given IML's reputation, I suspect anything banned by them would be an endorsement of your DVD's. Therefore I would treat this as a marketing opportunity to greatly expand your base of loyal customers.
I remain, your happy repeat customer.
signed: IML title holder
(we have removed his name to protect his identity from IML)
(this is the actual letter from IML)
International Mr. Leather, Inc.
Dear Vendors:
On behalf of International Mr. Leather, Inc., I would like to thank you for your past support and in particular for your participation as a vendor in our annual Leather Market. We are writing you today to inform you of a policy change affecting next year (2010) and all future markets.
Though we are now three decades into the HIV/AIDS epidemic, no cure has been found. The CDC and local health officials inform us that new infections are on the rise. And, 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. We believe that it is our duty to inform and educate. Several years ago when “Meth” was the scourge of our community, IML drew a line in the sand and raised awareness and used all our influence to try and stop this addictive madness. As is the case with HIV/AIDS, we believe it is our further obligation to do everything in our power to prevent future infections.
To that end, after considerable discussion, the Executive Committee of International Mr. Leather has decided that it 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. This restriction will also apply to distribution of gifts, post cards or any other information via our facilities.
This policy takes effect immediately.
Sincerely,
Chuck Renslow, President
International Mr. Leather
And be sure to check out Dark Alley Media's response
here.
