FINDING YOUR LEATHER TRIBE by Graham J. Clark
More than 50 years ago, Larry Townsend wrote that most gay men come out once, but leathermen come out twice: first to their sexuality, and again to their fetish. Finding Your Leather Tribe: Leathermen Speak Out on Authenticity, Self-acceptance, and Brotherhood continues that conversation, exploring what it means to live that second coming-out with pride, honesty, and a sense of belonging. Through a blend of personal stories and practical insight, this book brings together voices from across the global leather community. It’s designed to help you feel seen, supported, and connected, whether you’re just beginning to explore or looking to deepen your place within the leather scene. Inside, you’ll find both lived experience and actionable guidance: first-hand accounts from gay leathermen across 12 countries, alongside curated resources you can use right away. From bars and events to social groups and retailers, everything’s organised to help you confidently navigate leather and kink spaces, wherever you are in the world. This book is for you if you’re: A gay man curious about leather and kink, unsure where to start in your own city. A veteran leatherman or kinkster who wants vetted, welcoming spaces when you travel. Someone who values the history, culture, and traditions of gay leather and wants to feel part of that lineage. Inside you’ll discover: Real coming-out stories: 24 deeply personal accounts of gay men coming out twice, first as gay, then into leather. These journeys come from leathermen across 12 countries. A comprehensive global directory: 150+ leather and kink social groups, bars, events, parties, and retailers spanning the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, South America, and Australia. A worldwide destination index: 60+ destinations to help you connect with leather and kink communities just about anywhere. History and culture made accessible: A grounded exploration of leather history and culture, along with 15+ carefully selected further readings so you can deepen your understanding of the gay leather and kink community at your own pace. Practical confidence boosts: Guidance woven through the stories and resources to help you feel less anxious about your first (or next) visit to a leather bar or event, covering what to expect, how to navigate consent and etiquette, and how to stay safe while having fun. ABOUT GRAHAM J. CLARK Graham J. Clark is an out, proud gay man and leatherman whose journey has been shaped by moving cities, coming out, and finding his place in the gay community. Graham discovered leather by accident many years ago and has never been the same since. He is an active member of the local leather and kink community and has been known to give kink performances at kink events in Melbourne (Naarm), Australia. This is Graham’s first book, exploring what it means to come out twice: first as a gay man, and then as a leatherman. Graham (aka @AusLeatherDaddy on Instagram and Bluesky)