by Leland Carina
Being President of the San Francisco girls of Leather has been such an amazing experience. When I first posted on FetLife to ask if there might be interest, I had no concept of the incredible potential. When 30 girls showed up to our first meeting, I got an initial idea of what might be in store, yet SFgoL has consistently surpassed all of my expectations. There has been such a glowing, positive camaraderie even from the very first moments. I’m so happy that we have been able to harness that energy for ourselves and for the benefit of the community.
I have watched as countless girls tentatively ventured to our meetings, signed on to become full members, and then have grown to take lead on projects. Witnessing the girls of our community come into their own personal power has been incredibly rewarding.
Not only have we had an impact locally– making the the cover of the San Francisco Bay Guardian, being featured in the Bay Area Reporter, and the Bay Times but we are also known throughout the Nation for our vitality, positive contributions, and tireless hard work. I am so proud of what this group has become. Further, our club’s success has inspired new girls of Leather groups that are going strong in Seattle and Arizona. Dallas, Los Angeles, Houston, Georgia, and New York City are all starting to organize as well.
It is incredibly bittersweet for me to submit my resignation letter. I am doing so mostly because I see that the club is in a very good place to flourish under new leadership; I believe in the need for change in order to keep organizations vibrant and healthy. I will continue to be very active, maintain my full membership, and SFgoL will still be my home club. The time has come for me to venture out farther, to focus on strengthening our club’s connections on a National level.
As far as the club’s future is concerned, I have nominated Kate McKinley as the new President. She has been an incredible support to me and our club as Vice President for our entire existence. I have full faith that she is ready and able to take lead.
In Leather Solidarity,
Leland Carina
