INCLUSION POLICY

 Inclusion Policy for Sydney Leather Men Incorporated (SLM Inc.)

At SLM Inc., we are dedicated to creating inclusive and inviting environments for all individuals who identify as male or masculine and are attracted to others who identify similarly, whether from birth or through gender affirming expression. Our community group offers safer spaces for like-minded leather individuals to connect, socialise, build friendships, and experience a sense of belonging and support within our community.

Who We Welcome : (You Must Meet This Criteria for Membership Approval)

  • Cisgender Men: Individuals who identify with the gender they were assigned and/or presumed at birth.
  • Transgender Men: Individuals who identify as male, regardless of their assigned and/or presumed sex at birth. We fully support and affirm the identities of transgender men within our community. We do not police what defines a trans man and fully respect and value body autonomy.
  • Masculine Non-Binary and Queer Leather Persons: We welcome non-binary and queer individuals who feel a connection to the leather community and present and/or identify as a masculine leather person. We recognise and respect the uniqueness of everyone’s gender identity and expression.
  • In accordance with all these gender expressions, you must be attracted to the same or similar expressions as listed. 

Whilst the name of our organisation includes the word “men”, we recognise this is a construct and term some may or may not identify with. We respect each person’s unique identity and that not all will feel comfortable with this language. Please feel welcome to reach out to us at any time if you have any questions about SLM, its participants and spaces.

SLM Inc – Our Commitment:

  • Inclusivity: We strive to create an environment where all members feel valued, respected, and included, regardless of gender identity or expression in line with those we welcome.
  • Respect: We respect everyone’s right to self-identify and express their gender in a manner that is authentic to them.
  • Affinity Space: We provide spaces specifically designed for male-identifying and masculine nonbinary persons who are attracted to other Male Identifying and Masculine Non-Binary individuals to connect and socialise.
  • Sex Positive: At SLM, we provide spaces that are primarily centered around socialising and bonding. However, we are also a sex-positive club, meaning that members are safe and encouraged to openly discuss and express their sexuality and experiences. It’s important to note that being sex-positive doesn’t imply engaging in sexual activities at our social events. We also have a strong focus on consent, and this includes, but is not limited to, unwanted touch or interactions at SLM settings in person and/or online.
  • Awareness: We are committed to the ongoing awareness and evolution of our inclusion policy and efforts to promote understanding and acceptance of the diverse gender identities and expressions within our community. To learn more about gender diversity and being a positive ally, please check out https://www.transhub.org.au/101

How You Can Help and What’s Expected of You:

  • Respect: Please respect the gender identities and expressions of all members within our SLM community. Adherence to the Code of Conduct is essential, and more specifically, kink/fetish shaming, or any type of discrimination will not be tolerated.
  • Language: Use inclusive language and avoid making assumptions about someone’s gender identity or expression, we encourage the use of people’s names which not only make interactions more personal but may avoid potential embarrassment when using an incorrect gender identity or pronoun. If you are unsure of a person’s pronouns, you can ask. If you make a mistake, quickly correct yourself and move on. See this for more information about pronouns and their value: https://www.transhub.org.au/101/pronouns
  • Support: Offer support and solidarity to all members of our community, regardless of their gender identity or expression.
  • Feedback: Provide feedback and suggestions for how we can further improve our inclusivity efforts and ensure that all members feel welcome and valued. We encourage the understanding and use of our Conflict Resolution policy where applicable. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, we can create a stronger, more united community where all individuals feel empowered to be their authentic selves, something that SLM values highly.

Thank you for your commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion within SLM Inc.