Help a Leather Legend: David Rhodes Needs Us

David Rhodes has been a cornerstone of the leather community for nearly four decades. In 1987, he founded The Leather Journal a groundbreaking publication created out of a simple yet powerful need, to connect us. Through news, contest coverage, club announcements, and community stories, The Leather Journal became the beating heart of leather culture across the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Currently still in circulation, it remains the longest running gay publication under its original owner.

David has judged over 450 leather contests, including International Mr. Leather (IML) four times, and was rightfully inducted into the Leather Hall of Fame. His vision and tireless work preserved our history, elevated our events, and helped countless people find their place in this community.

Today, due to health complications, David is living in assisted care. And now, it’s our turn to give back. We're raising funds to help support David’s ongoing care, to ease the burden on him and ensure he receives the comfort, and love he so deeply deserves.

If The Leather Journal ever helped you feel seen, if David’s work ever inspired you, informed you, or brought you into the fold, please consider donating. Let’s show David that the community he helped build hasn’t forgotten him.

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Fundraiser organized by Eagle LA Mr Leather 2025 Matias Gomez Constenla, and the Eagle LA