Presenters

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

If a hallmark of strong fiction is three-dimensional “complete” characters, then why should a character’s sex life be left off the page? Maybe it shouldn’t! A sex scene doesn’t have to be prurient, but it can illuminate a character or a relationship in ways that another scene couldn’t. Often, it’s the “missing piece” of a characterization or plot, but we may have been so trained to always keep sexual elements off the page or behind closed doors that as writers we don’t even realize it’s missing.

In this workshop we’ll explore the narrative language of sex and sexuality, identify and unpack sexual tropes, and go over ways to move past societal fears about talking about or showing sex in our fiction. The sex scene should ultimately be one of the colors available on the fiction writer’s palette, even if only sparingly used.

TRIGGER WARNING this class may have pictures and conversations that may make you uncomfortable. But to start making these changes we have to get a little uncomfortable first

In this class, we’re getting real about how Black and Brown folks navigate the kink scene. From breaking down stereotypes to addressing systemic barriers, we’re shining a light on the struggles and triumphs within our community. It’s time to ditch the taboos and have honest conversations. But it’s not all about the problems - we’re also about solutions. Let’s work together to create a kink space where everyone feels respected and celebrated. Join us and let’s make sure that Black and Brown lives truly matter in kink.

Building a bridge of understanding and acceptance can feel difficult when the way you and your partner(s) think and process information is so foreign to the other. Don’t get trapped in a self defeating D/s spiral. The journey for a neurodiverse dynamic can be an enriching one if you work together as a team. Strive to be better humans for and with each other, and deepen appreciation of the ones you care about, as we discuss some of the most common neurodivergent hurdles. Join me in this workshop that highlights all YOU can be as I arm you with the steps to feel safe and seen in your diverse-dynamic and navigate what it means to be ‘different together’ through a power exchange lens.

This is a panel discussion with a diverse group of black and brown bootblacks to talk about their shared experience for the care of all textiles (mainly leather) and some of the joys and gaps to spaces, community, and resources to continue in our journey as leather folks. We have a dedicated set of questions for more serious discussion and pop-up questions for fun and for getting to know the minds of the wonderful people in the discussion. The audience will have the opportunity at the end to ask questions if time permits.

Dr. Stefani Goerlich and Dr. Dulcinea Alex Pitagora are kink-identified sex therapists who have written extensively and affirmingly about kink, and are teaming up to address a glaring problem within the world of intimate partner violence/sexual assault (IPV/SA) support. Current tools for IPV/SA education and support mis-identify kinky relationships as abusive, perpetuating the myth that kink is harmful, which is of course a huge problem for our community. Our goal is to correct this by conducting anonymous focus groups to develop a new power and control wheel for the BDSM community—a kink-affirming tool to help advocates and therapists differentiate between intimate partner violence and consensual kink. We will not receive compensation for this work or any related publication, and what is created will be available for free to everyone. Please note, this session is limited to 10 attendees. (The link to sign up for this session will be made available via Discord to registered attendees).

Dr. Stefani Goerlich and Dr. Dulcinea Alex Pitagora are kink-identified sex therapists who have written extensively and affirmingly about kink, and are teaming up to address a glaring problem within the world of intimate partner violence/sexual assault (IPV/SA) support. Current tools for IPV/SA education and support mis-identify kinky relationships as abusive, perpetuating the myth that kink is harmful, which is of course a huge problem for our community. Our goal is to correct this by conducting anonymous focus groups to develop a new power and control wheel for the BDSM community—a kink-affirming tool to help advocates and therapists differentiate between intimate partner violence and consensual kink. We will not receive compensation for this work or any related publication, and what is created will be available for free to everyone. Please note, this session is limited to 10 attendees. (The link to sign up for this session will be made available via Discord to registered attendees).

This social is for fat and large body queers of color to meet, chat, and find community within one another. A safe space for us to discuss the struggles of being fat queer people of color in spaces that hardly, if ever, center us.

Coming Soon

In this Demo; Echolynx will address their choices for learning and doing wheelchair suspension, outline their choices of where and how to tie themselves and Ink (their chair) and will illustrate the steps of the art of Wheelchair Self-Suspension.

Note, this is a 60 minute session with no late admittance. Please be on time as we cannot allow attendees to enter the call once the demo has begun.

This thought-provoking and informative class focuses on creating inclusive spaces within the realm of kink. It is designed for individuals passionate about fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all. The class offers valuable insights and practical strategies to promote inclusivity and diversity. Participants will explore the importance of understanding and respecting different identities, orientations, and experiences within the kink community. Topics covered include gender identity, sexual orientation, relationship dynamics, disability, and neurodiversity. By the end of the class, participants will have a deeper understanding of inclusivity in kink spaces and the knowledge and skills to actively create and maintain an inclusive environment. Join us in this transformative class to become an advocate for inclusivity, respect, and empowerment within your kink space

Join Mx. Dizzy in a thought-provoking class that explores the intersection of disability and the kink community. This transformative session encourages participants to discover their own disabled deviance within the realm of kink and learn how kink can empower individuals with disabilities through its customizable and adaptable nature. From pain management to social engagement; from confidence building to sensory exploration, kink offers unique avenues for autonomy. This class is a valuable resource for understanding disability and its relationship with kink; benefiting individuals with disabilities, their loved ones, and community leaders striving for inclusivity. Drawing from their personal journey since 2015, Mx. Dizzy brings firsthand experience and knowledge to enrich the learning process. Gain insights and practical strategies to create a more supportive and inclusive environment.

This workshop provides an introduction to restorative justice and its practical application in fostering accountability and healing within communities. Participants will learn about restorative justice processes and how to facilitate them effectively. The focus will be on building a culture of consent through restorative practices.

Gloria Jackson-Nefertiti is very much fascinated by the concept of “Intersectionality,” which is what happens when “…multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect, ESPECIALLY IN THE EXPERIENCES OF MARGINALIZED INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS.” A Black trans woman is probably the best example of a marginalized person possessing multiple forms of discrimination and oppression that intersect. In this interactive class, you will start your journey of learning just how many social identities you may have, as well as how they intersect with each other. (SPOILER ALERT: The number of your overlapping identities is likely more than you think!)

Do you experience guilt, shame, and feelings of inferiority around your kinks, sexuality/sexual expression, gender identity, and/or race? Do you constantly compare yourself to others? Do you see yourself as defective? This interactive workshop tackles the topic of personal shame and the damage that it causes when left unchecked. It also gives participants the opportunity to: understand the meaning of shame; learn the difference between guilt and shame; gain awareness of shaming phrases and behaviors; and recognize when someone is shaming them.

From the perspective of a White, transgender male Dominant and His Asian, nonbinary property, We will examine authority transfer dynamics through an Eastern and Western lens, discuss how we meld two cultures together, and offer an unique perspective on Western ideas of a “powerful slave” and “identity surrender”.

HypnoStory(they/them) and panda(it/they) are so often asked if hypnosis is possible for those with ADHD, they decided to write this class! Both experienced hypnokinksters with ADHD, they will share how they navigate their play, things to keep in mind before/mid/after play, and give recommendations on how to work with your neurodiversity.

This community space will be an opportunity for agender, non-binary, trans, and other gender expansive AMAB people to find community and connection. Topics will include: Physical presentation and dysphoria, how our gender of socialization has affected how we communicate and interact, stereotypes and biases we’ve experienced or overcome, finding connection in queer and kink communities, and any other challenges or joys you wish to share. As an AMAB trans person who has come out in just the last year, I’m excited to share my own journey and learn from yours as we all travel on our personal gender adventures. I look forward to sharing space with you! Allies we love you, but ask that you respect this space as one only for Assigned Male at Birth (AMAB) folks.

This social is for folks who consider themselves to be aging. This is a space for your voices to be heard and your experiences to be highlighted! Whether you’ve been a kinkster for 40 years or are just discovering your kinky self, whether you consider yourself a community leader, or have remained on the outskirts of the community, all experiences are equally valued here. While many folks may experience the pitfalls and joys of aging, we ask that our attendees respect this space for people 50 years and older.

What do we mean when we talk about the “Old Guard” and “New Guard” of Leather and BDSM? What are the origins of these terms, and how has their meaning and use changed over time? How can we consciously build a respectful, caring multi-age community? Are kinky retirement communities the wave of the future? This class provides historical context, and space for open discussion around issues of age, aging, and ageism in our community. The goal is to foster inter-age dialogue, but where the conversation goes will depend on who shows up!

This is a panel discussion with a diverse group of black and brown bootblacks to talk about their shared experience for the care of all textiles (mainly leather) and some of the joys and gaps to spaces, community, and resources to continue in our journey as leather folks. We have a dedicated set of questions for more serious discussion and pop-up questions for fun and for getting to know the minds of the wonderful people in the discussion. The audience will have the opportunity at the end to ask questions if time permits.

Join me as I share my experience as a Black disabled asexual aromantic 24/7 slave, Little and don’t forget Brat in a 24/7 romantic BDSM dynamic. What does 24/7 even mean? How do you balance multiple roles in the lifestyle? How do you navigate love and sex when you don’t experience attraction? How can you be a slave if you have disabilities and headspaces that affect service? What about being a Black woman and a slave in an interracial dynamic look like? Can this work? Let’s review some definitions and talk about what lifestyle BDSM can entail. Content Warning: Racism, Sexual Assault, Bullying, Mental Health Discussions, Talks about shame and guilt, Mentions of suicide attempts.

Come one, come on. Calling all the Littles to show out! Join us for our social for chats, games, or just a place to chill and maybe meet a new friend or two. Stuffies and bubbles are welcome.

This class is about learning more effective communication styles. We always talk about communication but not about EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION. Let’s learn effective communication styles and develop greater listening skills. Is communication different when you’re neurodivergent or communicating with someone who is? Can a series of commands be given by the Dominant and followed to the letter by the submissive? It is quite an eye opening experience to witness how different our communication styles may be. In learning these differences, you will learn how to communicate with one another more effectively and realize that the submissive that you thought was just a SAM, may not be at all. This scene is beneficial for anyone who would like to strengthen their communication skills, whether Dominant or submissive.

We have a saying in this lifestyle, “Never say NEVER!” and if you remain in this lifestyle long enough, you may try many things that you thought that you never would. For many, one of the things that we enjoy is pushing the boundaries and exploring places that we would never want to go in the ‘real world’. We reach into ourselves, many times accessing our darker side and when we let that untamed side out; we find out much about who we are and those around us. Playing with “forbidden fruit” can be enlightening, enticing and it can also be debilitating, and dangerously detrimental if you’re not careful.This is very much a ‘stay in the moment’ type play and may be quite difficult for some to watch as well as quite surprising for those that are excited and fascinated by it. Come and delve into the realm of the things that make some squeamish and explore this type of play with me. Content Warning: the topic itself may be triggering since it involves play that my include race, religion, etc

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

This is a panel discussion with a diverse group of black and brown bootblacks to talk about their shared experience for the care of all textiles (mainly leather) and some of the joys and gaps to spaces, community, and resources to continue in our journey as leather folks. We have a dedicated set of questions for more serious discussion and pop-up questions for fun and for getting to know the minds of the wonderful people in the discussion. The audience will have the opportunity at the end to ask questions if time permits.

This presentation is directed towards those who live with chronic pain/ illnesses or disabilities and how they can still find ways to experience BDSM and educate them on finding out what they CAN do, and how it may help them have a different relationship with pain, a new control over pain. One in four people will experience a type of disability, but this population is still marginalized, and especially so when it comes to sexuality. Disabled people, or those who are sick or in pain are considered to no longer have any sexual health, and this is not correct. I strive to make a positive impact by fostering community, disseminating knowledge, and challenging preconceptions regarding chronic pain and sexuality.

They say actions speak louder than words, and the adage isn’t any less true within the kink and BDSM community. Oftentimes, however, the language we draft has an opportunity to act and create impressions before we have a chance to speak. Whether you’re drafting policies, designing signs for your dungeon, or creating invitations to your event, you will want to make everyone feel included. In “Conscious Language,” Devyn Stone fosters discussion with participants on how to consciously craft language and persona in media and presentation in order to evoke the values and principles of individuals, organizations, and event spaces. Please note: there will be examples of language that may be harmful to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Neurodivergent, and disabled folx in order to demonstrate to attendees what is and isn’t conscious language.

From the perspective of a White, transgender male Dominant and His Asian, nonbinary property, We will examine authority transfer dynamics through an Eastern and Western lens, discuss how we meld two cultures together, and offer an unique perspective on Western ideas of a “powerful slave” and “identity surrender”.

Coming Soon

Join Nath (BeNeLux), Master Kelly (Southern Asia), Ragnarok (The Middle East/Western Asia) and Sunga Konji (Sub-Saharan Africa) in a conversation about how their culture impacts their BDSM experiences. This panel, facilitated by Nath, will examine the why behind American centrism within kink, highlight firsthand kink experiences of the panelists and pose how we may better remove American centrism within our events and communities.

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria is a little-understood aspect of ADHD that frequently co-occurs with anxiety. For submissives in relationships where behavior correction may be part of daily life, the extreme emotional responses prompted by RSD can be even worse pain than a physical punishment. For Dominants with RSD, the roller coaster ride of negative thoughts can damage self-confidence and the trust that is essential to safe play. Finding ways to listen to your partner instead of your brain weasels is a great reward personally and within the dynamic.

Interpreted with American Sign Language

Join Meredith for a sign language social in Gather! This is a completely voice-off social space using American Sign Language (ASL). Anyone who knows ASL is welcome.

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

This workshop provides an introduction to restorative justice and its practical application in fostering accountability and healing within communities. Participants will learn about restorative justice processes and how to facilitate them effectively. The focus will be on building a culture of consent through restorative practices.

The intersectionality of Leather, or BDSM, and disability is, at its crossroads, a grassroots issue of what it means to balance the core of our humanity with our lifestyle, our needs with our desires, our abilities with our yearnings, our spoons with what feeds us. Join Mx Singh, master to eyon and dominant to Echo, as they lead a discussion that focuses on ableism, classism, nociception, and sex positivity within the disabled community as they cross into Leather and Kink spaces, as well as provide tools for moving forward. This class is geared towards disabled persons, and those folks in dynamics with disabled persons on either side of the slash. Voices (and hands) of disabled persons will be prioritized.

In this class about FemDom, I explain how our current society informs many of our kinks, how it’s a struggle for women to take back their power and choose to have the kinky fun they want, where they can finally be truly in control.

Join Nath (BeNeLux), Master Kelly (Southern Asia), Ragnarok (The Middle East/Western Asia) and Sunga Konji (Sub-Saharan Africa) in a conversation about how their culture impacts their BDSM experiences. This panel, facilitated by Nath, will examine the why behind American centrism within kink, highlight firsthand kink experiences of the panelists and pose how we may better remove American centrism within our events and communities.

Come gather with fellow KBTL attendees who identify as kinky and are/have lived the experience of being an immigrant. We aren’t here to gatekeep what that means - if the word “immigrant” resonates with you, you are welcome!

“The next generation” - a social specifically for the up and coming/established leaders and community members! Come chat with like-minded young/younger kinksters about kink, queerness, community, your lived experiences, your joys, your challenges, pressures, whatever comes up! It is a no pressure space for peers where you may chat it up or simply be present.

In this session we will explore how our understanding of sexual and kinky expression and gender identity is impacted by language and how this can limit or expand our experience in the scene. In addition, we will talk about how language can be used in a scene just like any other toy in our collection.

A kink based health class centered around health and wellness for BDSM/Kink/Swing spaces, taught from a healthcare professional point of view. This class will cover these BDSM HEALTH Basics Topics:

• How to assess for health safety of play partners and venues
• Medical Emergencies
• The 3 Types of Cleaning

Additionally, it is imparative to include the challenges faced by individuals from multiple marganilzed communities. This session, delivered by registered nurse, Nik Daring, offers firsthand knowledge of the intersecting challenges experienced by diverse, marginalized and minoritized individuals in kink and play spaces. Content Note: This class does not utilize medical images of blood, wounds or anything that could be deemed as gross or explicit

Ancient India, the land of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Tantra, the land that birthed plenty of religions, spiritual quests and philosophical journeys, also generated several LGBTQ+ tales that were deliberately hidden when preaching the New-Age Hinduism.

Stories featuring gods cross-dressing to transgender gods and goddesses, from gender fluid deities to sex reassignment surgeries, and even intersex deities, our Indian ancestors were very accommodating towards the fluidity of one’s sexuality and gender expressions. Not only did they ensure a safe haven for expression, they also invested in writing novels so as to educate the general public about these crucial theories.

Join me as I revisit these tales, temples, sculptures and artworks and bring them to light and normalize conversations regarding sexuality and gender expressions.

Dive into the world of playful passion and tantalizing challenges as our Erotic Game Show ignites sparks of desire, blending wit, intimacy and laughter for an unforgettable explorations. Test your Naughty knowledge via a Trivia-Jeopardy special on sexuality interactions with “Culture”, “Money”, “BDSM/Kink”, “Literature” and “Science”. Join us as we embark upon this journey through Sex Positivity.

Service is one of the core values of this Leather life that we lead. Domestic service, bootblacking, tea service… so many possibilities, right?! Well, what are you supposed to do when you can hardly get out of bed, let alone make one? Join OYK as she leads a dynamic community discussion that will hopefully help begin to reframe our beliefs and practices surrounding service. We will open with the foundational question “What is service?” and explore some relevant myths and misconceptions. In addition to collectively sharing personal stories in a supportive space we will discuss the journey to service self-discovery; internal and external challenges to service; how to advocate for self when serving others; and the importance of self-care when serving. Finally, the discussion will close with ways the collective community make service more intentional, inclusive, and empowering for all.

HypnoStory(they/them) and panda(it/they) are so often asked if hypnosis is possible for those with ADHD, they decided to write this class! Both experienced hypnokinksters with ADHD, they will share how they navigate their play, things to keep in mind before/mid/after play, and give recommendations on how to work with your neurodiversity.

Do you want to engage with other con-goers and presenters in a casual yet structured setting, make new friends and networking connections? Do you find it easier to have conversations when you’re given a topic? Then step right up to KBtL’s Kinky Speed Meeting. Participants will be randomly matched, and partners will be swapped every handful of minutes. With more than 10 engaging questions, you won’t want to miss this session! About whatever they want!

Join Nath (BeNeLux), Master Kelly (Southern Asia), Ragnarok (The Middle East/Western Asia) and Sunga Konji (Sub-Saharan Africa) in a conversation about how their culture impacts their BDSM experiences. This panel, facilitated by Nath, will examine the why behind American centrism within kink, highlight firsthand kink experiences of the panelists and pose how we may better remove American centrism within our events and communities.

Ethical consent is a key part of play, but how do you manage consent in a System, such as DID or OSDD? Join Robin and the Akari system in a discussion about consent and plurality in kink. Even if you have no exposure to plurality or systems, you’ll get a crash course on the basics as she relates her personal experience navigating kink and her own growing understanding of her plurality, followed by a discussion on systems, consent, and kink.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice. These words often come loaded with complex and difficult conversations but in this 101 level class, we are going to start from the very beginning. We’ll define these terms and others (such as power, privilege, marginalization, tokenism) used in DEI spaces and examine what they really mean. Once we’ve looked at the terms, we will use them to have a conversation about our kinky identities and selves using a popular DEI tool, The Identity Wheel. This tool is often used to help examine identities and hold conversations about how people move through the world. As we discuss some of these pieces of ourselves, we will also explore and share how our identities affect our kink and what DEI terms mean or can mean in our kink spaces.

In this class, we will explore food as a tool both for intense control and surrender and for immense joy. We will build your kinky tool set by taking an in-depth look at three of the most common types of food play: wet and messy play (WAM), calorie control/body modification, and food service/presentation. As we explore these types of play we will learn different ways to cultivate power through food and examine language for the complex conversations this kind of play can entail. For many of us, food holds strong emotion and association. These can be warm feelings like nostalgia and comfort, traumas such as food insecurity or disordered eating, the exhausting love/hate of working in food service, or pride in stories of our ancestors and heritage. It is also simply an essential for human survival. Let’s explore how this unique genre of scene can serve our dynamics and enrich our lives. From a diversity and marginalization lens, food holds different stories for POC, low income populations, those of size, and many other marginalized groups. This class will address all of this alongside addressing the play itself.

Within the kink community - and by virtue of our connections as marginalized individuals - our greatest supports often come from within. Self care as a concept is so important, but when we are often struggling to meet our basic needs, it can feel unreachable or even impossible. Let’s have a conversation about how we can mutually support and offer effective community care to others, and build greater strength and healing together.

Come gather with fellow KBTL attendees who identify as kinky and are/have lived the experience of being an immigrant. We aren’t here to gatekeep what that means - if the word “immigrant” resonates with you, you are welcome!

This is a panel discussion with a diverse group of black and brown bootblacks to talk about their shared experience for the care of all textiles (mainly leather) and some of the joys and gaps to spaces, community, and resources to continue in our journey as leather folks. We have a dedicated set of questions for more serious discussion and pop-up questions for fun and for getting to know the minds of the wonderful people in the discussion. The audience will have the opportunity at the end to ask questions if time permits.

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

You’ve probably got the basic mechanics of strap on sex down. But how can you really feel it, and feel like it’s not just a plastic tool, but part of you? In this experiential workshop, we’ll talk about increasing sensation, myths, benefits, and our relationships to our pelvis & genitals in general, and then we’ll go into experiments to feel more embodiment in our whole bodies, and in our straps specifically. Join Sinclair Sexsmith (they/them), trans butch writer and aficionado of aftermarket dicks, for this deep dive into intermediate/advanced strap on skills. Please wear a strap!

Are you a queer who loves cigars? Come hangout with Sinclair Sexsmith while we bond over our love of cigars and queerness! Whether that’s smoking them or enjoying the atmosphere of a cigar social, we would love to get smoky with you!

This is a panel discussion with a diverse group of black and brown bootblacks to talk about their shared experience for the care of all textiles (mainly leather) and some of the joys and gaps to spaces, community, and resources to continue in our journey as leather folks. We have a dedicated set of questions for more serious discussion and pop-up questions for fun and for getting to know the minds of the wonderful people in the discussion. The audience will have the opportunity at the end to ask questions if time permits.

Join the Alliance for Radical Kink in an all BIPOC space for gently facilitated socialization, cross-pollination and community care across our diverse experiences.

Gather together for erotic stories that will titillate, tease, affirm and inspire. The authors will be Cecilia Tan (Bent for Leather, Slow Surrender), Midori (Silk Threads, The Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage), Laura Antoniou (The Marketplace series), Sharang Biswas (a queer intersection of writing and roleplaying games), Sumiko Saulson (Afrosurrealist with a lean into LGBTQ+ and horror), and Sinclair Sexsmith (butch erotica writer specializing in lesbian erotic fiction). This fabulous group of authors will regale us with their tales of queerness, kink, joy, pain, sex and all the little things in between.

Step into the sultry world of our sex worker social break out room, where boundaries blur and conversations sizzle. Join us for a safe and empowering space to share experiences, learn, and connect with like-minded individuals. (Priority space will be made for sex workers of color).

Looking at Kink and Intimacy work in a post-independence Africa that has a deeply set colonial hangover. Examining the practices inherited from historical and contemporary global north systems and identifying new and independent ways of accessing pleasure that aren’t centered around whiteness in an extremely white country that is majority Black.

Join Nath (BeNeLux), Master Kelly (Southern Asia), Ragnarok (The Middle East/Western Asia) and Sunga Konji (Sub-Saharan Africa) in a conversation about how their culture impacts their BDSM experiences. This panel, facilitated by Nath, will examine the why behind American centrism within kink, highlight firsthand kink experiences of the panelists and pose how we may better remove American centrism within our events and communities.

Playing with People of Color is about filling in some of the educational grey areas when it comes to POC in BDSM. This is not a racism 101 class but we will touch on how racism informs the reason why this class even exists. This class is definitely not exhaustive but it heavily pulls from our own experiences and the experiences of other POC and the things that need to include when presenters talk about BDSM such as:

• Lack of representation
• Lack of accessibility of spaces
• Isolationism
• The emotional labor expected from POC
• Micro-aggressions that are overlooked
• Racial Triggers
• Fetishism

Playing with People of Color is about filling in some of the educational grey areas when it comes to POC in BDSM. This is not a racism 101 class but we will touch on how racism informs the reason why this class even exists. This class is definitely not exhaustive but it heavily pulls from our own experiences and the experiences of other POC and the things that need to include when presenters talk about BDSM such as:

• Lack of representation
• Lack of accessibility of spaces
• Isolationism
• The emotional labor expected from POC
• Micro-aggressions that are overlooked
• Racial Triggers
• Fetishism

Animal Role Play can be a vehicle for stress relief, structure, silliness, and more - but it can also be a powerful means of exploring and validating the diverse, often-fluid fabrics of gender and sexuality. In this class, we’ll take a deep dive into how animal role play can relate to gender and sexuality - finding your animal headspace/s, solo play self-connection techniques, centering validation in our scenes and dynamics, negotiation tips, identity exploration/validation for Handlers, and more. Discussion is encouraged to share our unique experiences. Let’s discover all the ways to help all animal role players feel empowered and seen.

Come gather with fellow KBTL attendees who identify as kinky and are/have lived the experience of being an immigrant. We aren’t here to gatekeep what that means - if the word “immigrant” resonates with you, you are welcome!

There are not many taboos in kinks & fetishes. Playing with our darkest desires is part of the kink & bdsm experience. Some of us play with power. Others play with humiliation. Some enjoy abdl & nursing. But when we move into the realm of playing with race and scenes based on racial stereotypes, things can get quite tricky. In this safe space, let’s have an open & honest conversation about race play & racial stereotypes. How do you define ethical race play?