When we applied for a street fair permit for an outdoor leather festival, we were met with tremendous opposition from a very vocal member of the local community board, implying that Leather people belong behind closed doors and out of the public eye where children and others could see them. Not knowing how to handle this, I immediately contacted the NCSF for their help in this matter. After speaking with Susan Wright at the NCSF, I was more than armed with important information and a long list of our rights, feeling ready to face not only the community board but the local press with confidence and knowledge.
 
Because of a ten minute conversation the NCSF, not only were we awarded the street fair permit for the event, but the community board voted unanimously in our favor. In addition, the NCSF made sure they were on hand at the Leather weekend, meeting with the media, making sure we came off looking good in the public light.
 
Our event could not have happened without the experience and support of the NCSF and we are very thankful an organization such as this exists.
 
Robert Valin
Executive Producer
New York Leather Weekend