What is International Mr. Leather?
[[File:International Mr Leather 29-Chicago Theater-01.jpg|thumb|300px|right|International Mr. Leather Nr. 29, 2007 in the [[Chicago Theatre]]]] '''International Mr. Leather''' (IML) is an international contest for men. It was founded by lovers and business partners Chuck Renslow and Dom Orejudos in 1979. It is held annually in [[Chicago, Illinois]]. The event spans several days. In addition to the contest, the event features workshops, socials, themed dance parties, and a leather market. In 2007, 53 contestants competed from 23 states and 4 foreign countries. 1,800 spectators packed the Chicago Theatre. IML contestants must either be the winner of a bar, local, or regional leather contest or be sponsored by a leather bar, business, club, or organization. A panel of nine judges selects the winner.<ref>Tracy Baim. 2008. ''Out and Proud in Chicago: an overview of the city's gay community''. Agate Publishing. pp. 218-9.</ref> == References == {{reflist}} {{stub}} [[Category:Beauty pageants]] [[Category:LGBT events]] [[Category:Events in the United States]] [[Category:1979 establishments in the United States]] [[Category:1970s establishments in Illinois]]