Chuck Renslow, founder of International Mr. Leather, dies

[+ Cock Eyed Optimist]

Chuck Renslow, 87, passed away a few days ago. He was a leader in the gay rights movement in Chicago starting from the 1950's. He started IML, owned one of the first gay bars in Chicago, started the first gay newspaper in Chicago, and owned the Man's Country bath-house and Eagle Leather Bar in Chicago. He also founded the Leather Museum in Chicago, which in part is funded by proceeds from IML.

 

https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20170630/boystown/chuck-renslow-obituary-died-international-mr-leather

[rvwnsd]

One of the reasons the leather community is so pervasive in Chicago is its intertwined history with the gay rights movement.

 

RIP Chuck Renslow.

[marylander1940]

Chuck Renslow, 87, passed away a few days ago. He was a leader in the gay rights movement in Chicago starting from the 1950's. He started IML, owned one of the first gay bars in Chicago, started the first gay newspaper in Chicago, and owned the Man's Country bath-house and Eagle Leather Bar in Chicago. He also founded the Leather Museum in Chicago, which in part is funded by proceeds from IML.

 

https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20170630/boystown/chuck-renslow-obituary-died-international-mr-leather

 

I'm sorry to hear that. Leather is not my type yet is so important for so many folks in the gay community who just don't fit the specific stereotype of what it looks to be gay...

[rvwnsd]

I'm sorry to hear that. Leather is not my type yet is so important for so many folks in the gay community who just don't fit the specific stereotype of what it looks to be gay...

I can't speak for other cities, but in the 1980's and 1990's the leather community in Chicago was about more than just leather. They were the guys who walked people to their cars/the bus/the L, they welcomed everyone into the leather bars (even when NOT dressed in leather), and made the gay community a better place.