“What is ONYX?”
ONYX is an organization that supports ethnic and racial diversity in the gay leather community. For over twenty-two years, the organization has been the bridge between gay and bisexual leather men of color and the broader leather community. As such, our activities support this particular mission. For example, our monthly bar nights provide a safe space for men and women of color (of any minority group) to bond with each other, and other like-minded individuals who enjoy the BDSM, Kink and Fetish lifestyles. Additionally, we also raise funds to support charities; we particularly support charities that focus on LGBT People of Color, HIV and Care Organizations and organizations that aid youth.
“I’ve heard of ONYX before, but you guys are called ‘ONYX Great Lakes.’ What is the difference?”
ONYX Great Lakes is a regional chapter of The Men of ONYX Inc., which is the National Organization that represents all of the chapters. That means we exist as one of several chapters in the United States.
“I don’t identify as a gay/bisexual man of color. Can I still join ONYX?”
Yes! All are welcome to join the organization as Associate Members. ONYX is an inclusive organization that supports all forms of diversity, including members that do not identify as gay, bi or transgender men of color. This group includes persons of any race, gender, age or sexual self-designation. As an Associate Member, you will be a part of the organization, however, you will be unable to vote in general or board meetings. Again, ONYX is one of few organizations that are inclusive where several others are exclusive.
“I am a transgender person of color. Am I allowed to join ONYX as a Full Member?”
Yes, but only if you identify as a gay, bisexual or pansexual transman. Transmen and transwomen who identify as heterosexual can only join as Associate Members.
“I identify as a gay man of color who is into BDSM, kink, fetishes and leather/bears, but I don’t live in the Great Lakes region. Can I still join ONYX Great Lakes?”
Gay, bi or transgender men of color who live outside the Great Lakes region are welcome to join as an associate member. Our region encompasses: the states of Ohio and Michigan as well as northern Kentucky (including Louisville), western Pennsylvania and Toronto.
“Isn’t ONYX’s membership policy discriminatory against non-men of color?”
No. ONYX sets as its goal to provide an informational and social organization to address issues specific to people of color who chose to project the positive aspects of the leather lifestyle. In order to do this, we have to do so in a forum where we can express our thoughts openly and freely. As allies, it is important to recognize the need for gay, bisexual and pansexual leather men of color to have an organization that serves their interests and needs. By doing so, we provide a unique contribution to the diverse array of leather BDSM, kink and fetish groups.
Go to: About ONYX | About ONYX Great Lakes | ONYX Chapters | Membership Process | Membership Application