The National Leather Association (NLA) is a 501(c)(7) fraternal organization established to empower and defend the Leather/BDSM/Fetish community.
We are an organization dedicated to service. This service comes in various areas including education in order to dispel stereotypes, misconceptions, and media misrepresentation about the Leather/BDSM/Fetish family in the community at large.
We are here to build, strengthen and defend individuals, organizations, publications, and businesses within our community against threats to their freedom of expression, freedom of the press, the right of free association and right to equal protection under the law.
Any person 21 and older may join. NLA-Houston does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, ability, or other minorities who have been traditionally discriminated against, or poorly represented in the Leather/BDSM/Fetish communities.
Basic requirements for membership include:
1. Completing a 3 month “pledge” period.
2. Attending at least 3 membership meetings.
3. Participating in at least 1 bar night (prep and selling).
4. Obtaining a TABC certification.
5. Protecting our mascot.
6. Vote of approval by membership at the end of the pledge period.
Our Bylaws can be found here.