XXXTRA DEEPER

A Dialogue with Race Bannon: Unveiling Kink and Advocacy

Scott Tambling for DRUMMER Magazine

Race Bannon has been a pioneering figure in the realm of leather and kink advocacy for decades. His work spans writing, organization founding, and speaking, all aimed at fostering understanding and acceptance.

Race is an influential figure in the community, writing extensively about alternative sexualities and advocating for their inclusion and recognition.

 Founding Kink Aware Professionals and The DSM Project

Drummer Magazine (DM): Speaking of spaces, you co-founded Kink Aware Professionals and The DSM Project. What sparked these initiatives?

Race Bannon: (RB): The inspiration was necessity. We saw a dire need to connect our community with professionals who wouldn’t pathologize our desires. The DSM Project was about altering perceptions, broadening how society and particularly the psychotherapeutic community views kink sexualities.

DM: Your book “Learning The Ropes” was a game-changer. And Daedalus Publishing was the first to focus on nonfiction BDSM literature. Shed some light on that.

RB: I wanted to demystify leathersex, BDSM, and kink – to show it’s rooted in consensual exploration and pleasure. “Learning The Ropes” was about imparting that knowledge in a simple, accessible way. Daedalus was born from a desire to proliferate writings that affirm our way of life.

Shaping Narratives

DM: Through your columns, talk shows, and advice, you’ve shaped narratives around sex and kink. What’s that meant for you?

RB: Writing was my chance to speak directly to kinksters and the kink curious. The advice column, the talk show – it was about building community knowledge, bringing kink out of the darkness. Engaging with people on these platforms has truly been a highlight of my career.

DM: With profound experience in both writing and leadership, what do you believe are the impacts of organizations like NCSF, NLA International, and Avatar Club Los Angeles?

RB: These organizations are vital. They’re at the intersection of advocacy and support, providing resources, and driving research forward. The impact is huge, offering validation and protection for our rights and freedom of expression while giving us spaces to be ourselves.

Acknowledging Contributions and Influence

DM: Among notable honors, you were inducted into the Society of Janus Hall of Fame. What did that symbolize to you?

RB: I see it as simple a lucky nod to my longevity and influence. It’s humbling. The honor symbolized that the work one does can ripple through time, fostering change, and empowering others long after you’re gone.

DM: Your appearance in documentary features cast a spotlight on alternative sexualities. How do you perceive their portrayal in mainstream media?

RB: Media portrayals are improving, but there’s still work to be done. It’s about showing the humanity in each of us, our lifestyle choices, and the depth of our relationships and play.

DM: Tell us about the power of your words when you speak publicly at events.

RB: Each speech, each keynote, each class or workshop is a chance to challenge, to inspire, to ignite a fire. I aim to share not just information, but also passion and a call to action.

A Treasured Accolade

DM: You’ve collected a treasure trove of accolades. Is there one that holds a special place in your heart?

RB: All the awards have been beautiful, but I’m going to mention two. The 2013 National LGBTQ Task Force (now Creating Change Leather Leadership Award was special because it recognized how vital the leather community is to the overall LGBTQ community. The 2015 Key to Folsom Street Fair stands out because it represented not just service, but also the heart and soul of an event and my location community. I see them all as epitomizing our collective freedom and joy.

DM: In addition to your incredible advocacy and community work, you’ve created a significant online presence. Can you share more about what readers might find on your personal site?

RB: Absolutely. My websites are woefully out of date and will be revived sometime soon, but there are numerous places online where I unravel the adventurous side of sex and relationships, particularly honing in on the vast world of kink and alternative sexualities. The best way to find me is on various social media, usually as either @racebannon or @bannonrace. My Linktree will currently point people to everything about me online. Online platforms are spaces where I engage in deep discussions and share insights that encourage knowledge and exploration of one’s unique kink and the communities that embrace them. I’ve shared everything from my debut as a confident Dom on Bawdy Storytelling with Dixie De La Tour, to insightful interviews like the one on the Daddy Issues podcast where I reveal more about my personal philosophy and lifestyle.

Words of Encouragement

DM: Any parting words for our readers, who are on their own journeys of self-discovery and personal growth?

RB: Cherish your path, no matter how divergent. Revel in the process of self-discovery through the lens of kink and alternative sexualities. Remember, each step forward is a revolution in its own right.

DM: Thank you, Race, for opening a window into your profound and deeply personal narrative. Your legacy is a map for others, guiding through the landscape of radical sexuality with determination and heart.

RB: The honor is all mine. Keep exploring, keep fighting, and above all, keep loving in the way that feels truest to you.

(Race Bannon continues to pave the way for deeper understanding and acceptance of kink, leather, and alternative sexual communities. To read more about his thoughts and projects, visit Race Bannon’s Linktree at https://linktr.ee/bannonrace)