07/13/2026
At the beginning of June, Kentucky Leather committed to completing reviews of allegations brought forward against two organizational volunteers. We are honoring that commitment today with the resolution of the second matter.
The first matter was addressed in our June 18, 2026 statement, posted to Facebook and Instagram. Kentucky Leather considers this matter fully addressed and resolved.
In the second matter, a representative for the Kentucky Leather organizing committee contacted a peer organization, the Derby City Sisters. During that conversation, statements were made by this representative without the knowledge or authorization of the Kentucky Leather committee. This communication damaged Kentucky Leather's valued relationship with the Derby City Sisters. Upon notification, Kentucky Leather immediately removed the representative from the organizing committee while a review was completed.
After review, Kentucky Leather took the following actions:
The representative acknowledged his error, accepted his suspension immediately, and issued a written, personal apology to the Derby City Sisters and its leadership.
Kentucky Leather clarified to all committee members, representatives, and volunteers that only the organizing committee as a whole speaks for Kentucky Leather — no individual member is authorized to act or communicate on Kentucky Leather's behalf.
Kentucky Leather would like to publicly apologize to the Derby City Sisters for the harm caused by our representative’s statements. This conduct does not reflect the integrity to which Kentucky Leather holds itself. We remain committed to our partnership with the Derby City Sisters and to rebuilding our relationship as we move forward.
At this time, the Kentucky Leather organizing committee considers this matter closed and the representative has been fully reinstated.
If you have information relevant to any Kentucky Leather matter, please reach out to us at [email protected]. All communications will be kept confidential.
Kentucky Leather is committed to holding itself to the same standards it expects of its community. This community deserves better — and we remain committed to doing better.
— Kentucky Leather Organizing Committee