<h2>Integrating Leather Sexuality with Christian Spirituality</h2> <p><strong><em>An affiliate of DignityUSA</em></strong></p> <h4><img alt= src=/sites/default/files/images/defenders.gif style=float:right; height:207px; width:175px>About The Defenders</h4> <p>The Defenders is a group who value and wish to celebrate both their leather lifestyle and their Christian spirituality. Contrary to common belief the two are not mutually exclusive. The Defenders believe that the leather experience can when integrated and spiritually informed actually produce a richer spirituality for us and for the Church.</p> <p>We strive to provide a space that leathermen and leatherwomen will find welcoming and familiar yet unique in its spiritual dimension.</p> <h4>History</h4> <p>The Defenders was established in 1981 in New York City as an affiliate of Dignity New York. By 1987 we had become a national organization. Today we are one of two Leather clubs with a presence from coast to coast.</p> <h4>Our Purpose</h4> <ul> <li>To provide fellowship within the leather community that fosters an individual and collective integration of our spirituality and our sexuality.</li> <li>To encourage a constructive interaction and understanding between the leather community and the Christian community by example.</li> <li>To support the mission of Dignity.</li> </ul> <h4>Affiliations</h4> <p>The Defenders has been affiliated with DignityUSA from the beginning and maintains close ties to this very day. We are a bridge between the Leather Community and the Christian Community.</p> <p>If you would like more information about Defenders USA or any of its local clubs please send your name address phone number and e-mail address&nbsp;to:</p> <blockquote> <p>Defenders USA<br> c/o DignityUSA<br> PO Box 376&nbsp;<br> Medford MA 02155<br> (<a href=http://www.dignityusa.org/>www.dignityusa.org</a>)</p> </blockquote> <p>Or e-mail your request to <a href=mailto:defenders@dignityusa.org?subject=Defenders%20Info>defenders@dignityusa.org</a></p>