ONYX [Edit]

ONYX is an organization in the leather community operated by men of color. It was founded in 1995 to provide education, fraternization and serve as a bridge for men of color to the greater leather community. 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 and support the community and economic initiatives.

The founding members of ONYX were organized by Mufasa, and include David M., Steve B., Nate G. and Wes G. They formed the first Board of Officers with Mufasa (president), Nate (VP), David (Pledge Master), Wes (secretary) and Steve (treasurer). ONYX’s first pledge was Bill H. and the colors were designed by ONYX brother Charles C. of Caliber Leathers.

ONYX has had a long standing reputation within the leather community with members nationwide and internationally. It is the longest existing leather club for people of color and is known for its hospitality and its infamous annual ONYX Leather Dance at International Mr. Leather Weekend in Chicago, and its cocktail party at Mid Atlantic Leather in Washington, DC. ONYX celebrates its bi-annual anniversary with our ONYX BLACKOUT Weekend Run, which occurs in the fall of each year.

ONYX has always been involved in charity work. The chapters, Midwest (based in Chicago), Southeast (based in Atlanta), Northeast (based in New York City), Mid-Atlantic (based in Washington, DC), Southwest (based in Los Angeles), Great Lakes (based in Detroit) and Northwest (based in San Francisco) all are involved in contributing back to the leather, LGBTQ and people of color communities. HIV prevention and care organizations and those that aid youth have always been of note.

All who support the cause may become members of ONYX.