Education and Research Organizations

The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) promotes sexual health by developing and advancing the fields of sexual therapy, counseling, and education. It provides professional education and certification of sexuality educators, counselors, therapists, and individuals who supervise sex therapists in training. AASECT also encourages research related to sexuality education, counseling, and therapy. www.aasect.org

The Community-Academic Consortium for Research on Alternative Sexualities supports and promotes excellence in the study of alternative sexualities, and disseminates research results to the alternative sexuality communities, the public, and the research community.  www.caras.ws

The Leather Archives and Museum in Chicago is a library, museum and archives pertaining to leather, fetishism, sadomasochism, and alternative sexual practices. Its collection contains published books, magazines, scholarly publications, films and electronic resources, original erotic art, artifacts from alternative sex organizations and individuals, and unpublished papers and records from notable activists, artists, businesses, and organizations. Some of its photos, documents, and recordings are available online through the LA&M website’s Collections page.  www.leatherarchives.org

The Leather Leadership Conference is dedicated to strengthening the SM/leather/fetish community through developing the leadership skills of community members and fostering a greater sense of connection among and within community groups. The LLC also hosts annual conferences where attendees share their knowledge and experience with one another. www.leatherleadership.org