Judy Tallwing McCarthey
“Each thing that lives on the earth has its own energy, and I try to put those energies together to create healing.”
If you’ve been around the Leather community for any period of time, you’ve heard of Native American Leatherwoman, titleholder, activist, artist and educator, Judy Tallwing McCarthey. You’ve likely seen her artwork as well. Judy, or Grandmother to many, has spent decades creating spaces where women, POC, and other marginalized voices were seen and heard. Judy is a Two-Spirit elder whose Native identity is central to how she shows up in community. Judy brings a powerful perspective to the Leather community, and does so with so much love and grace.
When Judy came into the Leather scene in the 70s, the Leather community was almost exclusively white and cis-male. Even though she didn’t see herself reflected in the crowd, she didn’t wait for an invitation, or for permission to belong. Instead, she walked in strong, unapologetic and took a seat at the table. That boldness and radical self awareness made her a beacon for other women and POC who were trying to find their way in a community that also hadn’t welcomed them. Rather than sit back quietly, she claimed space boldly.
Judy has held titles and honors throughout her life. She was our very first International Ms. Leather in 1987. She was recognized as a Pantheon of Leather in 1996. Her art is displayed in the Smithsonian, and the American Visionary Arts Museum as well as the Heard Museum. And in 2014, Judy was invited as an Artist-in-Residence at the Halles St. Pierre Museum in Paris, France. She has been an animal rescuer, a domestic violence advocate and a business owner. Judy has worn many hats, and has stood on many stages. But most importantly, she has been a constant in our community, mentoring, leading, teaching and healing.
I would be remiss not to tell you that Judy’s art is something so sacred and special. She doesn’t just paint beautiful pictures - she pours her heart and soul and medicine into them. She uses many natural elements in her pieces; things like diamond dust, natural gemstones, copper, turquoise and prayer beads, to charge these pieces with healing energy. To see Judy’s beautiful work, please check out Tallwing Art.
If you’ve ever heard Judy speak, you know that she carries herself with the weight of an elder, but is also humble and kind. She has so much wisdom that she freely shares with anyone who sits and talks with her. People walk away from her feeling like they’ve been both challenged and blessed. If you haven’t sat and gotten to know Judy, do yourself a favor the next time you see her out, and ask to sit with her for a few moments. You’ll be so glad you did. Every time I sit with Grandmother, I learn something. I don’t care how busy I may be at an event, I make sure to find her and share space. It truly is a gift, and I am very grateful to know her.
Judy Tallwing’s legacy lives in every Leatherperson who chooses authenticity over assimilation. She is an icon, not only because of what she’s accomplished in her life, but because of the wisdom and pride she has so generously passed on to others.
Judy Tallwing never accepted invisibility. She demanded space for women, for people of color, and for truth and honor in Leather. She is a warrior, a leader, a healing presence and a gift to the Leather community.
