Cee Jay Lyons

Cee Jay Lyons was crowned the new Mr. Eagle in October and since then, he has hosted a number of events for the bar that have helped raise funds for LGBT causes.

“My main duty as Mr. Eagle NYC 2014 is to represent the bar with dignity and respect,” explains Lyons. “I also serve as a liaison to the leather community and the clubs in our area and to promote education, mentoring and community service in the leather community.”

On February 13, that responsibility extended to hosting The Eagle’s Valentine’s Day-themed fundraiser Leather and Love, an annual event that raises money for local non-profit Housing Works.

“Housing Works provides housing, medical and prevention service for those affected by HIV/AIDS. Each year, they host an evening specifically geared to the sale of leather and fetish gear to the leather community and its supporters. It has become tradition that Mr. Eagle co-host the event.”

Choose one in each grouping:

Valentine’s Day Date: restaurant, dinner at home, movie, party
Perfect Valentine’s date would be dinner at home.

Essential Leather Gear: hat, armband, harness, pants
Boots. Well fitting jeans, basic white T-shirt, harness and hanky of choice based on your leather and fetish interest

Short Answer:

How did you become involved with the Eagle and the Leather community?
I’ve always been interested in leather and kink but I first learned about the leather community while living I Tennessee. I met a friend who became mentor and part of my leather family. After moving to New York, I was fortunate to meet some great mentors in the community who showed me what it was truly about. I became involved with ONYX NY Northeast and Leather Pride Night NYC as well as attending Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend. The Eagle NYC and the other leather bars around the world serve a safe space for Leathermen to be amongst other Leathermen. It’s usually a source of history for our community.

What do you think is people’s biggest misconception about the leather community?
The biggest misconception is that the leather community is all about sex. There is a strong sense of community based on acceptance.

What’s your go-to drink?
Jack and Ginger Ale

What’s your favorite neighborhood in New York?
I love Brooklyn

What would be your advice to anyone looking get more involved with leather events?
Attend an event hosted by clubs and organization. These are usually the leaders in the community and their willing to educate you and guide you along the path that you choose.

What’s a trend you wish would die?
The use of terms like no fats, no fem, etc.

What’s one of your favorite quotes?
“Leather is who we are, kink is what we do.”

What’s in your fridge?
Applesauce, cheddar cheese, boneless chicken breast and tons of bottled water

Where do you buy/get most of your leather gear?
FM Leather Design and The Leatherman NYC

What’s the most played song on your iPod?
“What An Experience” by Janelle Monáe