Underground Fetish Amsterdam: Proudly Queer & Fetish Positive

Every year on May 17, the world observes the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. At Underground Fetish, we mark this day with pride, reflection, and an unwavering commitment to the values that define our shop and our community: authenticity, consent, freedom of expression, and radical acceptance.
The date itself carries powerful history. On May 17, 1990, the World Health Organization finally removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. That single act was a global turning point, but it was only the beginning of a long fight that continues today. In many countries, being who you are—whether gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, or anywhere on the spectrum—still carries risks of violence, discrimination, legal persecution, or social rejection. Even in progressive places like the Netherlands, subtle forms of prejudice, exclusion, or everyday micro-aggressions persist.
As a fetish store in the heart of Amsterdam, we see every day how closely intertwined sexual freedom and LGBTQ+ rights truly are. The kink community has always had a deep overlap with queer spaces. Many of our customers, friends, and team members live at these intersections. Leather, rubber, latex, BDSM practices, and alternative sexual expression have historically provided safe outlets for people whose desires didn’t fit neatly into mainstream heterosexual norms. From the leather bars of the 1970s to today’s vibrant Amsterdam scene, fetish culture has offered belonging when other doors were closed.
At Underground Fetish we believe that true liberation includes the freedom to explore your body, your desires, and your identity without shame. Whether you’re a first-time visitor nervously looking for your first harness or an experienced player seeking that perfect heavy rubber catsuit, our space is built on respect and acceptance. Your orientation, gender identity, relationship style (monogamous, poly, open, or whatever works for you), and kink preferences are all welcome here—full stop.
Why this day matters in our shop
Homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia don’t just harm individuals on a personal level; they shrink the entire playground of human sexuality. When someone fears being outed at work, rejected by family, or attacked on the street, they often hide important parts of themselves—including their fetish interests. This creates isolation, anxiety, and sometimes dangerous practices behind closed doors without community support or knowledge-sharing.
By standing visibly against these prejudices, we help create the conditions where people feel safe enough to explore fully. A trans man who can walk down the street without fear is far more likely to feel confident walking into a fetish store to buy a new packer or chest harness. A lesbian couple who don’t have to hide their relationship can more openly shop for strap-ons or bondage gear together. A bisexual person who isn’t dismissed as “confused” or “greedy” can embrace all sides of their desire without shame.
We also recognize that the fetish community itself is not immune to these problems. Internalized homophobia, transphobia in some kink spaces, and exclusionary attitudes still surface occasionally. Part of our responsibility as a longstanding Amsterdam fetish retailer is to keep raising the bar—through inclusive product ranges, clear anti-discrimination policies in our store, and by amplifying diverse voices within the scene. We stock gear that fits a wide variety of bodies and identities. Our staff is trained to treat every customer with dignity. We celebrate Pride not just in June but in how we operate 365 days a year.
Amsterdam’s role and our local commitment
Amsterdam has long been a beacon for queer and kink travelers. From the famous Canal Pride boat parade to the leather and fetish events that draw people from across Europe, this city understands the power of visible celebration. Yet even here we must remain vigilant. Recent years have shown that rights can never be taken for granted. Political shifts, rising intolerance in parts of Europe, and online harassment remind us that education, visibility, and solidarity remain essential.
On this IDAHOBIT, Underground Fetish reaffirms our pledge:

To create a physical and online space where everyone feels seen and respected.
To support organizations and initiatives that fight for LGBTQ+ rights both locally and internationally.
To promote consent culture, which is fundamentally incompatible with any form of discrimination or coercion.
To listen, learn, and grow whenever members of our community point out ways we can do better.

We also want to celebrate the joy. The vibrant energy of a packed leather bar, the satisfaction of finally finding gear that fits your body perfectly, the deep trust built in a well-negotiated scene—these experiences enrich life. They are worth defending.
Small actions, big impact
You don’t need to attend a massive march to make a difference. Wear your colors. Speak up when you hear casual prejudice. Support queer and trans-owned businesses. Educate yourself on issues affecting bi and trans people specifically. If you’re in the fetish scene, make your events and play spaces actively inclusive rather than passively “open.”
To our customers and community: thank you for trusting us with your desires and your identities. Whether you visit our physical store near the Red Light District or browse our online collection from anywhere in the world, know that you are part of something bigger than retail. You’re part of a living tradition of defiance against shame.
On May 17 and every day, Underground Fetish stands with you. Love is love—and so is kink. Both deserve to exist boldly, safely, and without apology.

We look forward to seeing many of you in the shop. Come as you are. Explore freely. Leave empowered.

Underground Fetish – Amsterdam
Proudly queer-friendly. Fiercely fetish-positive. Always fighting for freedom.