Morley Schloss, 1941-2024
Celebrating the life and transformative impact of a cultural pioneer and trailblazer for body freedom
Morley Schloss passed away on July 23rd at the age of 82 after a courageous battle with COVID-19. His life’s work deeply influenced naturist culture and legal boundaries, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of Sunsport Gardens and into the broader realm of civil liberties. Morley will be remembered by his family and a vibrant community of naturists both at Sunsport Gardens and beyond.
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Morley later attended Harvard University, where he majored in government and social relations. His early career was dedicated to education in Rochester, New York, where he became a progressive educator and founded a school inspired by the philosophies of Summerhill. His commitment to peace and justice led him to run for Congress in 1966 as the “Voters for Peace” party candidate, where he sought to provide a voice against the Vietnam War, advocating for peace and civil rights.
A trailblazer for body freedom
Morley’s journey into naturism began serendipitously at Woodstock in 1969. The festival, renowned for its celebration of freedom and music, was where Morley experienced the liberating feeling of being nude in nature. This transformative experience sparked his lifelong dedication to the naturist movement. Recognizing the need for community, he founded Naturist Rochester, a non-landed group, and even built an indoor pool in his home’s basement by hand to provide a year-round space for naturists in the area.
His involvement in naturist politics was significant. Morley served as president of the Eastern Sunbathing Association, where he championed a series of progressive reforms. He actively participated in free beach demonstrations and top-free activism during the 1980s.
Morley became best known for his pivotal role in the Rochester Topfree Seven case. In 1986, a group of women, including his wife Mary Lou Schloss, were arrested for being topless in a public park. Morley, although not a lawyer, meticulously researched and wrote legal briefs that were instrumental in their defense. Their eventual acquittal in 1992 marked a significant legal victory, affirming women’s rights to top freedom across New York State. Morley modestly recalled in a recent interview, “They used my briefs. Changed them a little bit, but I was very honored and we won unanimously.”
Beyond his legal battles, Morley was a unifying figure within the naturist community. He was one of the initial trustees of the Naturist Action Committee (NAC) and a member of the first elected NAC board when it was established in 1991. His later stewardship of Sunsport Gardens transformed it into a sanctuary of inclusivity and respect, focusing on families. His efforts ensured that the community thrived as a space where naturists could gather, share experiences, and live freely. He was deeply involved in organizing and promoting events, including the long-running Mid-Winter Naturist Festival, which has become a staple event for naturists nationwide.
Morley’s commitment to naturism and advocacy for body freedom extended into his later years. He was a highly visible figure for his involvement in top-free equality campaigns and free beach activism, always pushing for greater acceptance and understanding of naturist values. His dedication was not limited to local efforts; he maintained a national presence, contributing to various naturist organizations and movements, even appearing on the Phil Donahue show in 1986.
An unbelievable legacy
His story and achievements were recently celebrated in an in-depth interview on the Naked Age podcast in June 2024. During this interview, Morley shared insights into his life’s work, reflecting on the cultural and social impacts of his advocacy. His humble acknowledgment of his contributions to significant legal battles and community building was evident as he spoke about his experiences and the victories that shaped the naturist movement.
Morley’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the principles of body freedom and equality. He leaves behind a community inspired by his vision and fortified by his efforts. His life reminds us that passion coupled with action can indeed transform society. As we honor Morley Schloss, we remember a man who lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on the world of naturism and beyond.
Reflecting on his life’s work for Naked Age, Morley said, “Everything I’ve done has always been for values that I cared about. I’ve never done anything violent or to hurt anyone else. The civil disobedience has all been in the spirit of Martin Luther King or Gandhi.” His words encapsulate the spirit with which he approached his advocacy and the enduring impact he leaves behind.
Morley’s story is a testament to the power of individual action and the lasting influence one person can have on a movement. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of naturists and advocates for body freedom. In celebrating Morley’s life, we acknowledge the profound cultural changes he helped bring about and the enduring community he nurtured. His contributions to naturism and social justice will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him and those who continue to benefit from his work. 🪐
“Passion coupled with action can indeed transform society.”
We all reap the benefits of his well-lived life and his commitment not only to naturism but also to social justice. May his legacy live long.
Unfortunately, I encountered Morley only once but didn't actually speak with him. As we lived on opposite coasts, I had no other opportunity. This occurred in September 1999, when Morley was 58. I just happened to be poking around in Berkeley, which wasn't close to where I lived but was always worth visiting. Purely by chance, there was a small demonstration by a dozen or so mostly naked naturists on Telegraph Ave., just outside the main campus. This is a commercial area, with banks, stores, etc., and plenty of ordinary pedestrians. Though some had children with them, they mostly paid no special interest to the naked people. But I certainly did. I didn't know whether they'd welcome me to join them (and wouldn't have had anywhere to stash my clothes anyhow). But I certainly recognized Morley. And I had a camera with me - so got some interesting shots. Morley is in a few of those.
I don't know whether it's possible to include photos in a comment (probably not), but I could send some to Evan if he's interested.