Naturist action: A call for leaders in the movement
Step up to join NAC and NEF in defending body freedom and promoting naturism across North America
For over three decades, the Naturist Action Committee (NAC) and the Naturist Education Foundation (NEF) have been at the forefront of protecting body freedom and promoting naturism in North America. From pushing back against restrictive laws to advocating for the simple right to be nude in nature, these organizations have taken on the fight for naturist rights where it matters most: in the public arena and in the courts. Now, NAC and NEF are seeking new board members, individuals ready to help shape the future of naturist advocacy.
This call comes at a pivotal moment for naturism. While cultural acceptance of body positivity has made strides in recent years, reactionary legislation and enduring social stigmas continue to challenge basic freedoms. NAC and NEF have always believed that naturism isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a fundamental human right that deserves protection and respect.
NAC was established in 1991, but its origins trace back to a group of dedicated activists who recognized that naturism needed more than good PR. It needed legal defense, public education, and a strategy to protect naturist spaces. At the heart of this effort was Lee Baxandall, a key figure in naturist activism, who believed that naturism wasn’t just about recreation—it was about freedom. Baxandall’s vision was simple: naturism as a force for change, integrated into society rather than isolated from it.
Joining the NAC or NEF board offers a chance to continue this legacy of activism and engagement. The mission? Secure more spaces where naturists can feel safe, advocate for fair legislation, and educate the public on the positive impact of body acceptance. It’s not just about preserving the naturist community but ensuring its growth in the face of new challenges.
Historically, NAC has taken on everything from court cases defending non-sexual nudity to lobbying for nude beach access. Meanwhile, NEF has led the charge in educating the public, making sure that naturism is seen not as a fringe movement but as a positive, healthy approach to body freedom. Both organizations have worked together to promote naturism as something broader—something meaningful for people of all backgrounds and identities.
Those stepping into board positions will find themselves at the intersection of law, activism, and community-building. There is real power in collective action, and that power is needed now more than ever. The work is challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to not only protect existing naturist spaces but to expand them, fostering a culture of acceptance and openness.
For anyone passionate about naturism and its future, this is the kind of opportunity that rarely comes along. It’s a call to step forward, contribute, and become part of something larger—a movement with a rich history and a promising future.
Candidacy requirements:
Be a legal resident of the U.S. or Canada.
Not be an officer or board member of another national or large regional nudist organization.
Be willing to attend the annual meetings of the NAC and NEF boards each year of his/her term, beginning in 2024/2025.
Submit a signed statement requesting consideration as a candidate for the position of board membership on the NAC and NEF boards and stating that you certify that you meet all board requirements. The statement should include your full legal name, address, phone number, and email address. It should also include an explanation of your background, qualifications, credentials, how much time you can dedicate, and why you should be on the boards. Outline your specific reasons for applying and what you feel you are “bringing to the table” in the form of relevant experience, expertise, education or background. Board members are needed who have time to dedicate, who are willing to write and promote the organizations at gatherings, who can fundraise and contribute, and take leadership on projects. Include three references with names and contact info who can corroborate your qualifications and character.
Submit a statement of no more than 500 words for possible publication.
Submit all information to: NAC and NEF Board Candidacy, PO Box 132, Oshkosh, WI 54903, or candidates@naturistaction.org by the deadline date of October 15, 2024. 🪐
 | A guest post by
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I appreciate the work being done to defend body freedom and promote naturism across North America. I do feel, however, that body freedom cannot be fully promoted without explicitly addressing the right to bodily autonomy, including a written stance on abortion rights as fundamental. I bring this up with respect and a desire to broaden our collective understanding of what body freedom truly encompasses.
My thanks to those who have, seek to, and will serve.