News of the Nude, no. 6
Catch up on the nude-related news that made waves in the past month
Each month News of the Nude brings you headlines from around the globe. Maybe it’s just the effect of Summer ramping up—more nude recreation means more stories about nudity and nudism—all I can say is that this edition, like the one before it, is our longest update yet. I also happen to think it’s the most interesting yet.
This month we have news of the nude and nude-adjacent from Australia, India, Canada, Great Britain, Nigeria, the Netherlands, and here in the USA. We see stories of nudity as an act of defiance, empowerment, and protest. We see it used as a form of expression.
We also see backlash against it. Outrage and contempt over nudity and the human body. We see efforts to repress nudity and expression, and efforts to break free of that repression, figuratively and physically.
We see progress! Sometimes inspiring, motivating, validating progress. Slow progress.
We see steps, forward and back.
As usual, let’s start it all off with a little good news. 🚀
Nude revival: Toronto’s Hanlan’s Point Beach will now be bigger than ever
This month, Planet Nude actually got the scoop on some good news, when
reported that Toronto's Hanlan's Point Beach, which was threatened by a redevelopment plan just months ago, just got news of measures to improve and expand the beach, including designating the entire area as clothing-optional, after community opposition and intense lobbying led to the rejection of the plan. It’s a validating win for Hands Off Hanlan’s, the group that led the activistic efforts to oppose the development plans. This win would not have been possible without their concerted work to collect and protect the history and culture of that beach, and to advocate on its behalf. Hell yeah. 🚀Read the story:
Nude revival: Toronto’s Hanlan’s Point Beach will now be bigger than ever
TORONTO—In March, Planet Nude reported to our readers that Hanlan’s Point, Toronto’s famed clothing-optional beach, was under threat from city planners’ schemes to “redevelop” the Toronto Islands, the huge offshore park where the beach is located. News emerged in February of a “Master Plan” being assembled by the local government which would have seen the erection of a concert and festival venue right next to Hanlan’s, one of two official nude swimming spots in the country and site of Canada’s first Gay Pride celebration back in 1971.
Diners left 'speechless' when naked couple walk into pub to enjoy a meal in front of 'concerned' families - but the owners defend serving them
This story has been like a TV melodrama to follow in the news over the last few weeks. It seems to keep coming back with new developments. Luckily, this week it got a happy ending.
First, a couple of naturists caused outrage when they walked into The Railway pub in Burnham-on-Sea, near Bristol, naked. While their nudity was legal and the staff had no issue serving them, some customers complained. The pub defended its inclusivity and welcomed individuality, but negative reviews appeared on TripAdvisor. The couple, Neil Cox and Danielle Quiggan, had contacted The Railway ahead of time to check if their nudity was acceptable and were given permission to visit. The couple believes the negative reaction does not reflect the actual atmosphere in the pub.
Because of the nudity and the outrage adding allure to this story, the tabloids picked it up like a wildfire. In some of the subsequent reports, the naturist couple expressed disappointment with the negative reviews and highlighted that they had experienced acceptance in more than 500 other establishments before this one caused a media storm.
Neil was quoted in one report, “Danielle and I find it deeply saddening that in 2023 an individual has attacked a small business that is trying to demonstrate acceptance and tolerance.”
Not to be defeated, the couple quickly set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds to support the pub and buy everyone in the community a beer. Not surprisingly, they blew through their fundraising goals right away and are still collecting additional funds to donate to a charity of the pub’s choosing.
Neil and Danielle could have easily tried to hide away from the limelight, let the whole thing blow over and never talk to the proprietors of the establishment again. But instead they found a way to show the community and the world that naturists are not foul people out to cause offense, but good every day people to share a beer with. Furthermore, they did the right thing by finding a way to support the pub and its owners who defended the naturists and their choice to serve them, despite a swarm of unwanted media attention. I just can’t think of a better way to take sensationalized press and flip the script in such a way that everyone—and naturism itself—comes out better in the end. I will raise a pint to that! 🚀
Support their GoFundMe Support for Burnam Pub.
A brief history of nipple censorship and why it matters
This excellent article explores the history of nipple censorship, highlighting the ongoing taboo surrounding female nipples and the lack of progress in challenging societal norms. It discusses the Free the Nipple campaign, the sexualization of breasts, and the need to normalize women's nipples. The author argues for a shift in attitudes and an end to slut-shaming.
I thought the article was a thought-provoking analysis of the persistent censorship and sexualization of female nipples. The historical context and societal implications give a bigger picture view of the issue, shedding light on the need for change. Victoria Bateman's insights add credibility to the piece, and I loved seeing the name of my friend Linda Weber who is a tireless advocate for naturism, and especially women in naturism. It is always encouraging to see articles like this challenging societal norms and promoting body acceptance. 🚀
In case you missed it
‘Almost a spiritual aspect’: the NSW naturists attempting to normalise nudity
Two Guardian headlines to explore here. The first article profiles the Australian Naturist Federation in New South Wales. It delves into their efforts to normalize nudity and promote naturism, despite recent crackdowns and concerns about privacy in the digital age. The growth of the naturist community in NSW has stalled, with fears of being outed and shamed hindering its progress. Police crackdowns and complaints about indecent acts have also posed threats to clothing-optional areas and nude beaches across Australia.
Hard to bare: Noosa’s nude beach crackdown reveals uncomfortable trend for nation’s naturists
The second article focuses on the crackdown on nude beaches in Noosa, Queensland, and the wider trend of revoking clothing-optional status in the country. It highlights frustrations within the naturist community over fines issued for public nudity at Alexandria Bay, a popular nude beach in Noosa. This incident has sparked discussions about legal recognition and protection of clothing-optional beaches in Queensland, with calls for changes in state laws and support from local councils. Similar concerns have been raised in New South Wales and Victoria, where councils have considered removing clothing-optional status due to concerns about indecent behavior.
The crackdown on nude beaches and the revocation of clothing-optional status pose significant threats to the naturist movement. The concerns about privacy, fear of being outed, and the stigma associated with nudity in the digital age have hindered the growth of the naturist community. It is crucial for naturists to address misconceptions, engage in dialogue with authorities, and emphasize the non-sexual nature of naturism to protect and preserve clothing-optional areas. Unity, solidarity, and fostering understanding among naturists are essential to overcome these challenges and ensure the recognition and acceptance of nude beaches worldwide. 🚀
Florida's Nude Beaches Pose a Problem for Ron DeSantis
This article from Newsweek sent nudist advocates in Florida into a stir last week, who worked together across organizational lines to craft an appropriate response.
As the original story suggests, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing accusations of hypocrisy for enacting a ban on minors attending drag shows while allowing children at nude beaches in the state. As we first reported here on Planet Nude back in March (and multiple times since), critics online (including media figures and independent journalists) have been escalating their rhetoric around nude beaches as a point of attack against DeSantis, questioning why the conservative governor permits state-funded nude beaches where naked adults and children can be present, while restricting children from attending private-funded shows with clothed performances. Newsweek frames this criticism as a potential weakness for DeSantis as he seeks the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential race.
It’s worth pointing out that there are several inaccuracies in the article, not the least of which being that Florida does not have state-funded nude beaches. Nudity at Blind Creek Beach and Haulover Beach is based on statutory law, meaning that there are specific laws that allow for nudity in those areas. Similarly, at Canaveral National Seashore, the absence of federal law explicitly prohibiting nudity allows for its practice. Nude beaches are currently not permitted on state-owned land due to an administrative rule enforced by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). However, there are efforts by organizations to advocate for a change in this rule. One, The B.E.A.C.H.E.S. Foundation Institute, is currently engaged in a lawsuit against the department to change the rule.
What’s very alarming here is the way these attacks have consistently attempted to throw nude beaches and nudists under the bus to score cheap political points against DeSantis. Recent tweets from popular media figures on twitter echoing these attacks have attracted millions of impressions. In the hostile political and cultural climate around drag shows, this is like playing with matches near a gas can. Should Trump latch onto this messaging to try and damage DeSantis, it could ignite a whole other media storm. Or should one of these news outlets, looking to score a click-generating headline, decides some of the wholesome (and historic) nudist kids camp programs which exist in various naturist resorts like Cedar Trails or Sunsport Gardens are worthy of fomenting more blind hostility over, nudist organizations may have to scramble to respond publicly.
Unfortunately, organizations have very little control over the narrative here, and wariness over the potential to accidentally make the problem worse encourages them, more often than not, to do nothing and wait for the problem to blow over. However, as we’ve been reporting on this problem for several months now, it seems instead to be getting worse.
One of the most frustrating aspects of this situation is the unnecessary conflict it creates between nudists and drag shows/performers.
By drawing contrast to drag, this tweet from Cypress Cove in response to the Jon Cooper tweet above—seemingly a well-meaning attempt to defend nudists—implicitly suggests that drag is a sexual practice (it is not). As a result, it not only fails to effectively defend nudists but sort of undermines the efforts of both communities. Of course nudism and drag are not the same, but that doesn’t do anything to refute the critics who would like to see both banned.
Instead, we should stand united with drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community and assert that both nudism and drag are legitimate forms of expression and deserve protection against any form of discriminatory persecution. For nudist individuals and groups looking to respond to the unfair correlation by the media, a far more effective line of messaging looks like this, in my view:
If there’s anything to take away from all of this, it’s that we must find a way to battle the moralistic forces of repression without denigrating others who are also the targets of this repression. We are stronger together than we are apart. 🚀
In case you missed it:
Nasarawa women’s naked protest targets political injustice
The article discusses the recent naked protest by women in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, as a bold act of defiance against political injustice. The protest was sparked by alleged controversies in the governorship elections and the ongoing leadership tussle in the state House of Assembly. The women stripped down to draw attention to the corruption and manipulation they perceive in the political system, aiming to expose the truth and demand justice. The protest has sparked a national debate, with opinions divided on its effectiveness and significance. Nevertheless, it has mobilized civil society organizations and activists, leading to a broader movement for societal change and the demand for accountability among public officials.
The article provides an insightful perspective on the Nasarawa women's naked protest, highlighting the courage and resilience of the participants in confronting political injustices. It acknowledges the divided opinions surrounding the protest while emphasizing the transformative impact it has had in mobilizing support for change. The article commendably highlights the need for unity in demanding a more just and equitable society. Additionally, credit is given to the women for their bravery and the broader impact of their actions. It is inspiring to see grassroots movements emerge and initiatives aimed at empowering citizens and fostering accountability among public officials. 🚀
Also in ‘nude protest’:
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Police issue warning over sunbathing naked in your own garden
Police have issued a warning that individuals could be arrested for sunbathing naked in their own gardens if their actions are deemed to cause harassment, alarm, or distress. While public nudity is not illegal and one can expect privacy in their own garden, the intention to cause discomfort can lead to charges under Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The Crown Prosecution Service emphasized the need to balance the naturist's right to freedom of expression with the public's right to be protected from distress. Police advise informing neighbors about sunbathing plans and finding a secluded area in the garden. British Naturism (our heroes in this story) states there is no legal obligation to inform neighbors, but being considerate is encouraged. 🚀
Brits urged to ditch trunks for mass skinny dipping events during 30C heatwave
Naturism enthusiasts in the UK are encouraging people to participate in mass skinny dipping events to beat the heat and promote mental health and body positivity. The Great British Skinny Dip campaign, organized by British Naturism, aims to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation through nude swimming events held across the country. With a 40% increase in club memberships, naturists hope to set a record by hosting 200 skinny dips this summer. The events, which have gained popularity since lockdown, offer a sense of freedom and enjoyment while promoting mental well-being. Participants are encouraged to embrace nudity and experience the benefits of being in the nude.
The UK and British Naturism are doing it right, changing perceptions, challenging unjust ordinances, and influencing the dialogue in the media every single week. I’m so proud to be an American member and only lament that I am never able to join in all the amazing things that are happening abroad. 🚀
In case you missed it:
No sex on the beach, please: Dutch town tells nude sunbathers to put a lid on lust
Veere municipality in the Netherlands has launched a campaign to discourage sexual activities on nude beaches. The local authority erected warning signs to inform visitors that the dunes are off-limits and public sex is banned. The initiative, called "Project Oranjezon," was initiated due to complaints about sexual acts conducted by naked beachgoers. The campaign aims to protect the natural environment and ensure public order and safety. While some support the action, others argue against prudishness and advocate for maintaining the distinction between nude recreation and sexual activity. The enforcement will include immediate verbal intervention, and information boards have been installed to reinforce the message.
It's not prudishness to suggest that illegal activity doesn't belong on a naturist beach merely because nudity is accepted. Sexual activity and other illicit behaviors threaten nude beaches in a number of ways, not the least of which is that it attracts undue scrutiny on naturists. Unfortunately, our next article on the same issue gets this very wrong:
Prudish Nation Puts Limits On Nude Beach Sex Stuff Which Is The Entire Point of Nude Beaches
Addressing the news about the Veere’s campaign to limit sex on nude beaches (above), the author expresses frustration with the restrictions, criticizing the perceived prudishness and moral judgments behind them. Using juvenile rhetoric, they argue that the essence of nude beaches is the freedom to engage in sexual activities and lament the limitations imposed on these spaces.
Obviously, the author is not a naturist, and they completely miss the purpose and point of nude beaches. This take is just pure ignorance, and represents a biased and uninformed opinion that does not accurately reflect the principles and intentions of the naturist community. 🚀
Topless Trans Woman at White House Pride Event Sparks Outrage
There was a media flurry around an event last week involving Rose Montoya, a transgender model and activist. Montoya attended a Pride event hosted by the White House and shared a video on Instagram that included a brief topless moment. While some viewed her act as empowering and bold, many conservative commentators and critics condemned her actions as disrespectful and inappropriate. Misgendering her and using anti-trans slurs, they sought to delegitimize her expression of self.
While I would never have expected it to be embraced by the White House, who was pretty quick to condemn the action and ban Rose Montoya from ever visiting again, her decision to go topless at the White House event can be seen as an assertion of her identity and an act of self-expression, and in that regard, I think it’s a bold expression of pride. It challenges norms and calls attention to the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Unfortunately, in a time when anti-transgender sentiment is on the rise and legislation targeting LGBTQ+ rights is being introduced, Montoya's act of visibility becomes a double-edged sword. While it can be seen as a bold statement, it also risks amplifying negative backlash and reinforcing stereotypes.
Montoya has since issued an apology for the act, saying, "I alongside other powerful voices in the queer and trans communities were invited to be represented, seen and heard in a unique and very special way… In a quick moment of fleeting and overwhelming trans joy, I decided to do something unbecoming of a guest of the president."
Unbecoming, perhaps, but who did it harm? 🚀
Naked woman appears on GMB to debate nude sunbathing: ‘It’s just a body’
Helen Berriman, a prominent advocate for British Naturism (often alongside her husband Simon Berriman), made an appearance on Good Morning Britain to advocate for nude sunbathing and challenge the sexualization of naked bodies. Berriman argued that people are conditioned to perceive nudity as sexual and questioned the need for concern over a nude body sunbathing in a secluded area of a park. Her appearance on the show sparked a storm of media reports across numerous outlets.
British Naturism has been successful in garnering major media attention for their work and events in recent years, and their mission to challenge the taboos and stigma surrounding nudity has gained significant visibility through high-profile appearances like Helen Berriman's on Good Morning Britain. Their approach has generated media coverage and can serve as a valuable example for American organizations looking to take a more proactive approach to public relations to raise awareness and attract new members. 🚀
Did you see this story? What did you think?
Meet Rehana Fathima, the activist who won 'nudity’ case in Kerala high court
Rehana Fathima, a Kerala-based activist
Rehana Fathima, an activist from Kerala, India, was acquitted by the Kerala High Court in a case where she faced charges for allowing her minor children to paint on her partially nude body. The court recognized that a woman's decision over her own body is a fundamental right to equality and privacy. Fathima has been involved in various social movements, including participating in protests against moral policing and challenging gender norms. This judgment is significant for proponents of top free equality as it challenges societal double standards regarding the sexualization of the female body and emphasizes that nudity should not be automatically considered obscene or indecent. Many kudos to Rehana Fathima for her bravery and brilliance. 🚀
Nudists aren’t trailblazers, they’re just annoying exhibitionists
In this opinion piece, Judith Woods criticizes the behavior of Richard Collins, a member of British Naturism, who was briefly arrested for sitting naked on a bench in Hastings. Woods finds Collins' actions irritating and accuses him of being pompous and arrogant. She offensively equates his naturism as exhibitionism, calling it a form of antisocial behavior disguised as a quest for body positivity and freedom. Woods aligns herself with societal norms and propriety, stating that it is not her place or anyone else's to justify Collins' nudity. She also questions the use of police resources in responding to the incident, suggesting that it causes alarm and distress to taxpayers.
Of course, Richard Collins was acting within his rights. According to the College of Policing guidelines, public nudity is only considered an offense if it intends to cause alarm or distress. Collins, as a member of British Naturism, was engaged in a lawful activity and sought to challenge societal norms around body shame. The fact that Sussex Police de-arrested him and confirmed that no offenses were committed supports the legitimacy of his actions, and certainly Collins would agree that it was an overall waste of police time and taxpayer money. It’s unfortunate that Judith Woods is so uncomfortable with Collins’ rights. Unfortunately, there's no path to normalizing nudity in society in which some do not become offended, just as no omelet leaves unbroken eggs (vegan omelets have been excluded for idiomatic integrity). 🚀
Did you see this story? What did you think?
‘We’ll go nude when we want’, say Men’s Pond sun-bathers
Swimmers at the Hampstead Heath Men's Pond in London are protesting against a new ban on naked sunbathing. The City of London, which manages the Heath, recently erected signs prohibiting nudity, sparking outrage among regular swimmers. The ban comes after the removal of a partition that divided the changing area, leading to a rise in complaints about nudity. Swimmers argue that nude sunbathing has been a long-standing tradition at the pond, and they are vowing to continue stripping despite the ban. Some are planning a "slow strip" protest to demonstrate their opposition to the decision. Personally, I appreciate any creative attempt at conscientious objection and support the efforts of the group to transgress the new policies. Whatever a “slow strip” is, I have to assume it’s at least a little bit silly and absurdist, in keeping with British style.
The City of London has yet to make a final decision on what will be allowed once access improvements are completed, but swimmers feel that the process has been poorly handled and their views disregarded. 🚀
Furries Now Have Serious Beef With Ron DeSantis
The Megaplex convention, a gathering for furries in Florida, has announced that it will ban minors from attending due to the passage of a new law by Governor Ron DeSantis. The law prohibits the admission of children to adult live performances, raising concerns within the furry community. While furries encompass a diverse range of interests and not all aspects are sexual, misconceptions and stereotypes persist. The decision to exclude minors from the convention is seen as an attack on LGBTQ rights, as the furry community has a strong LGBTQ presence and is often associated with marginalized groups.
This development in the furry community mirrors the concerns of nudists in Florida, who also fear having to exclude minors from nudist spaces due to similar legislation. Nudist groups in the state have been debating the potential consequences of laws that might restrict children from attending events or venues that involve nudity, as some of these laws are written broadly enough to include even educational presentations under the umbrella of “performance”. The targeting of alternative groups and subcultures such as drag queens and furries and nudists by cultural crackdowns and restrictive legislation is alarming. It is important to stand in solidarity with these communities and condemn attempts to stifle their expression and identity. 🚀
Related:
“He’s Wearing A Shirt That Shows Nudity”: Mom Maliciously Complies With Her Son’s School Dress Code After He’s Sent Home
A mother recently shared a story on the Malicious Compliance subreddit, exposing the absurdity of school dress codes and their tendency to unfairly target students. Her son was sent home for wearing a shirt featuring an image of a shirtless Bruce Lee, which was deemed to display "nudity." Instead of simply accepting the punishment, the mother decided to cleverly respond. She transformed the shirt into an art project by attaching a bikini top to Bruce Lee's image for her son to continue wearing to school, effectively satirizing the school's prudishness.
By using humor to highlight the ridiculousness of the dress code policy, the mother successfully exposed the school's unfair treatment. The incident garnered media attention, sparking conversations about the necessity and fairness of dress codes in educational institutions. The story resonated with many readers who applauded the mother's creativity and shared their own experiences with dress code violations. 🚀
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Georgia officials really want people to stop being nude in their driver's license photos
Georgia officials have issued a plea for people to put on clothes before taking their driver's license photos, especially for digital identity cards. The Georgia Department of Driver Services made a Facebook post urging individuals to remember to appear fully clothed in their submitted pictures. The department emphasized the importance of maintaining a classy image in the digital era and included a meme featuring astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. While some commenters questioned the necessity of the reminder and the reality of nude photo submissions, the DDS responded in a lighthearted manner, confirming the seriousness of the matter with humorous GIFs. This plea reflects the desire for appropriateness and adherence to social norms when capturing official identification photos. Personally, I find this type of conscientious objection to be the most pleasing. Screw societal norms. If anyone here is reading this in Georgia with an expired ID, I hope you’ll consider it your duty to go nude in your next ID pic. 🚀
N.Y.C. Mayor Signs Ordinance Outlawing Discrimination Based on Body Size — Including Weight, Height
New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed an ordinance outlawing discrimination based on body size, including weight and height. The law aims to ensure equal access to employment, housing, and public accommodation, regardless of appearance. The legislation will become effective on November 22, and it excludes cases where a person's height or weight prevents them from fulfilling job requirements. While proponents of body freedom welcome this as a positive step towards creating inclusive environments and combating discrimination, critics argue that the potential impact and costs of the law have not been fully considered. Nonetheless, this ordinance reflects a growing recognition of the importance of non-discrimination and equal treatment based on body size. It sets an example for other cities and states, showing that discrimination based on body size is wrong and can be changed. The law's implications for proponents of body freedom are significant, as it reinforces the principles of body freedom and challenges societal norms and biases related to body size, promoting greater acceptance and equality for all individuals. I know there’s no nudity in this story, but I still see it as something that advocates for body freedom should celebrate. 🚀
“Laundry Day, Huh?” - Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom’s Hyrule Embraces Link’s Nudist Lifestyle
Nudist gamers will enjoy the Easter egg that some fans have discovered in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The game developers added a clever twist by including new dialogue for non-playable characters (NPCs) when they encounter a partially unclothed Link. Although Link isn't completely naked, players can remove all but his underwear, leading to amusing reactions from the NPCs. This feature explores how different cultures within the game's world, Hyrule, react to nudity. The Gorons, who are known for their minimal clothing, appreciate Link's freedom and cheer him on, while the Gerudo are rather offended by his choice of attire. This playful inclusion sheds light on real-life cultural differences and adds an extra layer of fun for players seeking a laugh. 🚀
Topless sunbather told to cover up and act her age by park employee at Lower Mainland lake
A topless sunbather at a provincial park in Maple Ridge, Canada, was told to cover up by a park employee. The woman, Sue Ashley, asserted her legal right to be topless and refused to comply. After contacting park management, an apology was issued by the park's operating manager, acknowledging the employee's inappropriate remarks. Ashley plans to continue sunbathing topless and hopes to raise awareness about women's rights and challenge the sexualization of women's bodies.
A reminder of the the importance of knowing your rights so that you can stand up for them if challenged. By asserting herself, Ashley doesn’t just make things better for her, but challenges assumptions and creates a more inclusive and respectful environment for others who want to enjoy the sun and air naturally. The most direct way to create large scale change in the perceptions of nudity is for everyone to research and practice their legal rights to be nude when and where they can. 🚀
Where have all the nudists and their beaches gone in Kamloops, Okanagan?
Another story from the Great White North.
The article examines the apparent decline in nude beaches and nudist organizations in the Kamloops and Okanagan region. It highlights the history of Cedar Creek Beach in Kelowna, which used to be a popular nude beach before it was redeveloped by the city in the early 2000s. The piece also discusses the disappearance of local nudist associations and their impact on the availability of nude-friendly locations. It emphasizes the limited online information about nudist beaches in the region and the need for continued efforts to promote body positivity and acceptance of naturism.
This is a problem that seems to be occurring all over the continent, but is apparently quite evident in the Kamloops and Okanagan region of Canada. 🚀
'The police seem to think there are two kinds of naked'
In a letter to the editor, Matthew Laverack expresses his frustration with the police's response to a recent incident of indecent exposure in Norton, York. He questions the police's reassurance to the public, pointing out the contrast between their actions in facilitating a naked protest group during the York Naked Bike Ride and their arrest of an individual for exposing themselves. Laverack criticizes the police for not considering the potential impact on families and suggests that their response is absurd and reminiscent of a Monty Python sketch. Another reader, DM Deamer, mocks the situation, highlighting the perceived disparity in treatment between someone exposing themselves in Norton and the police escort and celebration that the Naked Bike Ride participants received in York.
For most of us, it’s not too difficult to differentiate between planned, nonsexual nude events such as the York Naked Bike Ride—where participants engage in a peaceful protest and promote body positivity—and an individual committing lewd exposure. The former is a consensual and organized gathering that aims to raise awareness and challenge societal norms surrounding nudity, often with the cooperation of local authorities. The latter involves non-consensual exposure and is considered indecent and offensive behavior. It is disheartening to witness the writer's inability to distinguish between these two distinct situations and his failure to understand the nuances surrounding public nudity and indecent exposure. 🚀
I think you will agree from this selection of stories that social progress is a series of steps and missteps. Sometimes ground is lost. Sometimes ground is won. Our best hope is a trend toward the latter (too much to hope for a ladder).
The only way to avoid obstacles on the path to progress is to follow the words of the great guitarist Bobby Parker…
That’s a wrap on this month’s News of the Nude. We would love to hear your thoughts or takeaways in the comments. Give us a shout! 🪐
“According to the College of [British] Policing guidelines, public nudity is only considered an offense if it intends to cause alarm or distress.”
Something I find interesting is how British and American laws regarding public indecency are worded very similarly but interpreted very differently. In the US, most states define public indecency as something to the effect of “exposing one’s [genitals, nether regions, breasts, buttocks, or whatnot] under circumstances likely to cause affront or alarm.”
British authorities interpret the law such that non-sexual nudity is generally allowed while their American counterparts interpret the same language to generally prohibit any and all nudity unless it occurs in a place where nudity is not unexpected, such as locker rooms or doctors offices. The number of places in America where nudity is not unexpected is declining rapidly.
Evan: this is such a great collection of news articles, and your writing style is so enjoyable. Keep up the great work! Upgrading to paid....