When viewing images from the past, especially the ones of family and friends, the sharing of the event or the occasion for the picture is often as entertaining as the photo itself. Laughter and memories are compatible and fun – particularly when recalled among those we love and respect! The good times are always happy and pleasant when shared!
From the early 1950s!
There are a countless number of pictures – forgotten then found, lost then rediscovered and/or misplaced then reclaimed that are available with secrets waiting to be revealed. The images ignite our curiosity and fuel our imagination; unfortunately, the story – the truth – is not a reality that we know. The chances of us ever knowing the identities, the situations and the stories decline every year that passes by. However, that doesn’t reduce the impact the pictures create!
Sharing a kiss, late 1940s!
Yet as unknown as these photographs may be, they all have a story to share. A myth to erase, a fact to prove. In there very own way, every surviving image from the past is a seed for the tree of “what-is-real!” Maybe not as blatant and obvious as the two men above, but still important and valid in their own way!
Together post-World War II!
Subtle comfort with smiles and cautious contact. Learning to have confidence and trust in one another in a world that doesn’t always welcome familiarity and friendliness. For the subjects captured in these photographs contained with this posting their identities and, sadly, their personal stories are no longer available to us. However, these images remain, and these glimpses present to us a tale of courage, of life, of perseverance and of hope.
Smiles, 1950s!
Despite the bias, hatred, ridicule and scorn these persons encountered, they managed to survive for another day. For a majority of them, that was an accomplishment worthy of note. They were judged based solely on their race – not ability, industry, knowledge, skills or talents. The colour of their skin determined their place in society.
A summer afternoon, early 1960s!
At a time when their attraction to others of the same gender was viewed as depraved, evil and unnatural, they managed to continue with life. Their discarding of clothing and other forms of artificial covering was seen as heathen and provocative, they overcame the marginalization and thrived.
The pretense of isolation did not deter them as they discovered that they were not alone in their attractions and desires. There were companions, friends and lovers who accepted them for exactly what and who they really were!
These photographs of actual people and what they represent become an important aspect of Black history in the USA. They are proof that lives and situations existed that too often were deemed inappropriate or irrelevant to the African-American experience. Yet the evidence still survives and somehow, the story gets told.
An historic mid-1960s kiss!
For years, the African-American community denied the very existence of a Black homosexual culture and a Black nudist culture. They were both seen as depraved and disgusting behaviours that had no place within the African-American experience. White people may act that way, and perhaps they had corrupted a few Blacks to behave that way, but that was it.
These pictures may not share with us the message originally intended. More than likely, we’ll never know that historical reality. But these pictures do convey to us the story that both nakedness and same gender love was both alive, real and a part of life for many African-Americans throughout history.
Our appreciation and recognition of the stories that these photographs relay to us remind us all that the roles that we have in telling our own stories. The quick look that we afford the future of our lives provides for them all a memory of what life was like “in our day!”
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 28, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! February, 2025!”
In an examination and exploration on the policies and practices of race and racism in the United States gay porn industry, The Pink News, a GLBTQ+ news service in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth, interviewed Race Cooper, a Canadian subject of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Race had worked several jobs at a gay porn studio, the last being as an actor which he retired from in 2014. In the interview, Mr. Cooper could not appear naked. He opted for appearing shirtless, as close to being nude as possible!
Theinterview was exceedingly popular. Curiosity concerning USA racism in the gay pornography business generated a sizeable audience! Race’s interview was informative and insightful!
While he was acting in films, Race Cooper posted online at Blogger.com. I honestly am unable to remember the exact title of the blog. I discovered the site shortly after he made his film debut in 2009. His blog became a personal favourite of mine and many other followers. Race had the distinct habit of keeping no secrets from his fans and followers, consistently posting of his experiences with his fellow actors, both flattering and…real!
His descriptions and observations of their intimate abilities and their anatomical attributes made his blog a success for multitudes and a regular “must read” for not only his fans but his peers in the film industry as well!
Race was often reprimanded by studio executive for his blog as being “too revealing!” A typical Race answer: “Yes! I reveal! You pay me to be naked! You expect me to reveal! That’s why I sell movies. People by the porn to watch me reveal!”
Race: animated interview subject!
Race’s writing skills hastened to dispel the stereotype of the gay porn actor as all effeminate, egotistical, “flakey” and self-obsessed. He wasted no time denying his preference for the “bottom” role and he openly and rigorously advocated for equality for Black gay performers in pay, ratings and in roles offered!
Background:
The topic of “race” extends beyond the limited concepts of just Black people and White people. It includes all of us, no matter our skin tone, ethnicity or racial heritage. Race, unfortunately, is also aligned with community, culture, politics, religion and value systems, and beyond!
Regrettably, racism (discrimination and/or hatred) is often a “learned” (taught) behaviour – usually passed down from one generation to the next – without any basis of proof or scientific fact. Unchallenged, it is frequently misunderstood as the “norm” – the routine standard.
ReNude Pride published a post entry here, Race On Race, two years ago on 6 March, 2023. Click the title to link. My spouse, Aaron, and I both offer this expanded version of that posting in the hope of overcoming our need to be reminded of the importance of this reality into our lives. For this reason, ReNude Pride does not restrict the issue or topic of race exclusively to the period of Black History Month.
Race Cooper, casual!
Introduction:
“Race Cooper” is the stage name – performance name – (pseudonym) of Joseph Ross Anderson, a talented and thoughtful star of same gender loving (SGL) – bisexual or gay – pornography and outspoken advocate for bare (naked/nudist) rights, sexuality rights and racial equality. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on 5 December, 1973.
Amazing, he didn’t begin his film career (porn) until 2009 – he was 36 years old! An age when many openly gay porn actors are considering retiring from performing live! In the same year that he launched his film performing, he began blogging on blogger.com about his newfound job as appearing in gay porn and his encounters with his fellow performers. He very quickly acquired notoriety as “a-man-who-tells-it-all!”
He also became a very spirited advocate for the expansion of the gay sexual identities to encourage the acceptance of versatility (both alpha and beta) as an option. This was especially relevant as actors were often limited in the roles they were offered professionally because of sexual labelling.
Additional realities of Race Cooper are summarized below:
Race gives a fellow a kiss!
Race Cooper
Birthname: Joseph Ross Anderson
Birthdate: 5 December, 1973
Birthplace: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Height: 6 ‘ (183 cm)
Weight: 180 lbs (82 kg)
Hair: Head: shaved
Body: armpit, pubic, natural
Sexuality: Gay
Sexual position: Versatile (preference: beta)
Clothing status: Bare
Porn acting career: 2009 – 2014
“I’m an African-Canadian. Growing up in Toronto, I got to see how lots of White Americans reacted to Black people. Working in gay pornography in the USA, I personally saw how Black men were treated by White men with no difference between gay or straight.” ~ Race Cooper ~ Pink News Interview
Race Cooper, based on his personal experience in the SGL pornography industry, views racism as “a daily constant in the USA.” He initially began working as a casting director for the exclusively SGL studio – Raging Stallion – before he moved to performing in front of the camera lens. He readily acknowledges that he was paid considerably less than his White peers and regularly and repeatedly had his work ethic and intelligence questioned by executives – all White. He honestly believes that he was only hired initially in order for the studio to appear “less racist.”
Race: film star!
“Homophobia and racism in the USA is the reasoning for discrimination and prejudice. It is part of the legacy of slavery. In Canada, race is just a difference. You shave your pubic hair, I let mine grow naturally. We’re both gay men, we’re just different in some ways.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News
Author’s Notation: Another aspect that both my spouse, Aaron, and I have in common with today’s interview subject, the talented Race Cooper is our appreciation of body hair, abundant (profuse) or sparse. In the above quote, Race references his keeping his pubic hair natural. Gay men have the option to either remove retain their body hair. It is their decision. We just prefer to let it all grow!
Canada had slavery in the 1600s only. It was never a permanent institution like in the USA. As a slave, you were bought, you worked a couple of years, earned your freedom, and then you moved on. Like an indentured servant. Enslavement was never a source of distrust and hatred. You worked, earned freedom, and then became a neighbor – equal – not inferior or subservient.
“As a Black gay man, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred, and prejudice because of nudity, race and sexual orientation. It is unfair and unjust. It is wrong. As a performer in the gay porn industry, I’ve never experienced criticism for being publicly or for being socially naked. But I do know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their nudity. Clothes freedom is part of who we are. Just like race and sexuality, we don’t have a choice.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News Interview
The interview with The Pink News Service was conducted as part of an investigation on racial inequality in the USA gay porn industry in conjunction with the killing of the late George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. Although a Canadian subject, his years involved in the gay porn career and living in San Francisco, California, USA, provided Race with both foresight and history.
He also wants the gay porn industry to openly admit that many White men – straight (heterosexual) – have been cast into roles designed for SGL African-American men with no regard as to the impact on gay Black actors.
Race on race!
As a path forward, Race advocates the studios hire “diversity mentors” to help with casting concerns and issues as well as advance the careers of porn actors of colour. He also pursues for the ending of the “gay-for-pay” policy of movie studios and for the immediate cessation of the policy that allows studios to terminate the careers of HIV+ actors.
In the conclusion of his interview with The Pink News, Race offered – in my own humble opinion – his most daring and profound argument against bigotry, discrimination and judgment based not only just upon race but sexuality and nudity as well. This statement was made on his own initiative and observation and not in response to a specific question.
“I’ve made numerous naked appearances at gay studio event socials. The newcomers to our profession are often intimidated by us who’ve been around. Usually, fellow Black actors are gathered, made to strip out of their apparel and to parade through the White guests who are fully or partially clothed only to be ridiculed, teased and tormented and not allowed to get dressed until the social is done.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News Interview
Race Cooper: contemplating!
Joseph Ross Anderson (a.k.a. Race Cooper) has undeniable and unique experiences that qualify his assessments and observations on the existence of racial practices and stereotyping within the gay pornography profession. It is important to note that these judgmental instances are not restricted solely to the gay porn business. They occur frequently and regularly throughout the USA in both personal and professional circumstances.
His perspectives on the effects of racism are determined not only from personal experience but also from shared observations with not only African-Americans but other Black Canadians. These reflect learned behaviours that are repeated, without thought, endlessly with little or no consequence. The sad reality is that these occasions of discrimination and marginalization happen not only against Black people but against others of a differing heritage than White Americans.
Will the effects and energies of Race Cooper have any impact on the tolerance of racism in the growing gay porn industry? One positive result is that the actions are now bringing closer media attention to the matter. That publicity is not going to disappear or evaporate overnight. Studio executives and their investors are “less” than pleased when revenue is affected and negative focus is generated.
The levels of consciousness raised when issues of racial impropriety are addressed benefit not only African-American performers but also others of varying racial, ethnic and social abilities. The fact that inequality was applicable in one instance justifies the question: “How many more suffered the same?”
Not a consideration studio executives want pursued!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 24, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Stories!”
It isn’t just “wishful thinking!” It is more than simply a thought that repeats itself day after day, with no end in sight! It is a recurring dream that happens about this time of the year, every year! We’re tired of the dregs of winter – the barren wasteland of dirty snow, a desolate landscape and frigid air! The need for a change of scenery and outdoor air temperature is upon us. Then, it happens! A dream of happiness and hope enters into our sleep one night and reminds us all that dreams are real!
Let’s face the facts: St. Valentine’s Day has happened – it is now part of our past! The month of February is now more than half over, the month of March is now fast approaching and along with it – the first day of spring, 2025! The bleak season of winter is about to fade away forever. There is now happiness and hope on the horizon!
Race to the waves!
Of course, we all know that the seasonal transformation won’t occur overnight. We still have a few more weeks of winter to endure and then the transition from winter into spring slowly begins to happen. Yet, that dream has happened! The dream that reminds us all that reality is upon us and that a bright future is returning to us! Take a deep breath and relax!
First arrival, the biggest splash!
There are many characteristics of dreams that provide us all both benefits and resources in surviving and thriving over the final challenges of the winter. Our memories of the fun, the successes and the thrills of the past enable us to overcome any obstacles that present themselves.
Beach fun with friends!
As bare practitioners, we have the camaraderie and the fellowship of our community and our culture to enhance and reward our social expectations and to offer support in future endeavours. We are very accomplished in the dream-world category!
Removing!
One of the awesome and prominent features of the dream, at least in my version, is the adventure of stripping off/removal of the shorts or the swimsuit. The eliminating of this layer of covering is equal to the total freedom of clothing! Achieving our bare practitioner status is identical to engaging in that liberation with others!
“baring the buttocks!”
The actual “baring of the buttocks” – the moment of relief, release and satisfaction – is the amazing and inspiring climax of the dream for everyone. The fulfillment of our survival of winter itself!
Confusion!
Despite the uncertain times that we are now experiencing – especially the recent political changes with the maga-soiled diaper – full of excrement – now sitting in the Oval Office at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue – the dream will happen! It may not be ideal and it may not be perfect, but it will happen and that maga-odor that contaminates the White House will be eliminated! We just need to remember, this dream is real!
Fun and happiness for all!
The dream has happened! The sandy seed has been planted in the beach of our upcoming summer! Yes, there may be storms along the way as they are a part of nature. We survived the electoral holocaust of 2024 and we survived the winter of 2025. A few more weeks of winter isn’t everlasting! The dream will bring spring our way!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 21, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Race Forward: Race on Race!”
I honestly and sincerely acknowledge that until Aaron, my spouse, entered into my life back at the end of May, 2010, the entire St. Valentine’s Day production and performance never rated special attention from me. While growing up, my mother (a woman with one husband and eight sons) received all of our attention on this day. She deserved it!
“I love you!” manually in American Sign Language (ASL)!
Our man (above) is manually (by hand) making the American Sign Language (ASL) sign for the words: “I love you!” A very appropriate message to convey on St. Valentine’s Day. He’s also decorated his chest by body-painting the ASL manual sign on himself – emphasis on communication of the sentiment! In conversing using any signed language, it is important to remember to keep eye-to-eye contact with the person you are addressing and the signs are made with the palms facing the person you are communicating.
Heart = Valentine!
The above man has both of his hands creating the shape – a sign – for heart. An almost internationally recognized sign for Valentine – indicating the occasion (today): St. Valentine’s Day! There is no internationally understood manual (signed) language, although there are some signs identical in multiple languages.
This is the first time I have placed a priority on Deaf communication techniques on this site. It does make me feel good to put significance on an often overlooked communication method!
St. Valentine’s Day delivery!
This heart-shaped box of sweet candy really requires no explanation for purpose or for date awarded! That much is obvious to us all! Happy St. Valentine’s Day everyone!
A bromantic kiss to celebrate!
An action that is always appropriate in honour of St. Valentine’s Day! Race Cooper (left), who will be featured here again next week, gives his man a passionate reward!
Interracial bromance!
“Two men together and in love. Ain’t that bromantic?” ~ Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ 28 March, 2022
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 17, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Photo-Essay: A Dream!”
Up until this post entry here on ReNude Pride, our encouragement has been to continue posing alone. The purpose of this recommendation/suggestion was to gain and increase awareness of a) what an individual is able to accomplish in front of a camera lens and b) what poses (angles, locations, positions, etc.) look and work best for oneself, personally. It also increases our experience being the actual subject in a photograph.
Online time simultaneously!
Now, it is reasonable to assume we have someone special (close friend, bromantic interest, partner, etc.) that we trust explicitly and confide this project and our involvement and… our selfies! If there is perhaps an additional friend to include, that increases the chance for “fun” and success of this phase of the project. Remember the adage: “the more, the merrier?” Those words prove to be accurate and true!
My friends, Kalvin (left) and Darren (right)!
Myself and Kalvin posing!
My friends, Darren and Kalvin, join with me in posing while Aaron, my spouse, operates the camera. All of us posing and with a camera potentially leads to trouble! Selfie images remain appropriate, so a separate photographer isn’t an absolute essential but it is a beneficial option and resource. That person can either be the photographer or join in with all for posing! One thought of advice, keep the number of persons involved in the project manageable. Too many participating and the focus and purpose become obscured!
The increasing of at least one additional person affords us a larger range of considerations and ideas for activities to engage and a selection of poses. It presents an opportunity for us to interact and to react and to lose the “statue” effect that solo posing sometimes conveys.
An outdoor mixed message!
Advice: Inviting others to join with us in posing does present us with the need for a careful review of our pictures. Some poses may be misinterpreted as being more provocative or more suggestive than others. This caution advice is offered to eliminate a potentially embarrassing moment! Better safe now than sorry later!
The bottoms-up! poses, shown above and below, illustrate the advice caution offered in the previous paragraph. For some, the above picture implies or hints of a possible intimate (sexual) interaction whereas the image below this paragraph is of buttocks in a more casual and neutral pose depicting simply buttocks!
Buttocks: an urban view!
For many persons, professional models to amateurs who are adjusting to posing bare (such as we are doing here), posing one’s buttocks is less stressful than facing the camera lens directly. Buttocks are a common anatomical feature for both genders although they do vary from person to person. The majority of people are basically comfortable posing their buttocks rather than their personal genitalia.
Our spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington!
ReNude Pride’s very own celebrity unofficial official spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, shares with us an observation on posing bare. A reminder that Phoenix is not quoted here attempting to recruit future porn performers,he is offering insightful inspiration on the advantages of posing bare!
“Posing naked is an ideal way to strengthen your body self-image and to impress others with your confidence and poise.” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ openly gay pornography actor ReNude Pride spokes-model
Hands joining them together!
The trio pictured here have no problems with being photographed with others of different ethnicities/races nor are they uncomfortable revealing their genitalia on camera. Even today, in the 21st century, there remain persons who have issues with those conditions. It is unfortunately more common than one would expect.
A person’s body language can and often does convey messages to viewers. In the trio, their hands join them together and all three have jovial smiles on their faces. The information shared may or may not be understood by the individuals posing. Many times, a person with a prejudice against another fails to recognize this aspect about themselves. Awareness of this trait in others helps us to prepare for any situation that may arise.
Anticipating potential concerns when inviting others to participate in posing projects enables us to have different options available as possible solutions.
Engrossed in reading!
The sibling duo above are too “busy” or engrossed in their reading. Their being naked becomes a secondary consideration for them both and to those looking at the picture. The primary thought for many is: “What is so important/interesting?” Again, the action shown (reading) detracts from the plainly visible nudity. An item as simple as a book attracts and captures the attention of others!
The more common, everyday and routine nude posing becomes, the less sensational it seems to be. It begins to lose the uniqueness many want to award it!
Author’s Notation: There may be a “Posing Bare: Part 4” supplement posting. I have a draft for the posting I just need more possible content.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 14, 2025,and the proposed topic is: “Cupidity!”
As we entered into the 21st century, alarming, distressing, and potentially fatal statistics continued to confront us all as the HIV/AIDS epidemic grew in both intensity and number globally. Here in the USA, African-Americans constituted slightly over 14% of the total population, yet they represented almost 50% of all categories in HIV/AIDS-related statistics reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The disproportionate impact indicated an approaching catastrophic outcome.
The first two decades of the HIV/AIDS crisis, in addition to the ignorance and neglect of then-president, Ronald Reagan, was likewise ignored and condemned by African-Americans as well. The blame and cause of the disease was the “white homosexuals and their sinful ways!” At long last, Black Americans were able to point their fingers at the White community and condemn them for “inventing” a disease that was fatal.
By this time, it was evident to all – health professionals, legislators and in particular, the American public – that more decisive, effective and resourceful actions and measures were needed to combat the alarming rates of infection with HIV/AIDS.
In 1999, concerns and fear over the effects of the disease on the Black American population led the CDC, the US Public Health Service, executive representatives of nationwide organizations serving African-Americans and communities of faith met to address issues with the rising infection conditions. One of the results of these meetings was the decision to observe February 7, annually, as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD).
With excitement, athletic and celebrity endorsements, fanfare and media attention, the very first NBHAAD was held from coast-to-coast on February 7, 2000.
Subtle manner!
HIV Infection:
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, is transmitted (spread) from one person to another through contact with one or more of four (4) human body fluids. These four fluids are: blood, semen, vaginal fluid breast milk. Other body fluids such as tears, saliva, mucus (congestion), urine do not spread HIV. Remember the four: blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk. Avoid all contact with those four body fluids.
Any contact with one or more of these body fluids contact your local health department immediately for treatment! The earlier treatment begins, the greater chances are for success.
Latex, a synthetic material, has been proven repeatedly to significantly reduce (lower) the risk of HIV infection. Latex is used to make condoms and gloves because it prevents the exchange of bodily fluids. The latex product must be intact – no puncture or tear. Dispose (throw away) latex products in a marked biohazard container.
The important message!
Testing:
A simple blood test can determine if a person is infected with HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). Persons are encouraged to get tested for HIV regularly. In the USA, test results are supposed to be confidential (private) even though the data is reported to the health department for statistical purposes.
When test results are given, information is also provided on services available and possible treatment options. Counseling is also offered.
Major challenge:
Despite all of the advances in HIV testing, counseling treatment options and massive HIV/AIDS public education/treatment efforts, it remains estimated that almost 25% (one quarter) of persons who are infected with HIV (HIV+) are honestly unaware of their personal HIV status. They have not been tested. This factor represents not only a failure of education and outreach efforts nationwide, but also the serious potential for a major health crisis. Get tested! Know your status!
Knowledge is power!
Key components:
NBHAAD guidelines mandate four (4) key components that must be present in order for an awareness campaign to be considered a success. Each component is designed to build individual and community strengths in combatting HIV/AIDS. The four essential elements are:
Get educated: Know and learn the facts about transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Get involved: Explore opportunities available in individual and community prevention efforts.
Get tested: Know your HIV status and encourage/empower others to do the same.
Get treated: Receive proper healthcare and support needed to successfully live as HIV+.
Analysis proves that people learn and retain knowledge most effectively from people they perceive as most like themselves. NBHAAD is an African-American based to provide direction, guidance and implementation to the Black population specifically. It represents a resource that is both accessible, authentic and dependable.
Elimination of the unknown!
Knowledge is power:
The more that we know, the better we become in enjoying not only good health but also successful living. NBHAAD and sponsored programs increase the amount of knowledge within a community and the opportunities for discussions concerning issues surrounding HIV/AIDS that individuals may face. It helps to create an environment where the virus that causes AIDS is a comfortable topic without fear of judgment.
Recently, the coronavirus COVID-19 and variants have received attention in health circles that have surpassed the attention focused on HIV/AIDS. Both infections need our attention and because HIV/AIDS has been with us longer, it still is prevalent and warrants action and continued education. Our health deserves all the attention we can offer to it!
Endorsements:
Kory Mitchell, cross on his lower left abdomen!
Now retired from his career in the gay porn industry, proud bare practitioner, Kory Mitchell, himself a certified American Red Cross prevention education instructor trainer (as myself) has visual tattoos to accentuate his status as HIV+ and in support of NBHAAD. We both collaborated on several HIV/AIDS prevention education projects for the Red Cross nationally. Early in his film career, Kory had “blessed” tattooed on his shoulder and a cross inked on his abdomen to remind his fans of his Christian faith.
“Blessed on his shoulder, “hope” on his neck!
Shortly after his diagnosis as HIV+ and just before his retirement, he had the word “hope” tattooed on his neck. Instead of the letter “o” in hope, he had a red HIV/AIDS awareness ribbon substituted instead. Very creative and imaginative, Kory!
Phoenix Fellington, bare, smiling and on the right!
Phoenix Fellington, as documented in the previous post entry here on Monday, 3 February, 2025, “Bare Is Real!” We are truly fortunate to offer his reasoning for being employed in the gay porn industry not once but twice in the same week! His message compliments NBHAAD!
“Why do I do gay porn? To teach men how to have sex. Responsibly and safely!” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ openly gay pornography actor, ReNude Pride spokes-model
Jason Collins, first openly gay NBA athlete, Brooklyn Nets!
Now retired NBA professional player, Jason Collins, formerly of the Brooklyn Nets. Jason was the very first NBA professional to “come out” as gay while still playing in the NBA. His sentiments here reflect prejudice, whether over a person’s sexuality or over their HIV status.
“Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it’s a good place to start.” ~ Jason Collins ~ openly gay NBA professional, Brooklyn Nets
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 10, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Posing Bare: Part 3!”
An ideal way to commemorate the start of the first full week of Black History Month, 2025, is with a post entry featuring the unofficial (unpaid) official (celebrity) spokes-model of ReNude Pride, Phoenix Fellington! The end of this first full week of Black History Month is on the actual date of the observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD), February 7. A week in tribute to our fellow bare practitioners of African descent! Who knows when an opportunity such as this aligns itself with perfection again? That’s the reason we’ll take full advantage of the situation!
A brief note on the header photograph of our site’s spokes-model (above). Our themes here on ReNude Pride are a) same gender love (SGL) and b) nakedness. Beyond any doubt, Phoenix meets and surpasses both themes without any explanation necessary! The reason his tongue is protruding? Aaron, my spouse, deemed it the “exact” image of Phoenix’s reaction upon learning, back in 2023, that he was now – unofficially – ReNude Pride’s official spokes-model! Indeed, there are some distinguishing honours that are just too fun and playful to ignore!
Phoenix poses bare and proud with fellow co-stars from Lucas films!
Background:
Aaron and I selected the widely popular gay porn star, Phoenix Fellington, as our site’s unofficial (not paid) official (chosen by us) spokes-model because of his successful celebrity status, his huge following within the same gender loving (SGL) population, and his fighting for rights against bias and prejudice against Black and gay porn-stars by Lucas Films and other studios in the gay porn industry. He’s also friendly, likeable and most importantly, he’d rather be without clothes as opposed to actually wearing them!
“I love being nude outside – all in the open!”
Phoenix Fellington, openly gay porn-star, ReNude Pride spokes-model
The announcing of Phoenix as celebrity spokes-model here raised some issues that were expected. He is an openly gay pornography performer who engages in sex in front of a camera – and he’s paid to do so! However, the policy here on ReNude Pride is that our nakedness is not about sex and none of the photos/images depicting him will reflect him doing so. Social nudity is shared nakedness. It is not an orgy!
We endorse and promote the bare practitioner experience and lifestyle. Our sexuality is supported but not us engaging in the sexual acts. Our openly featuring Phoenix as our spokes-model is based on his appreciation and attitude on being publicly SGL himself and his open preference for nakedness, either social or solo (alone). While we are not promoting his career choice, we are also not denying it. That’s Phoenix’s prerogative, not ours.
Phoenix providing directions to his fellow actors!
A former member of the US Marine Corps, Phoenix acknowledges the varying levels of acceptance, comfort and tolerance others have for him due to his nakedness, his race and his sexuality. As to his race and his same gender love, he knows that he’s unable to change who he truly is. As regarding his clothes freedom, if he absolutely must wear clothing, he complies.
Phoenix emphatic about being himself!
He is a firm advocate of his freedom and his right to be a public Black, gay nudist without any embarrassment, guilt or shame. He encourages all of us to be mindful of the diversity of levels of acceptance, comfort and tolerance; especially concerning or race, our sexuality and our nakedness.
Phoenix is very active in lobbying within the gay porn industry on the behalf of equality for all, regardless of their race, sexual orientation and their nakedness. For too often, the studios and their management executives looked upon the actors – the “gold mine” of the industry – as unworthy of their attention. They chose to ignore that these were the men who earned for them their money!
Recent photo of Phoenix!
The picture (above) is the most recent one we have featuring “our man!” Listed below are Phoenix’s outlined information:
Stage name: Phoenix Fellington
Birth name: Tre Leron Fenderson
Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Birthday: 18 October, 1994
Height: 5′ 8″ (173 cm)
Weight: 165 lbs. (75 kg)
Tattoos: Yes
Body hair: armpit, pubic
Sexuality: Gay (versatile beta)
Outspoken Spokes-Model:
Phoenix Fellington is known throughout the gay porn industry as an outspoken advocate and militant for the interests and the rights of both the performers (actors) and populations the industry thrives upon: same gender loving (SGL) men who prefer to engage in their nakedness. Basically, all of us who are bare practitioners.
Studio executives regularly entertain investors to socials where their actors are required to mingle and socialize naked with the moneyed guests. Phoenix has a reputation of attending these functions, proudly nude and stressing the importance of treating all the guests with integrity and respect, whether they are wearing clothes or not!
In conclusion of this featured tribute to our unofficial official celebrity spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, he shares with us all his sensitive and unique purpose as for being a porn-star:
“Why do I do gay porn? To teach men how to have sex. Responsibly and safely!” Phoenix Fellington, openly gay pornographic actor, ReNude Pride spokes-model
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 7, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “N*B*H*A*A*D*!”
The use of the Liberation Tricolour (above) is appropriate for this post entry here on ReNude Pride. Today, 1 February, marks the first day of Black History Month in the USA. I am legally married to a Black man, Aaron, who is African-Canadian. His heritage is with the Yoruba Tribe of west Africa. As my spouse, we are both co-administrators of this site.
We both reside here in the USA and have dual citizenships and passports: Aaron/Canada and myself/Greece. We both celebrate Black History Month not just during February but throughout the entire year. We cordially invite you to join with us!
Introduction: Black History Month, 2025
The USA’ s Black History Month represents the bold and brave official determination and recognition of a concept and ideal that historically evolved from the racial community and culture which it honours: African-American.
Carter G. Woodson, “Father of Black History Month, USA”
The founder of this occasion, Carter G. Woodson, was himself an inspired, insightful, and proud Black man. When first initiated, it was a new, provocative and radical concept. At that time, all of the entire continent of Africa, with the exception of Ethiopia and Liberia, was under colonial rule. The United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Portugal, Spain and Italy controlled the land, the people and their destinies.
In the USA, Black people lived and worked under segregation (separateness), second-class citizenship and worse. There were no Black pride, Black lives matter nor Black civil rights movements. Discrimination and marginalization were in effect without recourse, nationwide, of the then 48 states by law. It was also practiced nationally (by social custom) until the very late 1950s.
African heritage!
Despite the practically universal global policy of being marginalized (set aside as inferior) and oppressed (dominated), the history of the Black people’s accomplishments and achievements in the USA exceeded and surpassed imaginations. From enslavement to triumphant, African-Americans have not only survived, they have thrived to become a remarkable example of glory, integrity and success.
Black History Month is a time of reflection and rejoicing due to the dreams, efforts and ideals of Carter G. Woodson, affectionately and respectfully known as the “Father of Black History.” Through his dedication and tireless promotion, the foundations (seeds) of history and knowledge were planted and nourished within the minds of old and young, poor and rich throughout the USA. Because of him, Black history is now synonymous with American history and the two are now united.
Carter Godwin Woodson, later in life!
Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson was an African-American author, historian, journalist and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASAALH). He was among the first scholars to to study the African diaspora, especially African-American experiences and history.
Carter Godwin Woodson
Born: December 19, 1875
Birthplace: New Canton, Virginia, USA
Died: April 3, 1950
Deathplace: Shaw neighbourhood, Washington, D.C., USA
Education: Harvard University, Berea College, University of Chicago
Organizations founded: Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASAALH)
Aware of pre-existing commemorations of Black history, organized locally by primarily Black churches and schools, Woodson created Negro History Week around traditional days of honouring the Black American past, the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14). He encouraged people to extend their focused study of African-American history, not to create a new tradition. Woodson believed that history was made by the people, not simply or primarily by great men.
“Sankofa” Adinkra symbol!
The Sankofa Adinkra symbol is an appropriate conclusion for this posting, “Black History Month, 2025!” We are indeed wise to learn from our past, as often as necessary, in order to face our future!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 3, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Phoenix: Our Man!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 