A very special occasion, indeed! The holiday of western Easter and the observation of Bottoms-Up! coinciding together for one Spring-time celebration! All the more reasons for everyone of us to joyfully bare our buttocks, grab the supply of body paint and design away!
Artists being artistic!
Western Easter themes!
Creativity!
For this year, 2024, Holy Easter occurs on Sunday, May 5. It is the time of the year for the celebration of hope for all of us and our futures!
“Easter bottoms-up!”
The rooftops!
Happy bottoms-up! to all! Happy western Easter!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Monday, April 1, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “April Fool’s Day!”
Commando is an ambiguous term with multiple meanings; however, this site’s name is ReNude Pride. The opening header pose features the intended focus of this topic here today. After contemplation, the definition of commando being referenced here obviously is not related to the armed forces and/or the military.
There have been times in our lives when we have seen a picture of someone or something and wondered: what is the meaning of this? Either the subject or the photographer (or perhaps both) are communicating but what is the message?
In today’s posting commando refers to the practice/routine of not wearing any style of underwear (boxers, briefs, thongs, jock-strap) when textile (clothed). For some committed commando devotees, this practice also entails no undershirts. The choice remains with the person opting out! There are no listed “rules of engagement” for commando. It is the decision of the person avoiding the wearing of underwear.
Chad removing his shirt while commando!
Going Commando:
For many, the month of March and the arrival of the Spring season entices them into discarding their underwear. Others decide not to wear underwear – period! The decision id one that each individual makes for themselves. In the .gif image above, Chad is removing his shirt but we can tell that he is totally commando inside his pants. His pubic hairline isn’t contained with any type of waistband.
Certain types of clothing, particularly cycling shorts and kilts, are designed to be worn or are traditionally worn without any garment underneath.
“Going commando” is the phrase used to describe the absence of underwear underneath one’s clothing (pants/shorts). Another phrase used is: “going free-balling” (slang for allowing the testicles to hang freely). The origin of the term “going commando” is unclear and vague. In the gay community, it is often thought to be “out in the open” or “ready for action.” Both interpretations based primarily on the proverbial preparedness for combat readiness of the U.S. Marines.
The army attributes the Vietnam War where soldiers went without underwear in order to “increase ventilation and reduce moisture.” The cause of this association is the extreme humidity the soldiers endured during involvement in that conflict.
Commando embracing!
For many exploring the bare practitioner culture, the commando option is a first step in the process. Underwear, because of it’s intimacy, is the first element of clothing put on and the last element of clothing removed. Discarding underwear is a logical beginning practice when a man is considering nudity. It simplifies the act of getting dressed/undressed.
One of the benefits of “going commando” is the reduction in the amount and frequency of our laundry loads. This conserves effort, energy and time while allowing us the freedom to pursue more pleasurable and rewarding undertakings!
My oldest brother, Nick, is also same gender loving (SGL). Unlike Alex (my identical twin) and I, his indulgence into nakedness is mostly confined to when he is with one of us and a social nudity function is involved. Nick is a commando enthusiast throughout the entire calendar year and boasts of the extra space he now has in his luggage to being boxer-free! Yet another satisfied commando!
Boxer (underwear) freedom!
An additional advantage to “going commando” is that now that March is here, in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring has arrived and along with it, the imminent comfortable, outdoor temperatures. The desire and urgings to skinny-dip (swim naked) is soon to happen!
The spontaneous nature of skinny-dipping is intensified in the sudden and often hurried stripping out of our clothing as we rush to enter into the body of water. In our haste, “going commando” provides us with one less item of clothing to search for once our skinny-dip is finished. Commando makes our lives so much easier!
Aaron, my spouse and I, once the frigid and rough days of winter have passed, frequently “go commando” on weekends, especially when there is a social nudity event occurring. We both appreciate the fact that there is one less article of attire that needs removal. The majority of the time, we’re wearing a pair of jeans (either pants or shorts) as casual clothing usually offers the maximum comfort.
Commando in cameo!
Allow me to reiterate the difference between a bare practitioner and a commando. The bare practitioner is one of complete nakedness. Without any clothing or covering whatsoever, save perhaps some jewelry. A commando individual, at the very least, is wearing pants and/or shorts. Commando is without undergarment, no matter the style or type of underwear the person prefers.
These “fine lines” of distinction may be crossed over at any time. As posted above, Aaron and I are loyal bare practitioners but on occasion we dress commando, depending on the particular circumstance. The same applies to dedicated commando disciples who, at times, opt for nudity.
To my knowledge, there is no restriction forbidding persons from “crossing” from one appearance style to another. It remains the personal choice for each individual. Sometimes, less is much better!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Sunday, March 31, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! Easter, 2024!”
A little post of pure nonsense to set the tone for the first weekend of Spring, 2024! Enjoy!
There are some within our community and culture who have a natural talent or a “flair for the dramatic.” Entertaining at times, it does involve a notion of audience and frequently, much patience! The entertaining aspect features the profound and intentionally theatrical representation by extraordinary measures of whatever is portrayed. The solemn is often played as too absurd to imagine – which is exactly why it is referred to as “over-dramatized!” Much more than necessary!
For the record, the actions are not especially the choice of the actor (person performing) but rather the individual charged with directing the actions – the director or person responsible for delivering the guidance for the performance. The theatrical “airs” one must engage while being traumatized at having to disrobe – and a terrycloth disrobing at that – is beyond belief. Not only must one be inconvenienced, with an arrogant and haughty attitude, but one also must appear grossly offended at having to discard a priceless fashion accessory – oh, that’s right, a simple terrycloth robe!
This is, after all, a dramatic interpretation! One must remember to be overwrought with anxiety!
Once the simple robe has been disengaged from the stage, the major production is finished. Complete. All that remains is a human body that is bare. The terrycloth offered minor resistance but was cast aside when it was recognized as a second-rate performer with severely limited experience.
If the terrycloth robe was the central character, protagonist, what’s remaining?
A bare body. Does this indicate the grand finale is to be a solo performance? Is our lone actor capable of such a climactic undertaking?
Let’s hope the prophecy is fulfilled: The show must go on!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is scheduled for Monday, March 25, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Revolt Against Ottoman Turks!”
Today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride is directly related to the previous postal entry, Bare: Modesty 2! Click on the title to access that particular publication. As always, your support of this site is appreciated by both my spouse, Aaron, and myself! Please have a happy, healthy, safe and successful month of March, 2024!
Introduction:
The “heading” (above image) is a photo that I found somewhere online years ago. The young man has painted on himself the introduction, “Kiss Me, I’m Naked.” I am still able to remember my reaction when I first encountered this picture: Hi Naked! My name is Roger. Nice to meet you!
As if we had actually met, man-to-man, in the real world and were introducing ourselves to one another. I have no further recollection of that discovery or that moment.
I’ve often wondered if anyone, ever, walked up to him and planted a kiss on his lips! What was his reaction? Have they remained friends over all of these many years?
This “introduction” is based entirely on impulse. As I was placing this man’s image here, I felt the sudden urge to share that useless piece of information with others!
Exculpate: to clear of blame or guilt.
A very basic and simple definition of the word. Often in our society, too many of us are taught that nakedness is disgusting and evil. We learn that nakedness is synonymous with indecency and sin. It implies sex and that sex – therefore nakedness – is both repulsive and wrong. It makes no difference that all of us are the result of sex and more than likely, nakedness. Our nakedness makes us inhuman and unclean.
Stop! Wait a minute! If my nakedness does all of that, then before proceeding any further into this entry, take out a sheet of paper and a pen. We’re making a list of degenerates here and at the very top of your list write the number “1” and directly beside it write the name of my spouse, Aaron. Beside his name, write my name! We are both too proud of our nakedness to be bothered or concerned about any type of label.
Now that we have established that priority, we can now continue with the subject here for today: exculpatory evidence! The purpose of this topic is to remind us all – no matter of our level of commitment to being a bare practitioner – that we have the distinction of excelling and of enjoying being ourselves without concern or worry about where we live! Northern Hemisphere or Southern Hemisphere: no alarm or problem! We can be us wherever we reside!
Felipe Ferreira: “pride” tattoo!
Our foremost and initial “reminder” is to briefly revisit with our budding bare practitioner brother, Brazilian-born Felipe Ferreira from our previous post here on ReNude Pride. This past Friday, (1 March, 2024) Felipe was presented here: same image, same pose but with a different message. Is Felipe’s “pride” tattoo a false proclamation of his being gay and bare or is it his acceptance and acknowledgement of himself for just being what and who he truly is: a same gender loving (SGL) man who is also body and clothes free (nude)? According to Felipe’s public comments on his tattoo, he has no problem or shame being both bare and SGL! “I am me!” is his exculpatory answer!
Thank you, Felipe! Naked hugs! Good message of confidence in all of us!
Felipe Ferreira kissing Rhyheim Shabazz!
*************************
Gio Dell (left) and his half-brother, Armani!
The Venezuelan-born half-brothers, Gio Dell and Armani (self-labelled by his frontal tattoo) have no classical proclamations of their allegiances inked (tattooed) onto their bodies; their hesitation to even professionally model clothing and the abundance of their naked portfolio’s clearly delivers their support for “the cause!” So much so that Gio’s adamant refusal to remove and/or shave even one strand of his body hair (except for his head) is all the evidence necessary for their championing of nakedness over textile and their SGL identities (Gio is exclusively gay; Armani is bisexual)!
Their commitment and dedication to the community and culture of bare practitioners everywhere is obvious to all! Positive proof that “natural” (unaltered, unchanged) nakedness can and does generate support throughout the SGL peoples!
A note on the truth: Gio has a natural profusion of body hair everywhere except his head. Armani doesn’t remove or shave his chest, he simply isn’t as naturally endowed as his sibling.
Thank you both, Armani and Gio! Gracias!
Gio: incoming surf!
*************************
Reign and his pubic tattoo!
There is an adage of wisdom that is often passed from one generation to the next. It’s message encourages sincerity and truthfulness: honesty is the best policy. Among us of the bare practitioner community and culture, our compliance and dedication to our philosophy of nakedness enables us to use ourselves and our bodies to extol these truths!
Reign, the gentleman featured above, leaves no doubt as to his agreement with our campaign. Not only does he proudly exculpate his belief in nakedness; he also has it blatantly and boldly tattooed “unashamed” just above his pubic hairline! The proximity of this declaration to Reign’s genitalia affords us no freedom to question his intention! It empowers him to publicly proclaim his philosophy of his sexuality (exclusively SGL) and his nakedness! Additional discussion is not necessary nor needed! His unabashed nature encourages us all towards self-acceptance, self-confidence and truth!
Reign enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2009, when the DADT (don’t ask, don’t tell) policy regarding sexual orientation disclosure was in effect. My spouse, Aaron, and I have often wondered how he survived that policy on his personal sexuality given his bold nature!
Reign: a selfie of his body and exculpatory “unashamed” tattoo!
Caution Advisory:
This next section contains information that may offend some readers as it references sexual practices that involve anatomical intimacies between SGL men. Proceed with caution or simply overlook the section entirely.
Buttock tattoo close-up!
The two images portrayed here are of two tattoos adorning the buttocks of men who are both confident and proud of their pleasures received from allowing them to be penetrated by the erections of their SGL partners. The sexual position referenced here is labelled beta-man or bottom-man or otherwise known simply as bottom. The tattoo on the Black buttocks, “bad” refers to the slang word for “good” meaning pleasing and/or satisfying. “Ass” is the slang used when referring to the buttocks.
This beta-man/bottom-man needs his buttocks penetrated by another man’s erect penis!
In the above picture, a SGL male has the command tattooed on his buttocks ordering the reader to “fuck” (penetrate) his buttocks to satisfy his sexual needs. The “fuck” is sometimes referenced as the “F-word” and is avoided in polite society.
These tattoos featured here in this section are the result of bottom-shaming. For a number of years, the practice of bottom-shaming was engaged by most men, both gay and not, that involved derogatory language and offensive (and violent) actions against those men who engaged in the bottom-man behaviours during their sexual encounters. Such men were stereotypically perceived as being effeminate, “sissies” and being “less than a man.”
The ridicule that men who preferred the beta-man/bottom-man sexual position suffered still continues today among our less enlightened peers. The practice is generally found unacceptably biased by a growing number of persons. Unfortunately, it should be made illegal in order to convince the majority.
Bottom-shaming is one of the reasons many offer for the tattooing of their buttocks!
*************************
Spokes-model Phoenix Fellington bares alone!
Our Spokes-model Exculpates. Too
In the above photograph, our esteemed and unofficial spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, refutes two typical myths attributed to nakedness. First (above), he addresses those who express a fear of being the only one bare among all others textile (clothed). Phoenix’s nakedness stands alone as exemplary! A tribute to the man – himself! The only shame in being among those wearing covering is in not basking in and enjoying one’s nakedness!
Phoenix Fellington, beta-man/bottom-man!
In the above .gif image, our spokes-model reappears alone discrediting the discrimination of bottom-shaming! Phoenix openly and publicly acknowledges his preference for the beta-man/bottom-man gay sexual position.*** There is a no more direct method of refuting fraudulence and hatred than by blatantly, boldly and courageously self-identification with the one’s being marginalized!
Thank you, Phoenix! Your honesty is appreciated and heroic!
*** = Explanation:Phoenix publicly admits his sexual position as “versatile beta/bottom.” His personal preference is the beta/bottom position but, if needed, he willingly assumes the alpha-man/top-man position (either privately or professionally). His honesty and truthfulness is admired and respected, Due to body-shaming, most men opt for discretion. You’re not alone in this one, Phoenix! I’m kneeling on top that picnic table right with you, my man!
*************************
Race Cooper, frontal!
Race Enters, Too
Unabashed advice and concern to alleviate any lingering blame, guilt or hesitancy on your nakedness!
“As a Black gay man, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred and prejudice because of 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 naked. But I do know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their nakedness. Clothes freedom is part of who we are. Just like race and sexuality, we don’t have a choice.” ~ Race Cooper ~ Pink News interview, London, United Kingdom
As an openly (publicly) acknowledged Black, exclusively gay and body and clothes free pornography actor, Race Cooper ( birth name: Joseph Ross Anderson) honestly shared his observations here on ReNude Pride. Click the titles of the post entries listed below to access those publications.
Race’s professional employment in the GLBTQ+ pornography industry included significant positions both in front of the camera lens and in management. To this very day, he remains an advocate for bare practitioners worldwide and promotes equality and integrity for our community and our culture.
Thank you, Race, for your advocacy, concern, devotion and leadership!
Race Cooper, buttocks profile!
*************************
SGL Progress body painted for the World Naked Bike Ride!
Colourful Nakedness
We can all join our community and culture and remind the entire world of our enthusiasm for ourselves in using the creative method of body painting an emblem, image and/or message on our nakedness! An bright and ideal way to convey ourselves and to celebrate us all!
A political statement that reminds others that we have concerns and issues that need to be addressed, too!
A message to share with others that encourage them to think before they judge!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/Renude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 8, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Decline Delayed and Forward!”
This topic, Bare Modesty, was originally announced for publication in January, 2024. It was then postponed due to my personal confusion – over my notes and my draft – while composing the actual post entry. I then substituted another subject and re-scheduled the publication until the following month, February. Today is 1 March, 2024, and I am publishing a condensed and – hopefully – clarified version of my intended post entry.
I sincerely apologize once again for any confusion or inconvenience about this mistake.
Thoughtful identical twins!
Vulnerable? Susceptible? Conspiratorial?
Is it a message of embarrassment, guilt and shame? Or is it an encouragement to discover and explore comfort and relaxation in body and clothes freedom? Obviously, the men depicted in the above images are identical twins, so why do the Black twins imply that one of them has an issue with his nakedness and the White twins are both apparently accepting and unaffected by their nudity? In actuality, the Black twins (Daniel and Darren Shoneye) are both confident and proud of their bare practitioner status in the world! Neither of the Shoneye twins have any hesitation in proving their affinity for their sexuality or their nakedness in their lives!
Daniel and Darren: proud of themselves!
Also, a personal notation. Alex is my identical twin and we can verify that we have no problems in being same gender loving or in being publicly seen in our nakedness. The defining label is “identical” twins for a reason!
Felipe Ferreira and his “pride” tattoo!
Introduction:
The word bare is considered to mean naked, nude, uncovered, empty, void or without. A bare Felipe Ferreira is clothes free (naked). A bare shelf is empty. A bare mind is often used to describe my mental state of being and pursuit of that example would last forever!
The Modesty Syndrome:
Modesty implies the exact opposite idea. It is understood as concern or fear of being considered, seen or viewed as being bare. In particular, regarding textile (clothed). Often this word is involved with a person’s status of being dressed (covered) and/or undressed (uncovered).
In the image above, Felipe Ferreira uses his body language (communication) to confirm or reinforce our knowledge that he is – indeed – posing while totally bare. This makes the fact that he truly is in the state of body and clothes freedom and utilizing his hand as his communication tool to conceal his genitalia from our view. Hence, the subtle message of being “modest.”
Therefore, the action of concealment negates the intended body language while placing emphasis on the reality that Felipe is honestly, really and truly engaging in nakedness. The steps used to insinuate modesty thus have the opposite effect! In other words, “pretend” you don’t want to be seen naked!
Remaining on the picture of Felipe for one final thought. He has “pride” tattooed at the base of his neck. Is this tattoo reflecting his feeling about being same gender loving (SGL) or is it a summary of his feeling about being bare (his nakedness)? Given our frequent encounter of his clothes freedom while with another man, can we conclude it is his confidence in being both gay and naked?
Felipe Ferreira: body language and confidence!
According to his public comments on his tattoo, and his photographic opportunities, he has no problem or shame being both bare and SGL! “I am me!” is his response! At least now, he’s comfortable in modelling his pubic hairline!
Phoenix Fellington (right) and companion!
Absence of Modesty:
Featured above is ReNude Pride’s unofficial spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, and his half-bare companion! Phoenix (birth name: TreLarun Fenderson) is the African-American bare practitioner on the right in the picture. There is no doubt as to his acceptance and comfort with both his nakedness and his SGL attraction (exclusively gay). Likewise, there is no doubt about his repulsion of being considered anything other than what and who he truly is!
In interviews, when questioned about his his nudity tendencies, his standard answer is: “I love to be nude surrounded by nature!” The former U.S. Marine has no regret over his SGL status!
Although his youthful companion wearing only his shirt and showing his masculine anatomy below his waist does raise questions in the minds of some. Why does he feel the need to conceal his chest? Perhaps he feels a chill but more than likely the shirt item was the decision of the photographer and/or his agent. It does appear strange his waving his hand while smiling and exposing his genitalia! Especially with our man, Phoenix, is fully and happily bare right there beside him. One fact is undisputed: neither of the two have an issue concerning modesty except for the obvious: “notme!“
The gay adult film industry (pornography studios) is known for hosting lavish gala events where top celebrity performers are welcome ( and enthusiastically encouraged to socialize naked/nude. This practice began in the mid-to-late 1970s when gay porn evolved into the “gay porn industry” label. When I initially laid my eyes upon this photo, Phoenix portrayed the proud “father” and his waving companion represented his overindulged child. I don’t know if this message/scenario was intended, whenever I encounter this image, that thought automatically reappears mentally.
Phoenix (center) directing his support staff in a scenic exercise!
As to the studio socials? Our spokes-model, Phoenix, has earned the reputation of being extremely outspoken and very “heroic” at these events, often chiding studio executives and their VIP cohorts for any shortcomings, accidental or otherwise, toward his co-workers in the industry. He firmly believes in equality and fairness for all – no matter their professional prestige!
The studio executives and management are finally and reluctantly accepting Phoenix for what and who he actually is. They recognize his talent and enthusiasm and his popularity in the gay porn industry; as long as he continues to produce the financial results they need, they grudgingly allow him to have the freedom he seeks for his professional standards: equality, fairness and primarily his unrestricted nakedness!
His charges of racial insensitivity against the Noir Male executives and the overwhelming success of his boycott of that studio’s discriminatory policies convinced them to accede to his expectations. Sometimes nakedness does achieve profound results!
A modest pose?
Reasoning Assumptions:
The photos directly above and below this section represent the theme under consideration: the subject (model/performer) often may not be in a determining role for the shared images. It may feature them but the details of how much of their anatomy is presented is beyond their control. Others, photographer/videographer, agents, studio executives. financial supporters, etc., may and usually do have the final decision authority.
Quite often, the model or performer has essentially no determination in whether they pose/perform fully exposed or not.
The lack of deliberate body language to obscure nudity does not eliminate the obvious fact. The person presented is naked and apparently unbothered by any emotions surrounding their lack of clothing or covering. The absence of body language to indicate modesty itself confirms that whoever made the decision is aware that any body language would reinforce the nakedness concept and ideal.
Nakedness obvious!
Various people have offered many reasons for their cautious approach to public nudity. Among some of the major excuses, the fear of a public erection – the growth of the male penis – is by far the foremost leader. What males seem to forget is that spontaneous erections – the subconscious occurrence – happens throughout one’s life and usually without any advance warning or conscious stimulation. The more accustomed a man becomes with his nakedness in social settings generally reduces this happening. Having several alternate plans in case this occurs generally helps a person to relax.
Another situation that causes hesitation in social nudity is the reluctance of some to the occasional reality that not everyone has a precise moment to remove any clothing they may wear. Many are uncomfortable in being the first to strip out of their clothing and baring themselves. However, if everyone hesitates, then few, if any, have the chance to enjoy the glory of their nakedness! The best solution for this issue is to plan to get bare whenever possible and let those hesitating make their own decision when convenience happens.
Bare but not bold!
My spouse, Aaron, and I have discussed these and other situations privately and then with acquaintances and friends numerous times and there are an endless number of reasons that people voluntarily give for procrastination. If a clothing optional beach or event is the destination, it is best for deciding when in route to engage in social nudity or not and simply have fun – with or without others. Delaying the joy-of-the-moment for someone else to take the initiative isn’t necessarily the best protocol to adhere.
Indecisive celebration!
Exhibitionism:
For some bare practitioners there exists an absolute fear of being perceived as being an exhibitionist. Exhibitionism is regarded as “the act of flaunting oneself in order to attract attention.” Psychologically, exhibitionism is viewed as “compulsive exposure of the sexual organs in public.” It stands to reason that an exhibitionist is “a person who compulsively (habitually) exposes themselves publicly for attention.”
For the exhibitionist, it is the reaction (response) from the person who witnesses the act that gives them pleasure. It is not the fact that they are naked. They receive their thrill (satisfaction) from offending or shocking another person, more often than not, by publicly stroking themselves. In summary, a thrill-seeker with shock-value!
In most instances and occasions, the offensive actions of an exhibitionist are illegal and are accompanied by serious consequences. It usually involves public prosecution, public embarrassment and humiliation outside of the legal ramifications.
In these situations, the position of modesty isn’t the issue. The person appearing or posing naked/nude doesn’t want the implication of being an exhibitionist associated with themselves not with their body! The modesty entailed here is not with nakedness itself. It is modesty concerning the exhibitionist label and perception.
Author’s advisory:
A sequel to this post entry is planned for Monday, March 4, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Exculpatory Evidence!”
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, March 4, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Exculpatory Evidence!”
The end of February may infer colder temperatures for those of us living in the Northern Hemisphere. However, we all know that those residing south of the Equator are basking in the glory of bare freedom – hence, bottoms-up! – outside in nature. While we may be very envious now, we know for a fact that our day will soon return! Enjoy your time in nature, our southern bare practitioners!
Northern Hemisphere: indoors bottoms-up!
In the meantime, those living north of the Equator will be content sharing our bottoms-up! experiences while inside the warmth of our humble homes!
Even inside, sometimes our toes get cool with colourful socks!
Our bottoms-up! experiences occasionally involve the use of some type of colour accessories to enhance our bare buttocks! Play time always encourages some fun for everyone!
S’naked bottoms-up!
Even the snow offers us a unique opportunity to add some chilly shivers to our bare bottoms!
Celebrity bottoms-up! Jacen Zhu!
Even our bare practitioner celebrities, such as Jacen Zhu (above) enjoy letting others admire his buttock majesty!
Bottoms-up! encouragement!
Of course, we all need to remember to invite those who are unaware of our celebration to join us in our opportunities of bottom-up! fun and games!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, March 1, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bare Modesty!”
“Racism takes many forms and our thoughts on racism, sexuality and nudity need to change.” ~ Joseph Ross Anderson ~ aka Race Cooper The Pink News SGL News Service London, UK 10 June, 2020
Prologue:
The examination and exploration of 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.
Regrettably, racism (racial discrimination and/or hatred based on skin tone) is often a “learned” behaviour – usually passed 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, last year on March 6, 2023. Click on the title to link. My spouse, Aaron, and I both offer this expanded version of the topic in the hope of overcoming our need to be reminded of the importance of this reality in our daily lives. This is the reason, among others, that we do not restrict this issue or topic exclusively to the period of Black History Month.
Race Cooper: tunnel of experience and knowledge!
RaceCooper is the stage name of Joseph Ross Anderson, a talented and thoughtful star of same gender loving (SGL) – bisexual and gay – pornography and outspoken advocate for bare (naked/nudist) rights, sexuality rights and racial equality. He was born and grew up in Toronto, Canada on December 5, 1973. Amazing, he didn’t begin his film career (porn) until 2009 – he was 36 years old! An age when most openly gay porn actors are ready to retire from performing live!
In the same year that he launched his film debut, he started blogging about the porn industry on blogger.com and swiftly acquired notoriety as “a-man-who-tells-it-all!” Race’s blog was a popular favourite as he kept no secrets from his readers. He consistently posted of his experiences with his fellow actors, both complimentary and flattering and…honest and real. His descriptions and observations of their intimate abilities and anatomical attributes made his blog a success for many and a regular “must-read” for both his followers and his peers in the film studios! His writing skills hastened to dispel the stereotype of the gay porn actor as egotistical, “flaky,” and self-obsessed.
He also began to publicly encourage and endorse the expansion of the alpha-man (top-man) and the beta-man (bottom-man) sexual identities to include versatility (preference to engaging in either sexual position or fluidity)!
Additional facts on Race Cooper are listed below:
Name: Joseph Ross Anderson
Height: 6′ (183 cm)
Weight: 180 lbs. (82 kg)
Hair: head (shaved) body (armpit, pubic)
Penis: 7.9″ (20 cm) circumcised
Sexuality: gay exclusive
Sexual position: versatile (preference: bottom)
Clothing status: bare
Film 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 ~ The Pink News 10 June, 2020
Race Cooper: serious!
Race Cooper, based on his own experience in the SGL porn industry, views racism as “a daily constant in the USA.” He initially began working as a casting director for the exclusively SGL studios – Raging Stallion – before he moved to performing in front of the camera. He acknowledges that he was paid considerably less than his White peers and regularly and repeatedly had his work ethic and his intelligence questioned. He honestly believes that he was only hired initially in order for the studio to appear “less racist.”
“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 10 June, 2020
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. Similar to an indentured servant. Enslavement was never a source of distrust and hatred. You worked, earned freedom and then became a neighbour – equal – not inferiour or subserviant.
Playful Race Cooper!
“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 porn industry, I’ve never experienced criticism for being publicly or for being socially naked. But I do know of fellow gay 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 10 June, 2020
Race Cooper was interviewed by The Pink News, a GLBTQ+ news service in London, England, United Kingdom, on 10 June, 2020, for his thoughts on racial inequality in the SGL porn industry in the USA in light of the killing of the late George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. He also wants the porn studios to openly admit that many White men – straight – have been cast into roles, intended for Black gay men. Many of these substitutions were in films catering to primarily SGL African-American audiences.
As a path forward, he’d like to see the studios hire and utilize “diversity mentors” to help casting and hopefully these very same mentors could advance the careers of actors of colour and other minority qualifications. He also advocates the ending of “gay-for-pay” and the immediate end to the shunning of HIV+ porn actors.
Race Cooper: bald head and buttocks!
In the conclusion of his interview with The Pink News, Race Cooper offered – in my humble opinion – his most daring and profound argument against bigotry, discrimination and judgment based on not only just race but sexual orientation and nakedness as well. This declaration was made on his own initiative and observation. Proof positive that Joseph Ross Anderson (Race Cooper) is – heart and soul – a brother bare practitioner and all of us welcome and embrace him in complete nudity and pride into our community and culture! True equality is a basic human right for us all!
“I’ve made numerous naked appearance at gay studio social events. The newcomers to our profession are often intimidated by us older professionals. Usually, fellow Black new actors are gathered, made to strip out of their apparel and paraded 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 10 June, 2020
Great observations, Race Cooper! We are grateful for your honesty!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 26, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bonus: +24!”
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY TO ALL OF YOU FROM THE BOTH OF US!
Best wishes and please remember to share your love with someone this week!
*************************
The V-Men 4 V-Day!
Jason Vario (left) kisses Daymin Voss!
Wearing their jock-straps, Jason Vario rewards his hirsute partner, Daymin Voss, with a kiss. Both their last names begin with the letter, “V!” Hence, V-men! And V-Day is today, Valentine’s Day!
Get in line behind me to get your own kiss from the V-men!
*************************
A Valentine shaped cave entrance!
Enjoy the view from the entrance to a cave shaped almost identical to your heart!
*************************
A manly Valentine profile!
The love that brings about unity also brings with it devotion, happiness and respect!
*************************
A Valentine’s Day ritual!
“Full nakedness! All joys are due to thee,
As souls unbodied, bodies unclothed must be,
To taste whole joys!”
~ John Donne ~ Poet and Church of England priest 1572 – 1631
*************************
An enthroned majestic Valentine!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Naked hugs!
Aaron Poladopoulos-Peterson and Roger Poladopoulos-Peterson/Renude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 16, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “Bare! Black! SGL!”
In 1999, alarmed over the statistics reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the effects of HIV/AIDS on the African-American community, the CDC and the U.S. Public Health Service convened a meeting with representatives of organizations serving Black Americans and persons of faith to address concerns over rising infection rates. Other organizations participating included Concerned Black Men- Philadelphia, Health Watch Information and Promotion Services, Jackson State University, Mississippi Urban Research Center, National Black Alcoholism and Addiction Council and the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS along with the heads of several African-American communities of faith. The National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was conceived by these organizations and the official name agreed upon.
February 7, annually, was decided as the date of observance and the very first observance was announced for the following year: February 7, 2000. The event would be sponsored by the Strategic Leadership Council (SLC) – created specifically for this event – and the membership was determined and terms of office set.
The popularity of the Red Ribbon for the efforts towards HIV/AIDS awareness was noted by the SLC. At the time, awareness ribbons for a multitude of charitable causes were very important in focusing attention to the cause represented and to encourage support. This inspired the creation of an awareness ribbon for the purpose of support of the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day efforts.
NBHAAD Awareness ribbon!
Four Key Components of the NBHAAD Campaign:
The SLC of the NBHAAD campaign mandates four (4) key elements for an inclusive and successful campaign. Each component is designed to build both individual and community strengths in combatting HIV/AIDS for all people.
The four elements and a brief summation are as follows:
Geteducated: Know the facts about transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Getinvolved: Learn about opportunities available in individual and community prevention efforts and become an active part of those efforts.
Gettested: Know your status and encourage others to do the same.
Gettreated: Receive proper healthcare and support to successfully live with HIV.
Dedication!
Analysis proves that people learn and retain knowledge most effectively from people they perceive as most like themselves. NBHAAD is an African-American focused organization, based within the community, to provide direction, guidance and information to the Black population specifically but not exclusively. It represents a resource that is both accessible, authentic and dependable.
Explore your options (choices)! Take back the control of your life!
An important message to share with others!
If your viral load (amount of HIV in your blood) is undetected, then sexually, your HIV is untransmittable!
This message is vital as it advises everyone of the significant benefits of not only getting tested for HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) also for seeking treatment for living with HIV. This enables persons to experience a healthier, longer and more productive life.
Knowledge is power!
HIV/AIDS Basic Facts:
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
AIDS is a result of HIV infection.
HIV is not spread through everyday casual contact.
Only a doctor can diagnose AIDS.
Arthur Ashe, Wimbledon Tennis Champion and AIDS educator!
Throughout the year, NBHAAD has sponsored innumerable locally-oriented activities and events to provide information and involvement on community issues and needs. This level of action increased general awareness and support for both prevention and treatment of the disease.
Personal Involvement:
I served both the City of Alexandria, Virginia Chapter of the Red Cross and the Arlington Red Cross Chapter as a volunteer (not paid) instructor trainer in three HIV/AIDS curriculums: Basic, African-American and Workplace. My responsibility was to teach others how to conduct community prevention education sessions within the curriculum they had elected to enroll. As a Greek man, I always had an African-American co-instructor with me. As a Deaf man, I always had a sign language interpreter with me.
Each class that I taught involved 36 hours of training and a passing score of 85 % on the final examination. Upon completion of each class, a certification was given to each student in recognition of becoming a Red Cross instructor.
Personalities:
Importantly – and fortunately – there are among all of our cultures many who are bold and brave enough to act and think for themselves. Their individual uniqueness is one aspect among the qualities that make life bearable (bare-able) for those of us who live around them or are influenced by them. Ideally, their insight and worldview makes a difference in the lives of others.
The two persons presented here I met through my volunteer position with the Red Cross African-American prevention education curriculum. Both of them are/were same gender loving men and African-American.
RodneyLofton
Rodney Lofton!
A native of Richmond, Virginia, and a student of mine who also became a volunteer with the Red Cross. We taught a teen peer education weekend-long seminar together three consecutive years. Rodney was the first Black deputy director of the GLBTQ+ community advocacy group: Diversity Richmond. In 2015, he received the Equality Virginia OUTstanding Virginian Award. For many years he served on the organizing committee of the NBHAAD function with the City of Richmond. He was the author of two books on growing up both Black and gay in the City: The Day I Stopped Being Pretty: A Memoir (published 2007) and No More Tomorrow: Two Lives, Two Stories, One Love (published 2009). He died in March, 2022, and is survived by his husband, Faron Niles. Rodney was first diagnosed as HIV+ in 1993.
Rodney’s first book!
*************************
KoryMitchell
Kory Mitchell
A mixed-race man born in Germany of an African-American father in the military service and a German mother. He grew up and attended schools in both Germany and the USA. As a young adult he achieved the role of actor within the gay pornography industry and starred in more than three dozen films. He was diagnosed as HIV+ in the early 1990s. When he learned of his status, he became a student of the Red Cross African-American curriculum and after receiving his certification he began teaching HIV/AIDS prevention education to others working in the gay porn industry. He appears at numerous NBHAAD campaign benefits and events and is affectionately known as the unofficial “Magic Johnson of gay porn!” When he became a celebrity, he had “blessed” tattooed across his shoulder and a cross tattooed on his abdomen to remind fans that he is a Christian. Shortly after his HIV+ diagnosis, he had the message “hope” tattooed on his neck. Instead of the letter “o” in hope, he had the red AIDS awareness ribbon placed there.
Kory’s “Blessed” shoulder and neck of “hope!”
Remember, it’s not who we are but it’s what we do that puts us at risk for HIV/AIDS!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next planned post entry here is planned for Friday, February 9, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “S’Naked Simply!”
National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) occurs annually on February 7. This year, 2024, that date happens in the middle of the week on a Wednesday. Using the calendar to our benefit, publishing this post entry two days in advance affords us the chance to provide information of the significance of this occasion for all of us, not just African-Americans. That is the reason for today’s offering entitled:
“The Disproportionate Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Black Community!”
The purpose is to explore specific examples of disparities based on race that produced the multitude of deaths and infections within the African-American population here in the USA. “Disproportionate impact” refers to factors – beyond the control of those affected – that cause harm or injury to those being affected.
“NBHAAD: Part II!” is offered here on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, – the actual date for NBHAAD. It features an overall look at the offerings and provisions of the NBHAAD campaign.
Black SGL couple!
The Disproportionate Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Black Community!
To this day, there are some misinformation and myths surrounding the HIV/AIDS pandemic that remain within the minds of many Americans, even in the days of competition with the coronavirus COVID-19 period. One of the strongest of these untruths is that HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is an exclusively gay (same gender loving: SGL) disease. No matter of the scientific proof to the contrary, this falsehood remains. A close second place to this misconception is the unsubstantiated notion that Black people are highly susceptible to HIV.
In all honesty, it is the White population in the USA that has caused the alarmingly high rate of death and infection from HIV factors among African Americans. The serious mistrust of the public health services by persons of colour was caused and created by people of European descent (Caucasian/White) through bias, discrimination, hate, ignorance, prejudice and segregation. For generations, Black people suffered under the “Jim Crow” laws and separation. This resulted in numerous incidents and instances where the African Americans were subjected to trials and tribulations as “second class” recipients of poor care and mistreatment from the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the local and state health services.
The most infamous and notorious of this disasters is known simply as the Tuskegee Experiment that was underway under the watch of the federal government from 1932 until 1972. It involved 400 Black men “officially” untreated by medicine in order to document and monitor the deterioration of health after being infected with syphilis. It was conducted in the deep south at the then Tuskegee Institute by doctors working for the federal government. Click the link below to see the study details on wikipedia:
Personally, when I first learned of this project, I was shocked that it was permitted to continue after the passage of legislation for equality in the 1960s. I was appalled that social consciousness didn’t end the study and that it was never an issue.
NBHAAD Awareness Ribbon
The results of this maltreatment is the overwhelming reason for the deep and profound distrust of the CDC and the U.S. Public Health Service by the Black population. It was one of the major obstacles that resulted in the delay by the community of colour to the realities of the HIV/AIDS crisis. This, in turn, created the explosion of the new disease within this particular community and culture.
With the issue of distrust of the public health agencies as the primary source of the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS in the Black American community and culture, another very important factor was the cultural and racial insensitivity of educational and prevention information distributed among this population specifically and the general population as a whole. Too often, vague and ambiguous language and reasoning was employed when direct and simple language should have been presented and used.
The majority of Black adults were the products of segregated educational facilities – often resulting in limited comprehension of the materials provided to them. This unclear information caused confusion and misinterpretation that strengthened frustration and resentment. Government and politicians were well aware of this disparity and failed to address this problem.
Important reality!
For example, instead of “negotiating” the “effectiveness” of the use of a condom, the direct action approach: “tell him if he’s not wearing one, he’s not getting any!” would have deliberately delivered the message in a clear and concise manner. Minimal room for confusion and hesitation with a response such as that! The meaning is plain no matter the gender of the individual receiving the reply.
Distrust and insensitivity in communication are two of the examples offered for the high rates of HIV/AIDS deaths and infections within the African-American community and culture. Another example of almost equal importance is the prolonged inaction and inertia from the government departments over the staggering statistics. Prompt examination over the reported data clearly indicated a major breakdown and inappropriate flaw in the materials and methods long before a serious problem arose. Had discrimination and segregation not existed prior to the outbreak of HIV, the results could and probably would have been significantly different.
Due to budget constraints and the executive and legislative blindness of the republican politicians, funds for public health concerns and programs were severely hampered while defense spending soared.
This situation initiated a dilemma rarely believable in the supposedly wealthiest country in the world. Repeatedly, funds were scarce and demands on the necessity of compliance skyrocketed. Resources were completely unavailable and politicians refused to even consider any concession to ease the crisis for “those” people – the Blacks and other ethnic and racial minorities, the gays and the drug injectors. Evidently, the republican belief was that society could only benefit from the death of “those” people!
Vital message!
Financial assistance and grants to local public service agencies and not-for-profit organizations working within the Black community on a local basis would have greatly reduced the widespread gap between mistrust and trust that existed. A local establishment would have afforded both at atmosphere of credibility and recognition that would enhance the information and message delivered. This would have alleviated the stigma of HIV/AIDS as being a “homosexual White man’s disease.”
Awareness and pride!
“As committed, dedicated, honest, open and sincere bare practitioners (same gender loving naturists/nudists), all we desire is for the world to see us as we perceive ourselves: all naked, all natural. We have nothing to hide and are without reason for shame. We are proud of our nudity and our same gender love. They are not cause for embarrassment, fear or guilt. That is simply what and who we are in our life.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos-Peterson ~ Deaf Gay Alliance speech Washington, D.C., 4 December 2022
Yet another barrier created by both the republican executive and legislative arms of the federal government that fatally delayed and hindered any productive reaction from the community of colour to the ravages of this pandemic.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Wednesday, February 7, 2024, and the proposed topic is: “NBHAAD Part II!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 