A selfie with a complete view of his being bare! The response to the Posing Bare series here on ReNude Pride has been both rewarding and surprising for both Aaron, my spouse, and me! Originally planned as simply a two-post segment for January, 2025, it grew and developed beyond our imaginations! The results energized us both to expand the series; Aaron now is addicted to finding new photographs/prints to add to his collections.
Today’s offering is focused on the “selfie” – self-photography that increases in popularity with personal phone usage – and some issues resulting from selfie posing. Selfies present their own challenges but they do involve “fun” while posing! The fun continues after posing when sharing the images with acquaintances and friends.
A facial selfie!
Today’s offering is focused on the “angle-pose” (our term to describe the pose which includes the face plus enough of the body to show nakedness). Aaron’s selection of the selfie is based on the ever-increasing number of selfie photographers, especially within the bare practitioner community, even though cameras remain “officially” discouraged if not outright banned from the majority of clothing optional facilities and properties.
The prevalence of the cell phone with its camera in our current society is causing many of those stalwart camera opponents within the naturist/nudist world to threaten the growing number of cell phone proponents. This situation isn’t resolving itself amicably. Soon, one of the two groups will demand the wearing of clothes as a just punishment! Seriously, I am being facetious here but who knows?
The differences of opinion between the two groups have not reached the conflict level at this time. However, hostilities can erupt without any warning!
A tongue becomes involved
The facial features obviously enhance and enrich the distinction this type of appearance contributes to both the audience that views the photo as well as the subject/photographer. It adds “personality” to the image that otherwise would possibly be routine. It adds quality of life and allows the viewer to question the thought processes of the selfie creator!
We chose the recommended pose for today because not everyone, even the most enthusiastic and seasoned bare practitioner is entirely comfortable with their male anatomy being publicly featured. The uncertainty of where the pictures will be shared enters into the concern and it is a valid consideration. This particular pose that is featured is popular but one of the most difficult to capture as a selfie.
It is a complexity to achieve the angle and depth to exemplify the nakedness of the subject and the completion of the pose itself. The discretion of the subject increases the appeal of this particular pose while simultaneously delivering the message of being bare without being blatant!
The selfie-style photo within arms reach provides the user with immediate image taking choices, while at the same time it does offer some restrictions. It limits the options available and it also reduces the depth and expansion of the pose. The inclusion of the face along with the image removes the possibility of bare body freedom.
The wearing of glasses in general, sunglasses in particular, presents the possibility of reflections being visible to viewers. Being aware of this may be reasons for abandoning any visual enhancement while creating selfie images.
Lounging!
The use of a tripod or a unipod with a camera device mounted resolves some of the limitation challenges encountered with selfies. The tripod offers options that expand both depth and nakedness being featured in the images. The only caution is the self-timing ability and returning to the intended pose. An often unmentioned advantage is the fact that all unwanted pictures can be deleted!
Tripod advantage: depth and body visibility!
The use of a unipod and/or tripod helps to expand the range of selfie photography and offers options for capture. It also enables the appearance of acquaintances, family and friends in the images. This expands the subjects and allows an increase in the posing possibilities. These improve the messages and the situations the photos convey to viewers.
A note of warning: any support that you provide for your camera also increases the “background” likely to show in any pictures. Keep in mind what may be visible to your viewers!
Posing options!
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The Dilemma!
Disappointment!
My spouse, Aaron, and I were both equally excited about the upgrades that we announced this past Friday here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! We were eagerly awaiting the reactions, both bad and good, to the home page! However, since last Friday, it has been disappointment and frustration all the way.
The deletions of some of the secondary pages here was denied. Some of the photo “widgets” were unable to be deleted and a new “header” image was denied.
I have tried for several hours during Saturday to amend and/or to substitute the intended alterations. Nothing seems to work towards our satisfaction.
Therefore, it appears that for at least now, the revised Home page here is what is already visible.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 18, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Great and Holy Easter, 2025!”
The header (opening photograph, above) is being used here in order to capture the attention of followers, readers and visitors. If I had placed my initial image here as the header, the majority would have “rolled their eyes” or “shrugged their shoulders” while thinking: “What, again?”
Now, the camera gets the attention as everyone prepares to pose. But the attention is what is desired as this posting is a notice of changes here on this site. Innovations that both Aaron, my spouse, and I hope you’ll appreciate! The intended purpose/goal/function of this post entry was originally to announce and introduce a completed, new Home page here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! The intention was confronted by reality, time restraints and the facts that ability and creativity are not always compatible according to dreams and plans.
Some of the changes covered here have already happened. Others may be modified and implemented gradually over the next two weeks. Hopefully, the entire ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! renovation will be complete by the end of April, 2025!
Almost all the text below was written before my “surprise” birthday event this past weekend. Rather than update and recompose the entire post entry, I am improvising, inserting and asking for your patience and tolerance.
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
No, I am absolutely not losing my mind and becoming overly redundant! There is a very specific reason for intentionally publishing the above picture of Daniel Shoneye (left) and his friend/partner with their arms interlocked around the trunk of a palm tree. This particular photo is now incorporated here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers as representing my spouse, Aaron and myself.
Why? First, because Aaron and I are a biracial couple – he’s African-Canadian and I’m Greek. Second, I previously explained the reality of a Deaf person “linking arms” as opposed the communication restriction of “holding hands.” Most Deaf people “talk” manually instead of vocally. In this image, their arms are linked so their communication isn’t impaired.
Third, we’re both bare practitioners – same gender loving and our preference is our nakedness. The same is evidently true for the couple under the palm tree above! Fourth, we are a “tropical” couple: better a palm tree rather than a fir tree or a barren one! Sunshine and no snow!
Addendum: 9 April, 2025: Another discussion between the both of us has brought us to the decision that the below photograph will now be our “official” representative image for this site. Aaron had “second” and “third” thoughts about the proposed replacement (above). He convinced me to his ideas. We both admit to being aquatic-oriented as opposed to tree focused!
Dress code compliance: bare nakedness!
The title here is another change that has already occurred. We are now (officially): ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! My first blog was named A Guy Without Boxers. Now that we are legally married, in deference to our legacy, we have reclaimed not only commando status (no boxers) but some ownership of our history. Also note that we are now a plural identity, “guys” as opposed to singular “guy.”
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The Gravatar
ReNude Pride gravatar!
Above is the current gravatar (signature image) for ReNude Pride. It was designed by Aaron (my spouse) and has been in use continuously since January, 2017. The triangular rainbow (GLBTQ+) outline which was based on the concentration camp badges the Nazis forced the homosexual inmates to wear. The buttocks aptly represent nakedness. The theme for this site has always been same gender loving nakedness.
A Guy Without Boxers gravatar!
The emblem above was the gravatar used for my first blog here on wordpress.com, A Guy Without Boxers. It is visually explanatory as no boxers, thus no underwear, was allowed. Underwear, the first item of clothing adorn, hence without it, one was bare, nude, naked!
As to the emblem that will best reflect the new title for this site: ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! , Aaron and I are still debating. Initially, we were both inclined to abandon the concentration camp symbolism due to the Palestinian Genocide and Holocaust committed by the zionists in Gaza, Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, friends of ours, both Jewish, have argued that the brutalities are the acts by the civil government and not approved by all Jews.
Aaron and I continue to discuss changing the gravatar. We both agree that if we do revise, we’ll revert to the original A Guy Without Boxers design rather than create a new one.
One idea is to post both the gravatars together from now until the end of summer, 2025. On that date, delete the triangle and utilize the “no boxers” exclusively. At the very least, we’re publicly sharing that likelihood to all now.
Addendum: 10 April, 2025: As of this moment, we have agreed to now retain the gravatar for the ReNude Pride site. We’ll continue to utilize both images whenever necessary.
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Deletions
We’re deleting the secondary listings page and the recent posts listings sections. The secondary pages section and the recent posts are rarely used throughout the year. The Home page layout automatically shows the five (5) most recent entries and this elimination deletes duplications and opens “extra” space.
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Photo album similarity!
Unfortunately, our Home page has acquired a very striking similarity to a featured photograph album since January, 2017. The majority of the images are random and unrelated except for depicting clothes freedom and same gender love. A few pictures and/or graphics convey the identical messages and/or themes without appearing too gaudy!
Hopefully, implementing these changes will significantly reduce confusion and congestion here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! Our goal is to present an orderly and organised appearance that is both attractive and colourful.
Seasonal Adjustment Addition:
The final (last) widget featured on the left side of the Home Page here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers will be a seasonal graphic/photograph reflective of a life of nakedness and pride in the Northern Hemisphere. The first one represents: Spring!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 14, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Posing Bare #4!”
The month of April – for us Northern Hemisphere inhabitants – annually is the first full month of the Spring season! This short month (30 days) does not officially share a single day with any other season, ever! Thirty complete days of springtime. Now, weather may differ as we possibly may endure a few days of outdoor winter-like temperatures. Our consolation being that summer and warmer days are soon upon us all!
Retired gay actor, Francois Sagat, of Algerian-French heritage serves as our “host” here on ReNude Pride for this post-entry feature. In addition to being publicly same gender loving, he also prefers nakedness instead of clothing – even though after his retirement he designs, models and promotes his labelled men’s sensual intimate garments. We are overjoyed to include him in our bare practitioner community and culture! We welcome here with us on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Francois Sagat returns home after working out!
He strips off his commando-style gear!
Below his waistline!
Totally clothes free!
Now that he’s back home, Francois focuses on getting comfortable which means that all his cumbersome burden of clothes are off his body. He is a solid and toned example for all of us of healthy living and physical fitness! He provides living proof that body and clothes freedom is indeed “fashionable” for each and every one of us, no matter our age! In the header series of images (above), he reminds us that fashion is always best: r-e-m-o-v-e-d!
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Francois Sagat: jogging along the shoreline!
In addition to affording us a “live” demonstration of the etiquette of stripping (removing) our bulky and uncomfortable clothes, Francois now aptly presents us with another “live” scenario of a deserted beach activity early is the month of April. Instead of allowing the natural space to waste away, he gives us glimpse of keeping current in exercise, fitness as well as promoting nakedness!
Refreshing his breath after his jog!
An early jog along the sandy shoreline allows him to maintain circulation, to strengthen muscles, and bolster his mental health outlook – and to burn any excess calories! It also helps to encourage others in awareness of our bare practitioner culture through visual inspiration!
Attracting the attention and the curiosity of others!
In taking a “breathing” pause, if he encounters a spectator along his route, Francois enables interaction should there be any questions about clothes freedom and or same gender love. Even today, conversations shared at countless social nudity gatherings involve such basic topics as “How did you learn of our group/network?” Casual acquaintances rarely tire of conversations involving there early encounters with nudity!
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Francois Sagat was born in France on 5 June, 1979. He began filming pornography in France with Citebeur Studios before moving to USA and working with Raging Stallion Studios. In 2008, he signed exclusively with Titan Media studios who he retired from.
One aspect of Francois is totally unique. He shaves his head! The “full” head of hair is actually one complete tattoo!
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Francois Sagat stretching!
Not only is our man, Francois, satisfied with the results of his fitness routine, he’s anxious to share the total project: his nakedness! He rotates allowing us an examination and inspection of what he has to offer, clothes free and unobstructed. As bare practitioners, we admire the man and appreciate his efforts! Thank you, Francois Sagat! A true inspiration for bare practitioners everywhere!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 7, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “ReNude-A-Thon!”
Before anyone types a nasty note for me, his hands are arced into a shape of the human heart. Clearly a representation of affection and love! Why focus on affection and love in April and not February which is when we have Valentine’s Day? The reason is simple: I love April! I love Spring! I love Aaron, my spouse! And he loves me! As a footnote, both Aaron and I were born during the month of April – different dates and different years!
As a reminder, we’re both advocates and enthusiasts of nakedness! Bare practitioners from head to toe – bare, commando or clothed! If you haven’t already, we cordially invite you to join us in our body and clothes freedom endeavour!
A “new” pictoral representation of Aaron and myself: an interracial couple!
When Aaron saw this photo, he immediately approached me with the idea of using this to represent the both of us here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! I felt the same except I would prefer more of the palm fronds (leaves) visible!
Me bare in a public park in early April!
April is also the first full month of the Spring season here in the Northern Hemisphere. We’re also heat and sunshine addicts – another reason to appreciate the commencement of this month! At last, the bleak, boring, drab winter landscape is now dissipating and our natural surroundings are now slowly reappearing with the brightness and colours of the fresh season!
Yours truly at the LBJ Memorial, GW Parkway!
The beginning of Spring often provides chill, cool mornings that are not the best time for posing bare. This monument is covered by shade for most of the morning hours and I remember how cold it is until the early afternoon! As our outdoor weather temperatures begin to rise, we bare practitioners increase our “natural-in-nature” outings! More fun for everyone!
Flexing together!
The month of April is compatible with our bare practitioner identity – especially our cherishing of our nakedness, both privately and socially. Optimum skin, minimum covering! Bold and proud!
Not warm enough – yet!
We observe the arrival of April simultaneously with the beginning of Spring. It is early in both the new month and the new season. The external water temperature may not invite our indulgence now, but we’re prepared to enjoy it in the foreseeable future!
Happy days are here, once again! Welcome April! Welcome Spring!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 4, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “April = ReNew + ReNude!”
Jockstraps (profiled) two sharing kisses in the changing/dressing room!
Jockstraps – also known as “athletic supporters” are the male exercise/fitness intimate garment worn to offer protection and support to a man’s genitalia (penis and especially testicles) while physically active. The popular apparel is traditionally a pouch for the anatomy and a waistband. That’s it!
Openly gay porn actor, XL, in his multi-strapped jock-strap!
Straps, usually one holding each buttock cheek, help keep the garment “in place.” However, our model here, XL, is wearing a version that features multiple straps to secure his jockstrap to his bountiful buttocks!
Unlimited and easy accessibility!
Here, our anonymous model shows his “regular” athletic supporter with the traditional two straps!
Mounted on the shoulders of his partner, his straps remain visible!
Our mounted rider (above) has only his straps apparent as his partner walks him along the sandy beach!
Felipe Ferreira gives a full rotation wearing his jockstrap!
Brazilian-born Felipe Ferreira is proudly comfortable twirling around and giving us all a glimpse of his buttocks inside his fashionable jockstrap!
Furry buttocks covering his jockstrap!
If his hairy buttocks continue to grow the follicles may eventually conceal his secure straps completely!
Gay actor Marc Williams stretches and offers a complete picture!
Muscular Marc Williams had a favourite colour for his undergarment: orange! That colour and his shapely bottom combined to make his Halloween costume very life-like!
Francois Sagat: jockstrap!
Retired gay porn star, Francois Sagat, offers his jockstrap in patriotic colours for all to wear! There is more Francois Sagat planned for April, 2025!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author Notes: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Tuesday, April 1, 2015, and the proposed topic is: “April Arrives!”
Today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride serves two important purposes. First and foremost, as a parody (nonjudgmental ridicule) of the commando (no underwear) lifestyle. It is intended for fun rather than factual information.
The second purpose is of a personal experience. Shared with my identical twin brother, Alex, when we began our first year at the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind (VSDB), a residential school operated by the Commonwealth of Virginia for students who are Deaf from level 4 (primary) through secondary school.
The .gif image introducing the Personal Experience segment here depicts a man ripping (tearing) off his boxer style underwear rather than trimming (cutting) off the waistband. The use of “artistic literary license” here! Naked hugs!
The Chain of Command Demands No Underwear!
Now, in the interests of reality, the “chain of command” demanding a no underwear policy is a very bold new move that offers one essential truth: there will now be quite a number of young men – who modelled underwear – now wandering about completely naked! Their nakedness, being involuntary and sudden, has created a bare, confused and clueless crowd of men parading and running around with their hands covering their genitalia and totally unsure of exactly where they are supposed to go!
Our man (above) give us a clear image of excessive modesty when caught unaware of the chain of command demand! No underwear = exposed penis = mindless alternative = modesty = human suffering. No! Wait! Look at the picture (below) of the twins, the Shoneye pair! Look at the muscle tone of their carefully maintained bodies. The only human suffering depicted here are the overworked hands allowing us a full view of their male anatomy!
The Shoneye Twins!
The relaxed Shoneye twins in truth are proud public bare practitioners! They’re Nigerians living in London (King Charles III and the Commonwealth) they’re both same gender loving and they’re both committed naturists/nudists! They could care less who looks at their identical genitalia! The result? The chain of command demand has minimal impact on either one of them! Eliminate the Poladopoulos twins from that consideration, too! Alex and I are also bare practitioners so identical twins are immune to the chain of command demand on the broad encompassing underwear issue.
Obviously, those persons who normally do wear undergarments are affected by the CoCD (chain of command demand) but a problem remains to be solved. If everyone is wearing pants or shorts, how can we determine if they’re following orders? If all of us are compelled to wear no underwear, then obeying the demand makes all of us body and clothes free! How can the disobedient be identified and punished?
If the failure to adhere to the law (no underwear) is the actual wearing of underwear, then how do we enforce the law? Force people to wear underwear? Isn’t that how they got into trouble initially? Ignoring the no underwear restriction? So what becomes the appropriate justifiable punishment? This can easily become and endless and repetitive cycle of events!
Commando profile: Buttocks-to-Buttocks!
Every culture has at least one “origin of underwear” legend/myth//story/tale that offers the reason for the need for underwear. Most cultures have multiple explanations as to the absolute necessity for what we now know as undergarments. Legends and myths merge with historic reality that provide us with the cause of this fashion tradition.
In all fairness, not everyone recognized the actual need for underwear. For example, in ancient Rome, no one wore boxers or briefs under their togas! That alone would have made the wearing of a toga ridiculous! In Scotland, even to this day, undergarments (no matter what style) is not permitted to be worn under a kilt! Otherwise, men would abandon the kilt altogether and cover themselves with long pants!
Kilted duo!
Therefore, in gratitude to togas and kilts and all other forms of men’s fashion that are not underwear compatible, the commando custom/habit/tradition evolved into being. The preference for the wearing of a male garment (pants, shorts, shirt, etc.) without underwear appeared – or, the the case of underwear itself – disappeared!
The wearing of underwear became optional. It was no longer considered an essential item of clothing for the “best dressed!” Now, the choice was individual by nature and could be arbitrary – underwear during the day, none during the night or vice versa.
Becoming commando!
A Personal Experience:
Alex, my identical twin brother, is 74 minutes older than me. When we reached Level 4 in primary school, we were sent to the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind (VSDB) in Staunton, Virginia, as residential students (dormitory living). It was during our second semester there (Spring) that we both learned on commando (underwear free) living. Twin (shrewd Alex) devised a way to observe the lifestyle and avoid discovery. He took scissors and cut of all of his boxer shorts below the waistband!
Every morning, while donning our required uniform, he dutifully wore the waistband only. Instant boxer freedom!
Miraculously commando! Now, when our teacher required us to line-up for “underwear inspection,” all he had to do was show his waistband! Excellent opportunity for several weeks until one of our classmates confessed to our teacher. From that moment on, we all had to unleash our belts and pull our pants down to our knees!
A foiled fowl play!
Dominic Santos (left) demonstrates a commando benefit!
Today is the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary, Mother of God)! This is the date selected for the uprising against the Ottoman Empire that culminated with freedom for the Kingdom of Greece!
Bishop Germanos raised the flag of revolt over the Monasery of Agia (Saint) Lavra on Pelopannesa on this date, March 25, 1821.
Come and join us! Bare, of course!
Royal Guard (Ivzoni) raising the national flag!
Greece!
The flag’s symbolism!
`Opa= Greek expression for excitement, salutation, joy, surprise, greeting, and impressive!
A contemporary man posing as an ancient Greek warrior!
One popular and eternal, longstanding myth is that the ancient Greek army fought battles while totally naked. Even though the culture was very accepting and embraced public nakedness and same gender affection, especially for men, the army always wore at the very least a loincloth.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 28, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Commando? None For Me!”
Phoenix Fellington, our “unofficial” official spokes-model, (left) offering advice to a co-star!
Background:
As a casual introduction to today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride, our featured host is our very own man, Phoenix Fellington, (pictured above, left) worldwide celebrated performer/director in the gay porn industry and the “official” unofficial (not financially compensated) spokes-model (representative) of this site! Not only is he proudly and publicly an advocate for our distinguished bare practitioner lifestyle – he personally demonstrates and vocalizes his confidence and support whenever possible!
A few reminder notes on our successful spokes-model. His birthname is TreLeron Fenderson and he was born on 18 October, 1994, in the city of Detroit, Michigan, USA. He is a former U.S. Marine now very active in the gay pornography industry.
He never tires of proclaiming to the media, “I love being naked outside!”
Directions for his co-starring actors!
Ever since he began his professional career as an honest and openly clothes free and same gender loving man, he’s always been demonstrative and inspirational for us all to “truly be ourselves, to be real!” He had no serious regrets serving in the military under the “DADT” (don’t ask, don’t tell) restrictive guidelines in effect. Like the majority of us, he’s full of gratitude to then-President Obama for his executive order terminating that unfortunate exclusion during his first term of office.
Phoenix Fellington, encouraging the bare and gay experience!
The two .gif images displayed here are Phoenix as he was beginning his professional experience after his military service. He wasted no time in extolling others to take pride in themselves as same gender loving and in their nakedness. If that was their destiny in life, then be the best that you can possibly be doing what makes you happy. It’s all part of life!
A confident inspiration for us all!
Thank you, Phoenix Fellington, both for your encouragement and for all your inspiration! You are an example for us all!
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Creative exercise!
Routine maintenance!
Conclusion!
New Year’s Resolutions versus Spring Resolutions:
Self-improvement is one of the primary motivations for introducing changes into our lives. We all want to “feel better” about ourselves and we want to look better. The desire may very well be present, but our timing is probably not an encouraging factor. The arrival of the winter season, coupled with the bleakness of the weather for the next three months, seriously reduces the likelihood of success.
Our commitment and determination may be strong, but the reality of rolling over in bed for an extra hour of comfort, sleep, and warmth is the reality that often overcomes our resolve. Procrastination trumps positive productivity. Human nature is a trait our species battles on a daily basis. Why add another stress factor as a part of our routine?
A return to reality! The arrival of the Spring season and our renude (renewed) environment (nature) accompanied by our positive attitudes are much better and conducive for the success of any changes. Every step forward brings us closer to our final reward!
Affectionate kissing!
One of the major goals (purposes) for the creation of ReNude Pride (this site) in January 2017 was to provide a space that is receptive and welcoming for same-gender-loving (SGL) people (bisexual or gay) who prefer nakedness (clothes freedom). Our community and culture embrace the descriptive label bare practitioner. It avoids the terms/words that usually invoke bias and judgment. My spouse, Aaron, and I both believed bare practitioner was neutral in the minds of most people who were inclined to marginalize both our community and our culture.
Race Cooper!
“As a Black Canadian gay nudist man in the USA porn industry, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred and prejudice because of race and sexual orientation. It is unfair and unjust. It is wrong. As an actor/performer, I’ve never experienced “in my face” criticism for being and public nudist. But I know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their nakedness. Clothes freedom is a part of who we all are. Just like race a sexuality, we don’t have a choice.
In Canada, race, sexuality and nudity 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 ~ Joseph Ross Anderson ~ The Pink News London, UK June 2020
Interracial couple!
Aaron and I are an interracial married SGL couple. He’s African-Canadian and I’m Greek and we both believe that the above quote from Race Cooper may possibly ease any alienation and/or discomfort sensed by other interracial couples within our bare practitioner community and culture. Hopefully, this inclusion sets a welcoming message for everyone.
For several post entries on this topic from the past, click the links below to access:
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!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 