An observation from Dale Carnegie (above) that is valuable to practice and to remember. The majority of us can benefit from his insight. Patience, tolerance and understanding are assets often forgotten if not completely ignored.
A valid hope for a better future!
An achievement goal from Nelson Mandela!
Hope is justified when we look and move forward in our lives. Fear is nothing more than an alien excuse for compliance and inaction!
Nothing to fear!
Reality and truth!
Have a safe and wonderful weekend!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, September 12, 2022, and the proposed topic is a promised posting by my spouse, Aaron, entitled: “TIPS!”
Every year during the traditional gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) pride celebrations, this question is continually posed to members of our community and culture, mainstream society, politicians and social commentators. The responses vary as to the background, political and religious leanings and social opinions and views of the persons asked.
Unfortunately, each year the replies increase in the expression of negativity. Aside from our community and cultural populations, the consensus grows as to the useless need for any GLBTQ+ pride commemoration. Many believe that equal rights have been obtained and flourish for all of us, regardless of our identity. However, recent actions and events indicate otherwise.
It is important to note that the visibility of our display of our pride frequently varies from individual to individual. Some feel the need for a prominent unfurling of our confidence by waving a flag or painting our bodies. Others are comfortable and content with merely publicly demonstrating their affection within our community by physically touching our otherwise engaging themselves and their nudity. There exists no concrete standard to be observed by all. My spouse, Aaron, and I use whatever method we find appropriate and available for the occasion.
Beach pride!
Immediately following the SIR (Stonewall Inn riots) in June, 1969, the emerging same gender loving communities recognized the need for celebrations in honour of all the newly “liberated” people to acquire acceptance, identification and recognition of themselves as a confident and proud culture within the mainstream population. Having survived the “closet” lifestyle for the vast majority of their secreted lives, these individuals needed to embrace themselves and build their new identity.
Pride celebrations were seen as a tool to encourage this need and in June, 1970, exactly one year after the SIR uprising, “gay liberation” events were held in New York City, San Francisco and Los Angeles to honour the occasion and to promote a fostering of community. These first observances attracted sizeable crowds of the growing community and their supporters – as well as protestors!
The initial events were determined to be successful and by the second anniversary of SIR, other municipalities were planning and staging their own festivals and parades to mark the occasion. Stonewall riots had most definitely captured and inspired our attention and our dreams for eventual equality!
Progress rainbow design body-painted on chest!
The first “gay liberation” observances soon evolved into pride festivals in order for people to celebrate their sexual freedom and identity. These witnessed the growing confidence that we felt as a community experiencing the first steps toward self-identification. We no longer accepted the archaic and derogatory label of “homosexual.” We welcomed the terms gay, lesbian and bisexual as appropriate titles of distinction and identity as constituents of the emerging culture that now entailed all of us. The decade of the 1960’s opened the doors for change and we became inspired by a new identity and hope for an improvement in our collective future. Freedom from centuries of condemnation, isolation and oppression was finally underway!
The popularity of pride events and the audiences they attracted made us aware of the fact we now numbered more than just an isolated “few.” There were now a sizable group of us and we were no longer alone. This awareness opened our eyes to the reality that we had much more in common than just our sexual situation. Others existed with similar abilities, attributes, ideals and interests. Community-building was now another development happening!
Our discovery of pride – within ourselves, in what we are and in who we are – became a solid foundation. It enabled us to become a working movement to initiate change, enhancement and growth, not only within our own society in general but throughout the world.
The original “Rainbow” flag and what the colours represent!
Despite our many differences, we acknowledge shared goals, ideals and objectives. In order to emblaze and empower our recognition and visibility, the Rainbow flag was selected to represent us. Each colour represents a common behaviour, belief and/or standard. The flag was designed by San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker and was first used in 1978. It was rapidly adopted across the globe.
The new Progress Rainbow flag in use with a background of the traditional Rainbow flags!
The Progress Rainbow flag was first unfurled in 2017 and was designed by Daniel Quasar. It includes the original banner plus the addition of insertions to represent the components of both racial and sexual diversities as well as representation of persons living with HIV/AIDS and those who died from the virus. The Progress flag is considered by many to truly reflect the majority of all persons within the GLBTQ+ culture. Many persons, both within our culture and from the outside, have commended Dan Quasar for incorporating the original Rainbow flag as a part of his design.
Author’s note:This flag is my personal favourite as I believe it is entails a greater representation of all of us – no matter what or who we consider ourselves.
Keith Haring’s “Coming Out Day” artwork!
In 1988, the GLBTQ+ culture launched National Coming Out Day on October 11, annually, in support of all people taking a “giant step” out of the closet and making themselves an example of pride. The concept is based on the personal being political – a popular idea. The emphasis is the basic form of social activism as openly acknowledging oneself to family, friends and colleagues and living life as a confident bisexual, gay or lesbian person.
The fact that homophobia thrives in an atmosphere of ignorance and silence, once people know they have loved ones – family or friends – who are themselves bisexual, gay or lesbian they will be less than willing to engage in homophobic or hateful behaviours. The goal being making the world a less repressive place.
Exiting his closet!
The examination of the title question here today, Is Pride Necessary?, provides mewith the simple response: yes! Not every one of us are raised to maturity in an environment that is accepting and supportive of a person’s prerogative to become the person that they indeed are. Not all of us are able to make that determination in our lives. Therefore, I feel that pride is not only necessary but essential.
If at least one person questioning her/his sexual identity is answered, then yes, pride is necessary.
If at least one suicide over sexual identity is averted, then yes, pride is necessary.
If at least one despondent and lonely person finds acceptance and friendship, then yes, pride is necessary.
If at least one ideal is met and achieved, then yes, pride is necessary.
If at least one person reaches out and helps another, then yes, pride is necessary.
If at least one dilemma or problem is solved, then yes, pride is necessary.
A community is based on determination, purpose and through person-to-person contact. A culture is built upon communities interacting and working together. A cultural dynamic often opens doors and initiates a positive development for humanity, then yes, pride is necessary.
Pride!
This year, on June 13, 2022, police in the state of Idaho, in the USA, arrested 31 people who had face coverings, white supremacist insignia, shields and an “operations plan” to riot and open gunfire on an GLBTQ+ Pride event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, a city of about 50,000 people near the border with Washington state. Police identified all those arrested as members of Patriotic Front, a white supremacist group already known for extremist tactics.
The organizers of the GLBTQ+ event said it was a family-friendly community event celebrating diversity and building a stronger and unified community for all. The sponsoring group is the North Idaho Pride Alliance and the event was entitled “Pride In The Park.”
In another incident related to the same Pride In The Park, police conducted a similar action against the Panhandle Patriots, a local motorcycle club. The cyclists were organizing a “Gun d’Alene” event to disrupt and openly assault the Pride In The Park “queers.” Firearms were seized in the motorcyclists arrests.
If law enforcement need to take actions such as the above, then yes, pride is necessary.
Our pride in ourselves!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Monday, August 29, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Making Memories #2!” This post is composed by my spouse, Aaron.
Tan-Lines:The difference in skin tone (dark/light) from the exposed skin to the covered (protected) skin.
A tan-line is a visually obvious division on the human skin between an area of pronounced paleness relative to other areas that have been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation – sunlight.
Some individuals who have tattoos on their body are committed to keeping tan-lines as they believe it enhances their sexual attraction.
Tan-line “on the rocks!”
Tan-lines are most noticeable when the person is completely clothes free (naked or nude). The reaction to tan-lines within the naturist/nudist community is often very adamant and controversial. Those who are partial (in favor of) to tan-lines, aside from enhancing their sexual appeal, also believe that the demarcation exemplifies their muscular development. Once again, helping to promote their physical appearance toward those they wish to impress.
Swimsuit tan-line!
Those opposed to the tan-lines existence feel that it detracts from their preference for nudity. It serves as a reminder of the popularity of swim apparel and the discomfort of clothing. They also agree that it “cheapens” a personal appearance.
Waist tan-line!
A prevalent misconception about tan-lines is that they don’t appear on Black people. They are just as prominent on all races of humanity. The discrepancy perhaps is caused by the lack of familiarity with the racial group and the tanning habits of the participants. Always remember: “Where the sun doesn’t shine, there’s always a tan-line!”
Tan-line buttocks!
There are some tan-line enthusiasts who wholeheartedly welcome all the attention received when exposing their tan-lines – especially while engaging in their naturist or nudist preference and confidently and flamboyantly exhibiting their evocative and provocative swimsuit favorite. They relish the notice that doing so generates. It helps to satisfy their not-so-subtle exhibitionist trends!
Thong-style tan-line!
They feel it bestows a “celebrity” status upon themselves and enhances their bare image. However, they should understand that perhaps half the attention they’re creating isn’t from persons who approve of the “picture” represented.
Frontal tan-line!
The more appropriate philosophy under such circumstances is perhaps “live and let others live.” Tolerance is a better skill practiced!
Rear tan-line!
We don’t all have to agree with the choices others may make. It is both courteous and essential that we respect everyone’s freedom to choose.
Reminder: please remember sunscreen!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Sunday, July 31, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! July, 2022”
The late same gender loving author, E. Lynn Harris
My BRAT-buddy and current best friend, Jay, and I first met one another at a bare practitioner social gathering on Saturday, January 3, 2009. Within minutes after introducing ourselves, we discovered a shared addiction: we’re both E. Lynn Harris dedicated! Perhaps obsessed would be a better description. In just a couple of hours, our introduction became an acquaintanceship that immediately evolved into a friendship that has remained “fast and solid” ever since.
BRAT represents “barely recognized as textile.” An affectionate yet sarcastic invention of Jay’s partner, Raheem, to summarize our unique relationship in today’s extraordinary world. Click the link: BRAT! to read more.
E. Lynn Harris (pictured above) was a noteworthy and popular male same gender loving author who first published in the 1990’s and tragically died in July, 2009. He was the respected talent who opened the door to the Black gay experience for millions no matter their racial heritage, gender or sexual orientation.
Avatar: Jay and Roger meeting!
Jay and I read and discuss books throughout the year – along with our our interests. For the past several years, I have featured some of those titles here. I try to do a post entry in honour of E. Lynn Harris every year during the early summer so to commemorate his birthdate (June 20, 1955) and the date of his death (July 23, 2009). I think he would appreciate this style of recognition as a justified tribute to his devotion to writing and to the reading of books..
The situation is different for this year’s reading. An acquaintance of mine, Rodney Lofton, died earlier this year. We had co-presented sessions on HIV/AIDS prevention education for the Red Cross and he was a novel author in his work. To learn more, click the link:Our Paths Crossed. Please read for more information.
I had not read Rodney’s novel since it was published in 2009. Aaron, my spouse, Jay and Raheem had never read the book at all. So our “reading group” expanded this year to include not only Jay and myself but our “significant others” as well.
Jointly reading naturally!
Jay had read Rodney’s autobiographical work, The Day I Stopped Being Pretty, A Memoir when I sent to him a copy after sharing with him my acquaintance with the recently deceased man. It was after he finished that we agreed to read Lofton’s next novel in honour of E. Lynn Harris. We both believed that Harris would be comfortable in being remembered by the work of a fellow same gender loving African-American male.
Rodney Lofton posing beside his portrait!
A likeness and painting of author and AIDS prevention educator Rodney Lofton is displayed in the lobby of a charity he served. Below is the cover of the book that is the subject of today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride.
Today’s feature cover!
No More Tomorrows is a moving and poignant love story of two men – one, Mark Jones, is HIV positive; the other, Kevin Williams, is HIV negative. It is also the story of same gender loving men living and loving in the era of HIV/AIDS. Author Rodney Lofton, himself diagnosed as HIV+ in the early 1990’s, composed this – his first fiction novel – with both insight and wisdom. This book was published on June 30, 2009.
No More Tomorrows begins at the end. Mark Jones awakes from, another restless and sleepless night that he has endured for weeks. It is when he if fully awake that he realizes that this day is his very last day of life. Twenty years after being diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), Mark spends his morning reflecting on his life and love of Kevin Williams.
Facing a life of living with HIV, Mark opts to get busy living instead of the direction to get busy dying. Whereas tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us, de decides to host his own “celebration of life” party where he meets Kevin, who becomes the love of his life. Kevin, learning that Mark is living with HIV faces his own dilemma – pursuing his attraction to Mark and “going the distance” with him or avoiding the situation altogether and safely keeping himself uninvolved.
Mark and Kevin: in love!
The subtitle of No More Tomorrows is aptly “Two Lives, Two Stories, One Love.” Kevin and Mark not only commit to a relationship together; they also develop a deep and sincere love for one another. This novel shares their bromance from beginning to end – and beyond.
Throughout the book, Kevin and Mark give their individual perspectives on their relationship and the strong bond and devotion that engulfs them. Lofton’s story is both positive and promising, even as Mark confronts his final day and dedicates a legacy for his love.
No More Tomorrows concludes with Kevin on the first anniversary of Mark’s death. This brief epilogue brings a moment of profound sadness into a celebration of love and smiles – and a tear of joy!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, July 25, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Tan-Lines: Tell-Tale Signs!”
“I Love You” handsign body painted on his bare chest!
My brother, Alex, and I are monozygotic (identical) twins. We were both conceived of the same egg inside our mother’s womb. We share all the same physical characteristics, including our DNA. We’re both ardent and enthusiastic bare practitioners. In fact, the only distinguishing physical difference between us are our fingerprints. We are both Deaf from birth.
Even our sign language (manual communication) skills are, for all intents and purposes, identical. Whether interacting in American Sign Language (ASL), Canadian Sign Language (CSL) or Greek Sign Language (GSL) – our primary language – our hand-shapes, rhythm and speed reflect minimal variation. The only discrepancy appears when professional concerns or issues transpire.
Our Deafness, along with our same gender loving nature and our preference for living bare, is a part of what makes us unique. Surprisingly for some people, it does not cause us embarrassment or shame. It is also a trait that we share with others throughout the world. It is most definitely not a reason to run and hide from others nor to deny it in any way.
Me sharing the “I Love You” handsign totally natural!
Alex and I both recall the times that while at university, we seemed to create confusion and chaos when others learned that were both gay and nudists. Many seemed to wonder how we, being Deaf, could be publicly naked. (Interesting question: all you need to do is to remove clothing)!
Others were even more obsessed with the fact that as Deaf men, how did we know that we were gay. (I guess Deaf men are completely unaware of their individual physical attraction)!
Obviously, the notion that whatever inspires the hearing population is totally useless within the Deaf community never entered their minds. After all, it is simply a much too defiant and radical concept! How can it be possible for the Deaf and the hearing to be influenced in the same way?
Deaf pride: personified!
We may have divergent methods of communication; but the emotions and feelings have very little variance. What works well for one world generally does the same for another. After all, we are all human!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Tuesday, June 21, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Summer, 2022!”
Last month, May, 2022, I published regarding the unlucky Friday the 13th myth. In keeping with the focus on June being the month of GLBTQ+ and Bare Pride, we’ll avoid the number 13 here and concentrate on the number three (3)! After all, today is the third (3) full day of Pride Month, 2022!
Fortunately, there is no numeral associated with pride. Our confidence in our community, our culture, our friends and ourselves happens whether we are alone – solo – or in a group of three, thirty or as many as three hundred. There exists no numerical threshold, imagined or real, that must be reached in order for the sensations of accomplishment, achievement, pride and success to be experienced.
Confidence in Ourselves
Self-confidence is an essential aspect of celebrating and remembering our community and our cultural pride. Our comfort in being who we are enables us to overcome any doubts or feelings of embarrassment, guilt, remorse or shame that others seek to impose upon us. In deflecting and ignoring the contempt of others we prove ourselves to be above and beyond intimidation and reproach!
A happy trio!
Happiness in Ourselves
Our smiles visibly demonstrate our contentment in being us: the who (same gender loving) and the what (bare; body and clothes freedom) nature of our lives. In accepting and acknowledging our specialty and uniqueness in this life and in this world, we show our confidence and our pride and help to prepare others for joining us without any fear or hesitation. Our camaraderie reminds others and ourselves that we are not alone.
Forward looking threesome!
Unity Among Ourselves
Despite our numerous concerns, differences, favourites, issues and values, we, as the bare practitioner community and culture stand together – united – in hopeful anticipation of our future. We embrace, rally and support the colours, images representation and spirit of the Progress rainbow flag. We go forth towards our common goals of equality, justice, tolerance and unity for all of us no matter who we love.
Progress rainbow banner!
Our strength is founded on the respect and trust that we share with one another. Our confidence and pride is the combines legacy of our past, the unity of our present and the anticipation of our future!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry proudly planned for here is Monday, June 6, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Sunshine Pride!”
In the USA, the last Monday of the month of May, annually, is a movable holiday in tribute to all those who have died in the defence of this country. Many others recognize this as Remembrance Day or as Armistice Day held on the anniversary of the cease fire ending the Great War (World War I). This is a federal holiday throughout all 50 states.
During this holiday, the USA flag is raised to half-post (for mourning) from sunrise until noon. At that hour, the flag is then raised to full-post for the remainder of the day.
In this country, this Memorial Day holiday is seen by many as the unofficial beginning of the summer season!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, May 31, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! May, 2022!”
A combination of two fun-filled words that afford us with desires and dreams and a variety of memories. In the English language, naked is joined with the word vacation and the result is: nakation! A bare practitioner’s imaginative excursion into paradise! There is no established timeline; a nakation can be one day in duration, one week or an entire month. The nakationer (nude enthusiast on vacation) makes the decisions!
The choices are unlimited and can be as complex or as simple as the amount of free time and the financial resources permit. Uncertain of what’s available? Online is accessible to offer suggestions that satisfy most needs and requirements. Acquaintances and friends can make recommendations and give advice on what to do and what to avoid. Careful thinking and common sense are also valuable tools!
“Man designs fashions. Man makes clothes. Man makes mistakes! The measure of a man isn’t based on the clothes he wears. The true measure of a man is determined bythe clothes he is not wearing. Bare is the perfection of the human body without the mistakes.” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~
Nakation relaxation!
For someone who is a newcomer to the body and clothes freedom life, the prospect may seem overpowering. Do not despair! Even with a severely limited financial status, a basic nakation can involve little more than selecting a relatively secluded location, packing food and water (or other beverage) and getting outside to spend a free afternoon in nature. Being natural in nature doesn’t necessarily require time consuming planning and preparation. Reading material (to occupy your time mentally) and ample sunscreen are strongly encouraged for everyone (no matter their ethnicity or race)!
A convenient clothing optional resort involves both money and reservations – especially during the late Spring, Summer and early Autumn times of the year. When making inquiries at the facility, always ask for any policies or restrictions specific to that particular resort. Some destinations actually prohibit same gender loving relationships from even being on the property. It is always a good idea to ask about the clothing optional status of the on-site dining room/restaurant. There are numerous clothing optional establishments that cater especially to the bare practitioner community. At these locations, a person’s sexual identity is rarely a concern or issue.
Nakation comfort: no need to “dress to impress!”
“Bare practitioners are natural inspirations!” ~ Roger Poladopoulos ~ January 6, 2022
A recent trend that is increasing in popularity are clothing/textile restrictive resorts. These places severely limit the areas and times that clothing may be worn. Some of the more stringent facilities mandate that clothing must be removed in the parking area before entry into the actual property. Be advised to question the specifics regarding these regulations. There is no need to be textile if it isn’t necessary!
Nakation together!
GLBTQ+ Friendly:
As discussed in last Monday’s April Appeal: Social Nudity (click link for connection), there is an ever-growing number of locations and resorts promoting (advertising, marketing) themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) accepting, friendly and welcoming. This attention is partly the result of discrimination endured by bare practitioners in the past and partly the result of an increasing number of bare practitioners specifically seeking such accommodations. The end result is a “win-win” situation for both the same gender loving (SGL) vacationers and the commercial establishments.
When visiting a GLBTQ+ friendly facility we don’t need to be as concerned and discreet about our status. However, as each property has different management and procedures, it is highly advised that guests inquire regarding protocols and meal-time dressing codes. Awareness and knowledge are allies in comfort and relaxation!
Cautionary note:
Regardless of the best intentions and precautions of destination management, facilities that publicly announce their GLBTQ+ acceptance sometimes attract the undesirable. There are some who stereotype our community as particularly vulnerable and weak. These individuals may not be guests on the property but they possibly monitor the entrance and exit of the establishment. It is recommended to take note of the surroundings and constantly practice vigilance.
Sunbathing!
Supplies:
Whether on nakation alone, as a couple or with companions, there are two essentials necessary: condoms and sunscreen. Keep in mind the cost of these items are usually higher at the destination rather than a local shop or store near where you reside. Condoms reduce the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A reminder to all that condoms are strongly urged for everyone involved in PrEP.
Sunscreen generally has a shelf life of at least two years. Check the container for the expiration date before departure! Sunburn on the first day of nakation can ruin the remainder of your “play-time.” Better to be safe than sorry!
Sunglasses? A good idea is to always carry an extra pair with you. Better to see than suffer from too much sunlight!
“Often, in jest or in ridicule, the textile ask of bare practitioners, ‘How’s it hanging?’ Perhaps we should respond with an inquiry of our own: ‘How does it feel, to always hide and conceal?'” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos ~ April 18, 2022
Weather Suggestions:
Perfect weather conditions for a nakation cannot be guaranteed. A suggestion is to carry along a few tools to reduce boredom risks in the event storms appear. A deck of playing cards isn’t bulky and easily fits inside an empty shoe. Another idea is a small (3 x 5 inch or 7.62 x 12.7 cm) memo notebook and a couple of pencils or pens. These can be used for a game of charades, etc. These items aren’t cumbersome nor expensive and offer unpleasant weather options.
A Gentle Reminder Notation:
As I have mentioned throughout this post entry, experiencing a nakation isn’t solely based on the destination and/or the location. The freedom, the joy and the relaxation are major aspects of the nakation opportunity. Equally important and satisfying is the enrichment of our clothes free lives. A successful nakation is the comfort enjoyed from nakedness as determined by the nakationer!
Home alone!
A nakation can be pleasurable and relaxing alone at home. It doesn’t have to involve extensive travel or endless nightmares. Whatever suits the individual is best!
Take care and stay bare!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 22, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Holy Easter/Martyr’s Day!”
The date was Wednesday, March 16, of this year. At university, a colleague brought in a newspaper from where I lived with my, the city of Richmond, Virginia. He entered my office without knocking and opened the paper and laid it across my desk. I turned from my computer screen and glanced at where he pointed with his finger. A memorial obituary for an acquaintance of mine – Rodney Lofton. He had died from complications with lung cancer on Monday, March 14, in Phoenix, Arizona.
He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in November, 2021. He was pronounced with HIV in 1993. A Richmond, Virginia, native, he returned to the city of his birth after living in New York City for several years. It was while living in New York City that he learned of his HIV status. He immediately became active in HIV+ awareness, education and services not only in Richmond but in Washington, D.C., as well.
Rodney worked to revive and then became a member of the City of Richmond Human Rights Commission. He served two terms in that position.
Rodney served on various boards and commissions nationally and throughout the states. His service in the City of Richmond, Virginia, and for the Commonwealth of Virginia (the focus here for this post), was both beneficial and profound. He was the very first African-American to serve as a senior staff person at the community GLBTQ+ advocacy group, Diversity Richmond. In this capacity he was vice-president and then deputy director. He was instrumental in opening doors previously closed to persons of colour in the former capital city of the old Confederate States.
In his time, he created the Black and Bold Awards to honour the contributions that Black GLBTQ+ persons made to the City of Richmond and to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Later, he created a similar award programme for the Latino community.
Rodney Lofton posing beside his portrait at Diversity Richmond!
In 2015, Rodney was the recipient of the OUTStanding Virginia award presented by Equality Virginia to a person who dutifully positively represented the community in the public eye.
Among his numerous volunteer efforts, he also actively participated in the Red Cross HIV/AIDS prevention education programmes. I will deliver more on this topic in the second part of today’s post here.
Rodney Lofton was the author of two books. The first book entitled The Day I Stopped Being Pretty: A Memoir was published on October 16, 2007. This memoir chronicles his life journey from childhood to adulthood in honest and riveting detail. He relates his bad times, good times and all the moments in between. He bares his soul and affords us the perspective of a gay Black male recognizing his uniqueness in the unfolding world of the “New South.”
Rodney Lofton’s first book.
His second novel was published two years later on June 30, 2009. His second book entitled No More Tomorrows: Two Lives, Two Stories, One Love. Lofton’s second book is a novel relaying the bromance and drama of two contemporary same gender loving men and their relationship. Both titles were nominated the year of publication for a Lambda Literary Award.
Rodney Lofton’s second book!
The current City of Richmond City Council unanimously passed a Statement of Tribute in early March, 2022. It was signed by Mayor Stoney and delivered to Rodney in Phoenix, Arizona, shortly before he died. In the statement, City Council noted: “Rodney served for many years as a local and national GLBTQ+ leader and compassionate voice.”
Rodney Lamont Lofton is survived by his husband, Faron Niles.
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A Personal Thought on Rodney Lofton:
As teenagers, my identical twin brother, Alex, and myself – once we understood our same gender attraction – would frequently visit the riverside park in our city, especially the “gay beach” area where we could “hang out” with our own kind. Twin and I liked the fact that we could be clothes free here while on summer vacation from our residential Deaf school. This was where we met Rodney. He and Twin became friends while Rodney and I remained acquaintances – we’d pass notes while together but that was the limit of our relationship.
Fast forward to the middle 1990’s. Due to the HIV/AIDS crisis, I became a very active volunteer in prevention education with my local chapter of the Red Cross. I worked primarily with teenagers and young adults in outreach efforts to raise knowledge and understanding among their peers. As a Deaf instructor-trainer in the Red Cross HIV/AIDS curriculum, I was frequently sought by the national organization and the various local chapters for advice and service.
I served as a co-chairman on the programme to create, develop and implement a focused curriculum for teens in HIV prevention strategies and techniques. This two-year project culminated with a four-day training conference involving 150 teenage training candidates and the project developers/educators. The name determined for the project was Teen Voice. This provided me the opportunity to renew my acquaintance with Rodney Lofton.
For the duration of the educational sessions, Rodney and I were room-mates at the facility used for the training. At nights after our sessions, we passed notes while naked in our shared room and smoking our cigarettes, expelling the smoke through our open window. Because of our note exchange, we kept the room lights on. At the reception at the end of our programme, one of our co-instructors commented privately that he enjoyed watching the two of us smoking nude in our room at night! We both shared laughter at our “exposure” at the Red Cross Teen Voice conference!
Over the nights and notes, we developed a casual friendship and an understanding of our roles within the Red Cross HIV/AIDS project. We also recalled days at the riverside park in Richmond hanging out nude and skinny-dipping in the river.
The Memorial Service
Memorial Service announcement!
I attended the above memorial service for Rodney. Twin wanted to attend but had a professional commitment that he needed to participate. There was no interpreter present so all I could do was observe the mourners present. It did me good to be there and offer my sentiments internally.
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A shared past and our shared nudity!
Rest in peace, Rodney Lofton!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next planned post entry here is for Monday, April 18, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal: Nakations!”
The image above clearly shows the necessity of social nudity!
Opening Photo Justification:
In the introductory photograph (above), our actual bare practitioner brother, adult film-star Phoenix Fellington, aptly represents the theme of this particular post here on ReNude Pride but also, along with his fellow same gender loving (SGL) adult actors, the importance and necessity that social nudity provides our bare practitioner culture. Phoenix introduces two roles in the above illustration. First, he is the only African American featured – an automatic minority. Secondly, he is likewise the only subject completely and totally naked – another automatic minority.
Mr. Fellington and his co-performing colleagues graphically depict bare practitioner reality and truth. Every one of us, every day of our lives, constitute a “double minority.” Independent of our individual race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, education, or ability, we’re all SGL. Our first minority status. Our second minority status is our naturist/nudist proclivity. Please bear in mind that our minority status may vary and reverse itself depending on each individual. Number one can become number two and vice-versa.
Thus, this one picture shows our peculiar bare practitioner perspective. Two extra “burdens” simply because of who we are. Our representational responsibilities in addition to our respective individual considerations. This image conveys the significance of social nudity to us all as bare practitioners.
Thank you, Phoenix Fellington and your fellow SGL film performers for your awareness education of our dilemma. Please inform your associates they can now strip off the clothing items they’re wearing and get comfortable!
Flexing their arms while naked together!
“Being a bare practitioner in no way adequately defines us yet it is indeed a fun way to accurately describe us!” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos
Social Nudity:
“The extent or level of our bare involvement is frequently immaterial. The overwhelming majority of naturists/nudists engage in social nudity whether they recognize the action as such or not. We are human and we are a social being. The simple acknowledgement of another’s nakedness constitutes social nudity.” ~Roger Poladopoulos ~ April 11, 2022
Introduction:
Fortunately, social nudity has only two simple qualifications. First, of course, is very basic: our nakedness. The second is almost as simple as the first: it includes at least two nude individuals interacting with one another. That’s it! Basic. Plain. Simple.
There’s no restriction on the type of interaction that happens. We can read together, play cards, perform tasks for pleasure, play tennis, go jogging, skinny-dip, lay in the sun, paint or engage in board games or sew. We can walk or skydive. We can even just sit and converse with one another. As long as we’re bare, casual, relaxed and together (social). Quantity is unimportant and familiarity isn’t a prerequisite.
Social nudity allows us to introduce ourselves and to become acquainted. We can transition from acquaintances into friends. We can evolve and grow from friendship into a relationship and beyond.
There are no stringent guidelines and the possibilities are endless!
Siblings proud to be socially naked together!
“Social nudity is the exotic exuberance of an excellent fashion extravaganza: our nakedness!” ~ Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos April 11, 2022
Ramifications:
Bare practitioners are a friendly, happy, helpful and quite often marginalized group of people. Hence, our “double minority” status. General society, primarily textile (clothes wearing) and judgmental, regard us with both disdain and disgust. Far too often, we are misjudged as nothing more than perverted individuals because of our preference for the clothes free lifestyle – our being naked together is determined as positive proof that sexual pleasure is the only reason that we are collectively nude. All that we supposedly desire is unlimited sexual license!
The above scenario is a common myth transmitted among the fashion-obsessed majority to ensure their continued dominance in society. True, there are some naturist/nudist people who enjoy clothes freedom mainly for sexual engagement but the overwhelming number of us bare practitioners simply prefer being without the burden of garment wearing. Our bodies are us and we relish being free and natural!
A basic truth!
We, as humans, are generally a very congenial, social species. We like being around interacting with others we perceive as being similar to ourselves: bare or clothed. As a bare practitioner, I am comfortable and relaxed while in the company of other bare practitioners. As a Deaf man, I am completely at ease in the presence of others who are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). This is based on human nature and is a fact shared by all of us, regardless of our clothes choice (naked or textile).
Naturists or nudists are humans, first, who readily accept and identify themselves as a comity (group) of like-minded individuals who appreciate their uniqueness in the broader world. As humans, we are we are content and willing to interact and socialize with those who share our inclination. It is easier to establish compatibility and trust with persons who are most like ourselves. Once again, human nature prevails.
Flexibility:
The only essential or basic requirement for social nudity to transpire is that body and clothes freedom must be shared. Therefore, the minimum number of people involved must be two. After all, company determines interaction. Yet flexibility reigns supreme and there is no limitation on the maximum number involved. The quantity of the crowd is endless and is solely restricted by the amount of space available. The often repeated folk adage: “the more the merrier” is entirely applicable in the case of social nudity. Naked together is the guideline!
To be perfectly honest, mandatory and/or obligatory nakedness is not an essential standard in order for social nudity to occur. As long as the textile people present accept, appreciate, respect and understand that the freedom from clothing prevails then the social nudity affixation is both earned and justified.
The optimal belief and premise that covering our bodies or hiding beneath clothes is totally unnecessary!
Naked truth!
As bare practitioners, most of us are employed in a workplace that embraces, and requires, the wearing of clothing – if not a uniform! We accept this reality. However, away from our job we are on our own in fulfilling our lives and circumstances. Body and clothes freedom – our choice, our life, our time – is one aspect we need not compromise. Social nudity (voluntary association with our “own kind”) is both a need and a relief from the stress of everyday living in a distinctly different reality from the acceptable “normalcy” of the vast majority. Our own special haven (heaven) in an otherwise chaotic and fashion-focused world!
In addition to our endorsement of social nudity, as bare practitioners there is another major reason for our encouragement and support of clothes freedom. Not only are we judged by our nakedness by the textile world, within our own naturist/nudist community we are also deemed unacceptable and unwanted by fellow clothes free people due to our same gender loving – bisexual or gay – status. This homophobia isn’t as prevalent or pronounced as it was perhaps twenty years ago, but it still exists and remains within our natural collective. This is one aspect of why we use the term “bare practitioner” instead of “bisexual naturist” or “gay nudist.” For many, the words bisexual and/or gay imply sexuality over attraction.
Social nudity: all together!
There is a growing number of body and clothes freedom establishments and resorts that are now promoting (advertising) themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) accepting, friendly and welcoming. This marketing strategy is underway in order to create more tolerant environments for their guests as well as to ensure the quality of business and it appears to be operable.
There are a few misconceptions regarding the heading: social nudity. A large number of people, no matter there clothing choice, think only in terms of a “party-like” atmosphere exclusively. Actually, social nudity encompasses much more than that. Discussion groups, reading and/or book clubs, athletics, dramatic clubs, hiking groups, garden clubs, etc., all qualify as pertinent to social nudity.
Skinny-dipping!
There are a countless number of SGL naturist/nudist participants who limit their engagement to social nudity activities only. When alone, they aren’t concerned whether they are bare or clothed. They are just as comfortable wearing garments as they are without. It appears as though they only indulge with nudity when they are with others who have no strong bonds or feelings with nakedness unless it is in a total party environment.
My spouse, Aaron, and I sometimes chuckle among ourselves over this seemingly oblivious indifference towards body and clothes freedom. Our humour over the matter possibly derives from our obsession with the state of our nakedness and their apparent lack of concern. Another clear example of the variances of human nature. What may be of paramount importance to one is relatively insignificant to another.
The bottom line being yet another folk adage: “to each one, his/her own!”
A Point To Ponder:
Naked and not quite naked!
The above image begs a question that very few seem to have an answer. Social nudity is widely considered to be a situation where everyone is nude and interacting. However, what if the case is different. If one of the persons is bare and the other is partially or totally textile. Does social nudity still apply? The naked individual is being social through his interaction with the other, who happens to be clothed. It isn’t a completely nude situation, but is the label applicable in a mixed situation? A final thought to ponder today!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 15, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Our Paths Crossed…!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 