Purple: Spirit Dayis officially observed on the third Thursday of October, annually. This posting entry is offered in anticipation of the official observance!
On the Progress Rainbow Pride flag, the colour of purple at the bottom of the original rainbow field of six stripes represents the ideal of spirit. The colour also denotes pride and is considered a calming colour. It also connects us to the spiritual realm. For a great many of us, this is symbolic of our reflective nature and signifies the soul of the GLBTQ+ quest for our equality and freedom. In the United Kingdom and throughout the Commonwealth, purple is a royal colour and often is representative of the Crown.
Purple: Spirit Day is an annual anti-bullying, anti-coercion date that is held during National Bullying Prevention Month. It is particularly focused combatting damaging or threatening behaviour based on a person’s perceived or real same gender loving status. The Stonewall Inn Riots (SIR) of 1969 and the National Coming Out Day observance that commenced on October 11, 1988, reduced the suicide rate among the GLBTQ+ community and culture but it was never completely eradicated as a cause, even with the millennial transition.
A significant increase in GLBTQ+-related suicides committed not only raised the awareness of this problem within our community and culture but also in the minds of the general public. Clearly, more attention and efforts were necessary.
The commemoration of Purple: Spirit Day began on October 20, 2010, at the advocacy and inspiration of one Canadian teenager on her FaceBook social media. It is an awareness day of recent development in response to a USA suicide that gained international attention. On September 22, 2010, eighteen year old student Tyler Clementi, of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA, jumped to his death from the George Washington Bridge over the Hudson River. On September 19, Tyler’s roommate, Dharen Ravi, had posted to his Twitter social media account a clip showing Tyler kissing another man and announced to all his followers that he is gay. All of this was done without the permission of Tyler or his encounter partner.
Purple: Spirit Day!
The resulting media explosion that followed the suicide led Brittany McMillan, a secondary school student in Canada to respond to her conscience and launch the Purple: Spirit Day campaign on her own. The concept was undertaken by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) who immediately assumed sponsorship after consulting with Brittany.
Promoted by GLAAD, participants wear the colour purple as a visible sign of awareness and support for GLBTQ+ young people and opposition to bullying (for whatever reason) in general. It is also a gesture in tribute to all GLBTQ+ victims of suicide.
Cartoon in support of GLBTQ+ Purple: Spirit Day!
The very first Purple: Spirit Day was held on Wednesday, October 20, 2010. Later observances were on Thursday, October 20, 2011, and on Friday, October 20, 2012. After that time, GLAAD enacted the official date of the thirdThursday in October as the annual occasion.
For those persons restricted by requirements of uniform, a purple awareness ribbon may be worn to show agreement with the cause. If a pre-printed purple ribbon isn’t immediately available, a plain one suffices. Use a regular safety pin to attach the ribbon to your collar or shirt.
I remember the very first Purple: Spirit Day. Aaron, my spouse and I were simply living together at the time, and there wasn’t much notice given in advance of the first occasion. We decided to make purple ribbons to distribute on our jobsites promoting the cause and spent the night before staying up late to create the awareness tokens. We assorted 150 ribbons for each of our jobs. By mid-morning the next day, we exchanged emails and we had both given out of ribbons!
Supporting Purple: Spirit Day!
For bare practitioners the event may be signified by painting a purple ribbon on the left side of the chest. It is important to promote attention to this worthy cause!
For additional information on Purple: Spirit Day! please click onto the link below:
The title of this posting here on ReNude Pride and the accompanying “rainbow flag” images are at the insistence of my beloved spouse, Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos. His choice is based on his determination of the song “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland in the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz” as being a unifying factor for the entire GLBTQ+ Bare History Month culture. To be honest, he all but ordered me to follow his selection! Out of my devotion to him, my need for a nutritious breakfast and my appreciation of all of his contributions to this site, I have complied with his instruction.
As a Deaf man, I do wonder about the song portion of his choice and in the interest of family harmony, I’ll surrender to his decision. After all, “mine is not to reason why, mine is but to do or he’ll make me die!” LOL! Naked hugs! 🙂
As for the pictures featuring the rainbow flag, I totally agree with my “better half.” As they all depict a bare practitioner man with the flag, they ensure compliance with the purpose of ReNude Pride: celebrating our same gender loving naturist/nudist heritage and community and our shared confidence and pride in being what and who we really are!
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Background:
It is generally recognized by all concerned that the modern civil rights struggle for the majority of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ people began with the Stonewall Inn riots following a police raid on the Stonewall Inn gay bar in New York City on June 28, 1969. This action, in the militancy of the political times, led to the growth and protests that encouraged our forebears to begin advocating for our freedoms and our long-denied human rights.
Given the number of groups and causes proliferating in the 1960s, our previously closeted (secretive) community emerged from anonymous and silent to militant and radical, even vocal. Various groups and individuals came together with the intent of organizing a body to become instrumental in determining the guidance and leadership of our growing struggle for equality.
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Our Story:
As a population with almost no formal structure aside from local municipal concerns, the initial building of a communal harmony and unity was disorganized and haphazard. Communication was infrequent and often by chance. The commitment and dedication of the early and emerging prominent individuals in the equality movement varied from city to city and fortunately enough of the “first few” proved resourceful in building a dynamic leadership that allowed our cause to develop and grow.
Despite the chaotic and confusing inception, it soon became apparent to many of the early GLBTQ+ advocates to the benefits of and the vital need for a visual emblem or a logo for identification and/or recognition purposes. It was agreed that a colourful graphic banner or flag would better serve this function as opposed to just writing the name on a placard.
A variety of concepts, designs and suggestions were made and presented to the ever-changing leadership individuals and/or organizing committees. The most popular and long-lasting ideas are featured below along with a description and/or justification for each submission.
Our time is here!
The Rainbow flag!
The year, 1969, was at the end of a decade that had witnessed massive social unrest. The African-American protests for civil rights, the birth of the feminist and women’s rights movements, the demonstrations for ending the Vietnam war, the equal pay for primarily Latino immigrant farm workers were underway during this time. The elimination of the military “draft” (enforced military service) and unequal financial compensation were also targets. The “homosexuals” (at the time, a derogatory and offensive identification of the now GLBTQ+ persons) was the most recent social group to clamour for equality and recognition.
The Pink Triangle:
The downward-pointing pink triangle was prominently used by National Socialists (Nazis) in Hitler’s regime as a badge of shame and labeling of “homosexuals.” It was sewn onto the shirts of homosexual men in concentration camps to identify and dehumanize them in the eyes of the authorities and other prisoners. Other concentration camp inmates routinely lashed out against all prisoners wearing a pink triangle.
Homosexuality was made illegal in Germany under Paragraph 175 of the unification constitution in 1871, but the law was rarely enforced. It remained so until it was repealed in 1969. When the Nazi Party assumed control of Germany in 1933, they made it enforcement a priority in their goal of promoting the Aryan people as superior to all others in order to racially and culturally “purify” Germany. The Nazis arrested thousands of GLBTQ+ individuals and sent them to concentration camps. the overwhelming majority of them homosexual men. They were all seen as degenerate.
The rise of the gay, lesbian and bisexual pride movement led to the reclaiming of the pink triangle as a positive symbol of self-identity and of triumph over tragedy. In 1994, the German government formally apologized to all persons for the abuse committed against same gender loving persons throughout the country’s history, especially by the Nazis.
The pink triangle remains a strong symbol of GLBTQ+ progress towards equality and represents the journey forward worldwide. It is a tribute to all of those persecuted under bigotry and hatred. The flag is recognized globally.
The Lambda Flag:
As a symbol of same gender loving freedom from centuries of discrimination, oppression and torture, the Greek letter lambda was first designated in December, 1969, as a symbol of distinction by the graphic artist and Gay Activists Alliance founding member, Tom Doerr. He chose it because in chemistry it is a sign for “catalyst” as for the complete exchange of energy.
Others argue that the lambda denotes the synergy of the growing same gender loving movement. The idea that the whole is greater than the sum of all of its parts. Still others claim the lambda is representative of lesbian.
In December, 1974, the lambda was officially adopted by the International Gay Rights Congress at their meeting in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK, by a unanimous vote. As a representation of gay and lesbian civil rights, lambda became internationally accepted, popular and recognized.
By far, both the pink triangle and the lambda remain dominant and prominent within the GLBTQ+ community and culture today. Historically, they are the two “firsts” in our community and culture.
The criticism of the lambda emerged later as some felt it was symbolic for males only.
The Rainbow Flag:
The original Rainbow flag!
What many of us herald as the first official flag of our community and culture was first publicly raised on June 25, 1978, in San Francisco, California, USA, at the city’s United Nations Plaza in honour of the 1978 San Francisco Gay Freedom Day parade. The original flag consisted of eight coloured stripes and was designed by Gilbert Baker and handstitched and dyed with the help of friends and volunteers Lynn Sugarblum, James McNamara, Glenne McElhinney, Joe Duran and Paul Langbutz. The eight stripes were later reduced to six with the pink (denoting “sex”) and turquoise (for “art and magic”) eliminated as the colours were not available in flag fabrics.
The colour scheme!
The graphic above shows the revised eight-stripe flag reduced to six stripes and what the coloured stripes each represented.
Baker conceived the flag would “empower his tribe” and at the same time reflect a “rainbow of humanity” motif to represent the movement’s diversity.
Current: The Progress Rainbow Flag!
Moving forward in progress!
The Progress Pride Rainbow flag was developed by non-binary artist and designer Daniel Quasar in 2018. Based on and incorporating Gilbert Baker’s 1978 Rainbow flag, Quasar’s redesign celebrates the diversity of the global GLBTQ+ community and culture and encourages a more accepting and inclusive general society. The redesign has invested the representation of discriminated minority identities covered by the GLBTQ+ umbrella.
Quasar’s creation placing black and brown stripes (symbolizing peoples of colour) and light blue, pink and white stripes (representing transgender and non-binary persons) in the shape of an arrow-head all pointing to the left of the Progress Pride Rainbow flag’s in the image of “forward progress.” In Daniel Quasar’s own words: “…the pointed arrow to show forward movement and illustrates that the progress towards inclusivity still needs to be made.”
The black stripe has a double meaning attached to it as it is also intended for “those living with HIV/AIDS and the stigma and prejudice surrounding them as well as all those who have been lost to the disease.”
The Progress Pride Rainbow flag was an immediate success. On the evening of June 6, 2018, Quasar posted the design on social media. He woke up the next day to find that it had gone viral.
Progress Pride Rainbow blowing in the wind!
We continue our way into the future by remembering our past. We are all together as we move forward!
Naked hugs!
Roger Peterson-Poladopoulos and Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, October 16, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Purple: Spirit Day!”
In the USA, October, annually, is featured as GLBTQ+ History Month. During this time, outstanding gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ persons, both current and past, are honoured for their achievements and contributions to their communities and culture’s history as well as to services rendered to history and to society in general. The image above offers the facial representation of some of this year’s winners.
Artistic interpretation!
The USA observance was founded in 1994 a Missouri secondary (high school) history teacher named Rodney Wilson. His original intent was to provide role models, build community, instill pride and to provide a civil rights statement of the achievements and efforts of the entire GLBTQ+ community and culture. Prior to the Stonewall Inn Riots of June 28, 1969, there was little, if any, information about the accomplishments and struggles suffered by the previously-known “homosexual” community in the USA and elsewhere in the world. Before the Stonewall uprising, it was the custom for the members of this community to remain closeted (anonymous, secretive).
“There was no gay pride before Stonewall. Only gay fear and gay isolation and gay distrust and gay self-hatred.” ~ Edmund White ~ USA gay novelist, historian
Gay rioting outside the Stonewall Inn, New York City, June, 1969!
For many, the Stonewall Inn riots marked the beginning of the movement for same gender loving (GLBTQ+) civil rights in the USA. However, in retrospect, it is now recognized as the catalyst (inspiration) that encouraged the community and culture – long abused, discriminated against and ostracized – to adapt a more activist approach in the journey towards equality and freedom.
Because of the existence of GLBTQ+ History Month, there are now forums, historical foundations and societies and institutions themselves dedicated to examining and exploring the topic and others within the community and outside. This is one of the many benefits not only of the Stonewall Riots but also of the observance of our community and cultural history.
The Stonewall Inn Historic Site!
The very first commemoration of GLBTQ+ History Month was endorsed by the Gay Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), Gay Lesbian Students Educators Network (GLSEN), the Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the National Education Association (NEA), and other national organizations.
Equality Forum is a national GLBTQ+ civil rights organization with an educational focus. It coordinates GLBTQ+ History Month, produces documentary films, sponsors high impact social initiatives and sponsors an annual GLBTQ+ civil rights conference. It also maintains the GLBTQ+ history month website which is linked below.
Below are listed the 2023 honourees. The number of the individual is the date they are honoured. Click the link above for additional information.
Marin Alsop – trailblazing conductor
Chasen Buttigieg – GLBTQ+ activist
Madeline Davis – GLBTQ+ activist and historian
Elana Dykewomon – author and activist
Tessa Ganserer – transgender German politician
Roxane Gay – author
Lesley Gore – composer and singer
Miss Major Griffin-Gracy – transgender activist
Brittney Griner – WNBA superstar
Maura Healey – Governor of Massachusetts
Jazmine Hughes – editor and writer
Eddie Izzard – British actor and comedian
Michael R. Jackson – Pulitzer award playwright
Leslie Jordan – actor and comedian
Tina Kotek – Governor of Oregon
Marijane Meeker – pulp fiction pioneer
Scott Minerd – Wall Street innovator
Ryan Murphy – writer, director, producer
Carl Nassib – first out active NFL player
Stu Rasmussen – first out transgender mayor
Allen Schindler, Jr. – slain naval officer
Charles Silverstein – psychologist, activist
Andrew Solomon – writer
Michael Stipe – rock performer
Kara Swisher – tech journalist
Andre Leon Talley – fashion journalist
Doris Taylor – medical scientist
Evelyn Thomas – military activist
Mpho Tutu Van Furth – South African Anglican priest
Samira Wiley – actor
Penny Wong – Australian foreign minister
As is our standard here on ReNude Pride, we combine the best of both of our bare practitioner exceptional qualities and celebrate all of October as GLBTQ+ Bare History Month. This observance will feature both our same gender loving heritage as well as our bare pride and heritage. Ours is a culture and life that needs to be honoured and saluted in many ways throughout not only the month but all year long!
Please take time and explore interesting facets of our historical community and culture! Happy GLBTQ+ Bare History Month to all!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, October 2, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Return to Regularity!”
Before anyone is too shocked to recall, my university is located in a neighborhood of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Therefore, as faculty and students at a university founded by President Lincoln and the first university funded entirely by the U.S. Congress, we are absolutely not permitted to be natural, naked or nude while instructing or delivering lectures. Nor are students permitted to attend classes unclothed.
The above image is used to maintain the theme of ReNude Pride and not to create a myth or rumour concerning a university precedence. Tolerance is a policy at my university but being realistic is also. Far be it from me to be the unwilling source of a mislead! The government is the best suited for that distinction!
Classroom seating!
Although clothing is required, the academic regimen of the university resumed this week. Whether in a formal lecture hall or in a more traditional classroom, it is now the time for me to set aside my “summer freedom” and return to work in order to prepare another group of students to take over the responsibility of preparing others to come forward and prepare themselves for all their roles in their lives.
Before everyone condemns my university as too restrictive, I do want to remind that although body and clothes freedom is not “officially” endorsed, it also is not outright banned or condemned. I did serve as a nude model for art and photography classes as an undergraduate. That allowance continues today. So freedom isn’t completely forbidden here!
A naked grin on a bare practitioner role model!
One of the benefits of a university faculty member is that we have the responsibility to honestly convey information to others. My university administration and fellow faculty members have always encouraged any of our same gender loving students as well as those who openly acknowledge their affinity or interest in nudity to share with me and proceed from there. This has presented to me the opportunity to dispel myths and misinformation and to offer guidance and direction towards discovery and guidance. It enables me to enjoy the freedom to make a positive and, hopefully, productive influence in the lives of others.
Granted, the undergraduate interest in gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer+ (GLBTQ+) concerns, issues and topics far exceeds the search for bare practitioner related circumstances, but that is routine. Once students deal with their sexuality, the nude/clothing situation usually is resolved and guidance is sought on an individual rather than group session.
This advisory role, in addition to my professorial duties, gives me satisfaction on the campus/worksite. I feel as though I am serving a constructive and useful purpose not only for each student I interact with but for my colleagues, too! A number have shared with me that I have afforded them the opportunity to serve as mentors to others who seek answers or help.
Bare class instruction!
Officially, nakedness and nudity – at least, publicly, – is not permitted on campus. The same is probably true for the majority of institutions of higher learning throughout the world. However, patience, tolerance and understanding of our roles in guiding the development and formation of our charges (students) has created here an environment that is accepting, beneficial, comfortable and tolerable for all!
Mini-Lesson: Bare Practitioner!
A bare practitioner is a same gender loving person who willingly releases their body, mind and soul of the frustrations, tensions and unnatural compulsions of always having to hide beneath the oppression of clothing. A free spirit, uncensored and uncovered, in a completely natural state!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, September 11, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Bare Aquatic Antics!”
Reign: Unashamed on Bare Practitioner’s Day, 2023!
TODAY IS BARE PRACTITIONER’S DAY, 2023!
July 14, annually
A day for us to celebrate, honour and salute us for being ourselves!
We’ve just completed the entire month of June as GLBTQ+ Pride Month. We’re now observing Nude Recreation Week. Do we really need a Bare Practitioner’s Day to supplement the festivities? Is our ultimate goal an entire year of commemorations and/or occasions? A thoughtless retort to such a ridiculous suggestion is: Yes!
Is it necessary to question our every reason to enjoy being us? Are we all in danger of having such unfulfillment in our lives that we need to exploit opportunities to extol our characteristics that have created us in the uniqueness that we all enjoy? Unfortunately, in today’s world, the possibilities of our being denied give us little alternative.
A bare practitioner is a person who openly (without reservation or shame) accepts and acknowledges being same gender loving (bisexual or gay) and a naturist/nudist. Confident and proud, a bare practitioner endorses the community and culture shared by all, free from judgment and prejudice. Bare Practitioner’s Day is our day to celebrate, commemorate and dedicate to all of us being ourselves! We respect this for everyone and expect the same in return!
Gio Dell, oceanside bare practitioner!
The majority of us bare practitioners (same gender loving naturists/nudists) openly acknowledge that our way of life – freedom from embarrassment, guilt, humiliation or shame for being same gender loving and body and clothes free advocates – is nothing that any of us need to conceal. It is what and who we basically are. It is our right to be ourselves. Throughout history, society has deemed us as being perverse. We have been ridiculed, punished, denied equality and even attacked and beaten because of who we are. Therefore, culturally we have all earned the right to be and celebrate ourselves!
Equality for all!
For all of those persons who find discomfort in being bare around others, we all accept their level of comfort and their need for clothing. We may not understand – yet we concede their right to be different. For all of those persons who are unable to comprehend our affection and attraction for our same gender, it is our reality. We don’t share the same feelings but that’s fine. All of us have the right to be different!
Varying levels of physical exposure!
What is of primary importance is that we tolerate and understand these variations in our levels of comfort and respect everyone’s right to be who they truly are. If an aspect of someone else’s life makes us uncomfortable, we can choose to avoid that person or that situation.
Felipe Ferreira and his Pride tattoo!
There are various ways of expressing ourselves and conveying our beliefs and ideals to others. The degrees that we select to expose ourselves vary from person to person. Each person has the right to determine their own level of comfort in sharing their nakedness and sexuality with others.
How can love be a basis for hate?
We may not approve the message but we must recognize the variety that others employ to demonstrate themselves. The public displays of affection have many followers all at odds with one another.
Happy Bare Practitioner’s day, 2023!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Saturday, July 15, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Nude Recreation Week: Weekend!”
Kory Mitchell, HIV testing advocate, bare practitionerand gay porn-star!
With almost forty years into the global HIV/AIDS crisis, we still are having to survive the reality that we remain without a cure or a vaccine for HIV/AIDS. This disparity exists while we face even more unusual and unknown infections that offer similar if not more deadly consequences.
We do have an accurate and inexpensive test to determine if we are HIV infected. This knowledge is important because if affords all of us the time to adjust our routines, adopt practices to enhance our lives, engage in protocols to reduce complications and to effectively manage our lives. Yet almost a third of persons living with HIV remain unaware of their health status.
Their lack of knowledge puts many of us at risk for contracting the virus.
Increase your power!
Once again, it is important for us to remind everyone of today’s significance. Yes, we are all living through these days of coronavirus COVID-19 epidemic. However, we all need to remember that we are also living during the days of HIV/AIDS. Our health is an issue we need to address!
HIV: Basic Facts
HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.
AIDS is the result of an HIV infection.
Only a physician can diagnose AIDS.
AIDS is not transmitted (spread) by casual contact.
Friendship does not spread HIV!
There is currently no cure or vaccine to prevent HIV/AIDS. However, since the early 1980’s, we have made remarkable progress in the treatment of our HIV-infected populations. Despite this, as a nation, the USA continues to decline in the service provided to persons living with HIV.
Racial disparity!
Testing provides us with the knowledge to seek treatment and to take the process that allows us to manage our lives.
Happiness is knowing your HIV status!
Take the test.
Know your HIV status.
Control your life.
Encourage others to do the same.
Risk reduction!
Kory Mitchell: Productive steps!
Openly same gender loving film actor, Kory Mitchell, was among one of the first gay porn stars to test HIV+. Upon learning of his status, he immediately became an advocate for information, knowledge and for testing to all others in his industry and also within the general bisexual and gay communities. He serves as an example for all of us to take the “next step forward!” We salute your commitment, Kory Mitchell! Thank you for all your efforts in HIV prevention education and in testing!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is scheduled for tomorrow, June 28, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Pride: SIR!”
Pride Month celebrants with traditional Rainbow flag!
June is the widely accepted month for GLBTQ+ Pride!
Background:
The evening of June 28, 1969, is considered by many of us as the actual “beginning” of the modern equality movement for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer + (GLBTQ+) persons and their inclusion within society. It is the date of the Stonewall Inn Riots (SIR) in New York City, USA. This is the recognized event that launched the ongoing struggle for acceptance, equality and recognition of one of the longest and most oppressed community and cultures of humanity. Despite the more than 50 years since, the fight for acceptance, equality, recognition and survival remains valid for many even today!
Dr. King quote!
The observation of the late Reverend Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., remains a respected and and shared value of the GLBTQ+ communities and cultures.
In honour of the SIR, June is internationally considered as GLBTQ+ Pride Month in dedication to the lives sacrificed for the causes of freedom and justice that multitudes seek.
As ardent bare practitioners (same gender loving naturists/nudists) both my spouse, Aaron, and I observe the month of June, annually, as GLBTQ+ Bare Pride Month. Our reasoning for this endorsement is, hopefully, obvious to all!
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The current Progress rainbow flag of the GBLTQ+ Community and Culture!
A more informative post entry of the SIR event of June 28, 1969, is planned for the actual date of that occasion. I feel that we should all remind ourselves of the situations that initiated the necessity of those riots. One of the many reasons that our community and culture celebrates our pride is to prevent the past from returning ever again!
Our PRIDE is enjoyed by all!
Why should we have a GLBTQ+ Pride Month?
After centuries of condemnation, denial, judgment, oppression and ridicule, the arrival of the 1960’s introduced people – globally – to an ideal of honesty, openness, and the expectation of equality for all. World War II united humanity an a conflict against subjugation and tyranny. Human rights became a concept of universal acceptance rather than a lofty distant dream. Millions had sacrificed and suffered against hate and totalitarianism. Freedom and justice moved from the status of a hopeful goal to the acceptance as a reality of life.
The 1960’s in motion!
Throughout the decade of the 1960’s, African-American, Hispanic-American, Indigenous peoples, women, farm workers and countless others emerged demanding acceptance, freedom and equality. The movement to halt the Vietnam War gained importance and international attention. Same gender loving people became one of the last “degraded” communities to join the exodus for the end of discrimination and restriction.
Creative Pride observance!
It doesn’t matter how we celebrate our pride in our collective membership within our GLBTQ+ community and culture. It is more important that all of us strive and work to enjoy, experience and to feel our confidence and pride in being the person that we truly are!
Vintage image!
Many of us grew in environments that were critical, hateful, and judgmental against our community and culture. We lacked companionship and support – especially during adolescence when it is most needed – and only later realized our full potential. Now is the time for us to collaborate and develop our resources to eliminate this situation from recurrence!
Happy GLBTQ+ Bare Pride Month, 2023!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for tomorrow, Friday, June 2, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Bare Pride!”
The purpose of this post entry is to educate, encourage and remind us all on the benefits and health values of sunscreen. This post is published here annually and is constantly updated to offer new alternatives, ideas, suggestions etc. Please use the “comments” application for any concerns. Thank you!
If anyone has specific questions, consult your local health care provider or their assistant. Some solutions or resolutions may be available online. Otherwise, check with your local pharmacist or health agency.
Tyson Kobe: skinny-dipping pool exit!
Introduction:
Allow me to explain the title. I am in no way encouraging anyone to actually put on any article of clothing! That is simply not in my nature as a dedicated bare practitioner. What I am referring to by the title here is to remind us all – myself included – of the vital importance of the use of sunscreen whenever we go outdoors. No matter the length of time in either the direct or indirect sunlight; sunscreen is essential in the preservation of a healthy and protective skin covering!
While we’re reviewing the topic, another piece of information that is often overlooked. Sunscreen is equally important in the wintertime as it is during the summer! The UV rays from the sun are definitely not a seasonal spectacle. Unlike our nakedness, the UV rays do not hibernate!
During the colder seasons of the year, no matter which hemisphere one resides, the sun’s rays are reflected and intensified by the snow and ice. The use of sunscreen remains necessary on all exposed areas of the skin. Failure to do so may cause severe consequences.
Beach visitation!
In the Northern Hemisphere, the 2023 Summer season does not officially begin until June 21, annually. This also happens to be the absolute longest day of sunlight within this particular hemisphere. Due to the excessive amount of daylight on this date, in some countries, especially in continental Europe, it is also observed as Naked Hiking Day. The logic for this activitybeing the longer the natural daylight lasts, the greater the length of time for hiking clothes free! Now that we have noted Europe’s special designation, the USA claims it deserves equality.
In 2023, in the USA, the Memorial Day holiday (a three-day weekend) falls on May 29. This is the day on which the USA honours all the war dead. This holiday is also considered – at least in the USA and Puerto Rico – as the unofficial start of the summer season.
Confused? I am, too! That’s the reason why here on ReNude Pride we follow the official commencement of the 2023 summer: June 21!
Sunscreen spray!
Justification:
For many persons, the summertime is synonymous as the legendary season of “fun-in-the-sun!” No matter which date one prefers for the arrival, there’s no denying the fact that warmer outdoor temperatures and longer periods of daylight are here. This means that the textile (clothed) folks are wearing less and that we bare practitioners are, as usual, nude. If we’re able to survive the winter naked, why expect anything differently from us during the summer?
It stands to reason that most (if not all) of us, bare or otherwise, are outside more than we were a month ago. While we are outdoors, we’re all exposing more of our skin to the sun’s rays. This baring of ourselves in all of this sunshine is a welcome change and relief from the barren dullness of winter and the colder temperatures.
In our eagerness to get out and frolic in the fresh air and warmer weather, many of us forget one of the basic rules of outside freedom and health: skin protection! We all need to cover up (protect) our skin before we uncover any part or all of our body. This protection entails the use of an appropriate sunscreen applied correctly, adequately (sufficient quantity) and, when necessary, reapplied diligently.
Using sunscreen allows most of us to make the most of whatever opportunities our summer plans may offer. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from sunburn and other conditions of sun ray excess or worse.
Sunburn!
Sunburn:
Sunburn is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and not heat. It is important to remember that multiple layers of the skin can burn even on overcast or cloudy days, cold winter days and while under shade (shelter from direct sunlight). Sunburn damages or destroys the skin, which controls the amount of heat our body retains or releases, holds in fluids (hydration) and protects us from infection.
Reactions to sunburn range from mild irritation to serious pain. Sunburn may cause fevers and nausea (depending on the severity of the burn) and makes the dead skin peel away. Sunburn may lead to serious health complications later in life.
Sunscreen product!
Sunscreen information:
The information below is very general and is offered as a guide to use in selecting the type of sunscreen that’s best for personal protection. Keep in mind that every individual is just that, an individual: a unique person. What is applicable for one may or may not be the same for another. When in doubt, consult a health practitioner. It’s better to ask questions now than to suffer later! Please remember that everyone may or may not be allergic to certain ingredients contained within sunscreen.
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a chemical that, to a certain degree, prevents UV (ultraviolet) radiation in sunrays from reaching the skin. While there is no product that totally eliminates UV radiation damage, many variations, when used properly, can and do protect the skin adequately.
What should I look for in a sunscreen?
Regardless of where the sun activity is taking place, backyard, ball-playing field, park or beach, etc., the product should contain two elements for effective protection. Always look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen that contains chemicals that block or prevent both UV-A and UV-B radiation from penetrating the skin surface.
While no product is completely waterproof, select a “water resistant” type that is designed for long-lasting wear, especially if swimming or sweating. Choose a variation that is both easy to apply and feels good on the skin. There are numerous commercial brands available: creams, lotions, moisturizers, gels, sprays and solid stick types.
What is SPF?
The initials SPF refer to the phrase: sun protection factor. It is the measure of the effectiveness of the sunscreen in absorbing UV-B radiation. If someone sunburns after about 10 minutes of sun exposure, using a product of SPF15 extends the amount of time before sunburn occurs to 150 minutes or two-and-a-half hours. After this time, it should be reapplied to continue protection.
In terms of percentages, a product of SPF15 blocks 93% of the UV-B rays. One of SPF30 blocks 97% of radiation and one of SPF50 blocks 99%. The difference in protection may not justify the added expense of higher SPF sunscreens.
Sunscreen application!
What is the best sunscreen for me?
This depends on many factors, including age, skin type, racial identity, gender, activity, time of day, location (proximity to the equator) and the UV index. For most skin types, a sunscreen with a minimum SPF15 is recommended. Mem with fair or lighter skin tones (of all races) and low sun tolerance (burn easily) should use a SPF30. For minimal sun exposure, 90 minutes or less, a moisturizer cream may suffice (with correct SPF level).
For extended periods of sun exposure and higher activity engagement, use a longer-lasting product such as a cream, gel or lotion. Spray (aerosol or pump) are beneficial for hairy parts of the body, including the arms, the armpits, back, chest, legs and the pubic region. If a person is acne-prone, choose sunscreens that are oil-free or non-carnodegenic.
For persons with sensitive skin, the chemicals in some sunscreen variants may cause skin irritation. Use a product that contains only physical blockers (zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide). A physical blocker does not penetrate the skin layers as do chemicals. Physical blockers stay only on the skin surface to provide protection.
Applying sunscreen to his partner’s back!
What’s the best way to use sunscreen?
If you’ve used sunscreen before and received a sunburn, it was either a) applied incorrectly, b) the wrong SPF, c) a very cheap deviant, d) insufficient amount of sunscreen, or e) expired product. Before purchasing a sunscreen product, check the expiration date. Verify the SPF level with your particular needs. Make certain that the instructions for the use of the selected variety of sunscreen are with the product.
For sunscreen to be effective, it must be in sufficient quantity, applied correctly and thoroughly applied prior to sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen as instructed following the recommended timeline.
Remember the lips! Use a lip balm with a minimum SPF15!
How much?
One ounce (the equivalent of a full shot glass) per adult per application is the minimally recommended dosage for the average person. Apply liberally all over the body, including behind the ears, on the ears both edges and ear lobes. Everyone should remember to apply sunscreen in the armpits and behind the knees.
When to apply?
Sunscreen should be placed on the body – entirely – at least 30 minutes before going into the sun. Reapply approximately 15 minutes later. The extra initial application helps to ensure that all exposed body areas have been covered, including those that may have been missed the first time. Once in the sunlight, either directly or indirectly, repeat the application process according to the instructions or at least every couple of hours, especially if swimming, perspiring and/or towel drying.
Helping his partner cover his body with sunscreen!
Who should use sunscreen?
Everyone needs skin protection. All races and ethnicities are susceptible to sunburn. Men with darker skin complexions may have a higher tolerance for sun exposure but at some point, will begin to experience sunburn. Bear and bare in mind that skin damage and serious, sometimes fatal, complications later are a result of the failure to protect the skin.
Do darker-skinned people need sunscreen?
Within the Black-toned and Brown-toned skin communities, it’s a common misconception that their melanin-infused (darker skin tone) skin completely eliminates the necessity for sunscreen as protection. Yes, darker skin does protect from some UV rays, but all persons, regardless of their skin tone, need to wear sunscreen.
For a long time, all races believed that the darker complexions of persons of African and Middle Eastern ancestry/descent were fully protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Despite the fact that darker skin tones have greater genetic protection than fairer/lighter skin tones, everyone has a natural deficiency.
At minimum, human skin needs at least an SPF30 for full protection from UV rays. Black people, on average, have at least a deficit of about SPF17 because their only offers a protection level of SPF13.
What does the expiration date mean?
Sunscreen usually remains effective and stable for a period of three years. After the expiration date, the contents (ingredients) will begin to decompose and will not offer the intended protection. Always check the expiration date before application. Discard any product that is past the expiration date!
For the bare practitioner/naturist/nudist:
Apply sunscreen to the entire body. This includes the anus, armpits, penis and testicles (both front and back). Follow the reapplication guidelines every couple of hours. Body areas that may not receive direct sunlight absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation indirectly.
Manscaping (body hair removal), no matter the method used, creates sensitive areas on the skin surface. First apply a gentle body lotion, wait 15 minutes and then cover with sunscreen.
Sunglasses!
Eyes:
It is extremely important to wear sunglasses to prevent harmful UV radiation from damaging the eyes. Select a pair (and a spare) with UV filtering lenses.
Summary:
Summer is a naturist/nudist paradise for a variety of nudecentric outdoor activities: aquatics, athletics, barbecues and cookouts, events, festivals and socials. It is also a time for quiet solitude such as gardening, hiking, reading a book outside or a casual stroll along a nature trail. No matter how we choose to spend our leisure time, proper prevention against sunburn and other skin damage ensures all of us freedom from concerns over sun exposure. One less worry as we go about our business of having fun in the sun!
In adhering to the above practices, protocols and our own common sense, we’ll all be able to look back in the autumn and know a good time was had by all!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, May 26, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Skinny-Dip Duo!”
The month of April, annually, is the first full month once Spring arrives. In keeping with the promise of the rebirth and renewal of our natural habitat, there are two events in April that afford us all the chance to join with others in renewing our local world.
Arbor Day is observed nationally on April 28, 2023. Arbor Day is most often celebrated by a public tree planting according to municipal custom and needs. As growth patterns vary from state to state, individual communities frequently host the local events without national fanfare. Arbor Day enables preservation of one of our most vital national resources: trees!
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Seashore clean-up!
Earth Day: April 22, 2023!
Earth Day was first observed on April 22, 1970. The event seeks to raise the level of environmental awareness globally and it is thus far, successful. It focuses on the various adaptations and innovations that not only improve our quality of life but also impact our physical surroundings – earth and nature – in a positive and productive manner.
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Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 10, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “April Appeal!”
As published here this past January, 2023, the time is now rapidly approaching for the arrival of the Spring season here in the Northern Hemisphere. As I announced in my earlier post entry, my spouse, Aaron, and I have discarded the custom of “New Year’s resolutions” and have implemented the making of Spring Resolutions. One of the primary reasons for this adaptation is the weather – Spring is much more compatible to the adherence to life changes than the barren and dull season of Winter!
Todays post entry serves two purposes. First, as a reminder to those who endorsed the concept of the seasonal resolutions to begin their planning. Second, if you tried and were unsuccessful in your New Year’s promises, it is not too late to try again now. This attempt may be more productive than the one before!
Resolved…
After time at work or at play, it is good to sit, relax and consider any improvements needed in our daily routines. Any new experiences to help us develop and grow? An opportunity to enrich our lives or an activity or interest that may benefit our personality? Any habits we need to discard or a new skill that we need to acquire?
Follow up these thoughts and considerations by prioritizing our list. Which is the most rewarding? What do I need in order to accomplish this? Is one success dependent upon another? Careful and deliberate contemplation increases our chances of bringing reality into our dreams and goals. It enables us to create a path to follow in order to complete our journey. It empowers the ultimate success of our Spring, 2023, resolution.
Spring begins on Monday, March 20, this year. Hopefully, this notice posted here today provides ample amount of time for us to think, plan and implement all the changes we want to achieve!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry planned for here is Friday, March 17, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “St. Patrick’s Day!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 