Mayhem: A state of disorder or riotous confusion. Havoc or uncertainty.
That is absolutely a description of the theme of this month – unfortunately, today is only the fifth day of a thirty-one-day May! What will happen next? This month is usually one that is relatively predictable and set. It is the ending of the Spring semester at university and allows me the commencement of my “all-too-brief” Summer holiday!
Notation: The above situation was presented by a colleague of mine to her class. With her permission, I “borrowed” the theme and developed the post entry here today.
What is happening?
Is 2025 destined to be a totally unfortunate and completely unlucky year? The reason I question this is that the final days of our academic year are nothing except chaos and confusion—beyond any sane expectation! The official ending of this semester doesn’t occur until 15 May, so the madness isn’t even over yet!
Normally, the ending of the scholastic year brings no “last minute” changes in our routine. As faculty, our final month is fairly routine: grades due and plans due. This year, the last month contained one surprise after another and all with the due date of 15 May – no exceptions.
This year, there was an outstanding exception to every expectation of normal and routine. And not just in my school, but throughout the entire university. It was as if the administration was giving awards to which school, department or division could render the most disruption possible!
The school where I’m a professor implemented a review of curricula and evaluations during the month of September 2024. Fine. Not a problem. The goal, as explained to all of us, was to revise, update, and modify the offerings within a three-year period. There were no complaints from any of us as the process was most definitely long overdue. That was the last the subject was addressed with us.
Then, the end of March, 2025, it was announced that the entire revision of our school was due by the end of the academic year! The middle of May of our current year! What happened to our timely and coordinated efforts? Why the rush?
Totally clueless!
Needless to add, pure pandemonium followed. That, in turn, was then followed by anger, more anger, frustration, then anger (again) to be followed by fury! Those were the reactions on the “good” days!
Flexing and fists!
That issue was slowly resolved by the end of the month of April. No one is actually certain as to how all hell came into being, simply that the original resolution deadline of September 2027, implementation was returned. The threat of fist fighting on the faculty level was diminished!
We’re continuing to wait for a more detailed explanation as to what precisely caused the serious mismanagement of the change process. Someone blatantly miscalculated their professional position and the professional reaction to their error.
Celebrating a return to normalcy!
In the meantime, the “rank and file” of the university – us, the educators – have resumed our anticipation of a summer of freedom and fun, maybe not in that order!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, May 9, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Canada and USA: Mother’s Day, 2025!”
Today’s post entry here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! is based on the original narrative poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, “The Charge of the Light Brigade” in tribute to the tragic heroes of the Battle of Balaclava in the Crimean War (1854 – 1856).
This posting is in anticipation of the wild rush to skinny-dip (swim naked) once the warmer outside temperatures begin to thrive! It won’t be a very long wait – hopefully!
Please understand that there is no disrespect intended towards any of the valiant cavalry or defenders of the actual Balaclava participants.
Half a league, half a league,
Half a league onward,
All into the beach
Ran the six hundred.
“Forward the Bare Brigade!
Charge for the fun!” he said.
Into the beach
Ran the six hundred.
“On Dasher and Dancer,
and Prancer and Vixon!
On Comet and Rudolph…”
Oh no! Wrong poem! Also, the terribly incorrect season of the year! Sorry for my mistake! The beach scenery just got me too excited!
The consolation is that bare beach days are almost back in season here!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Wednesday, April 30, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! April, 2025!”
A selfie with a complete view of his being bare! The response to the Posing Bare series here on ReNude Pride has been both rewarding and surprising for both Aaron, my spouse, and me! Originally planned as simply a two-post segment for January, 2025, it grew and developed beyond our imaginations! The results energized us both to expand the series; Aaron now is addicted to finding new photographs/prints to add to his collections.
Today’s offering is focused on the “selfie” – self-photography that increases in popularity with personal phone usage – and some issues resulting from selfie posing. Selfies present their own challenges but they do involve “fun” while posing! The fun continues after posing when sharing the images with acquaintances and friends.
A facial selfie!
Today’s offering is focused on the “angle-pose” (our term to describe the pose which includes the face plus enough of the body to show nakedness). Aaron’s selection of the selfie is based on the ever-increasing number of selfie photographers, especially within the bare practitioner community, even though cameras remain “officially” discouraged if not outright banned from the majority of clothing optional facilities and properties.
The prevalence of the cell phone with its camera in our current society is causing many of those stalwart camera opponents within the naturist/nudist world to threaten the growing number of cell phone proponents. This situation isn’t resolving itself amicably. Soon, one of the two groups will demand the wearing of clothes as a just punishment! Seriously, I am being facetious here but who knows?
The differences of opinion between the two groups have not reached the conflict level at this time. However, hostilities can erupt without any warning!
A tongue becomes involved
The facial features obviously enhance and enrich the distinction this type of appearance contributes to both the audience that views the photo as well as the subject/photographer. It adds “personality” to the image that otherwise would possibly be routine. It adds quality of life and allows the viewer to question the thought processes of the selfie creator!
We chose the recommended pose for today because not everyone, even the most enthusiastic and seasoned bare practitioner is entirely comfortable with their male anatomy being publicly featured. The uncertainty of where the pictures will be shared enters into the concern and it is a valid consideration. This particular pose that is featured is popular but one of the most difficult to capture as a selfie.
It is a complexity to achieve the angle and depth to exemplify the nakedness of the subject and the completion of the pose itself. The discretion of the subject increases the appeal of this particular pose while simultaneously delivering the message of being bare without being blatant!
The selfie-style photo within arms reach provides the user with immediate image taking choices, while at the same time it does offer some restrictions. It limits the options available and it also reduces the depth and expansion of the pose. The inclusion of the face along with the image removes the possibility of bare body freedom.
The wearing of glasses in general, sunglasses in particular, presents the possibility of reflections being visible to viewers. Being aware of this may be reasons for abandoning any visual enhancement while creating selfie images.
Lounging!
The use of a tripod or a unipod with a camera device mounted resolves some of the limitation challenges encountered with selfies. The tripod offers options that expand both depth and nakedness being featured in the images. The only caution is the self-timing ability and returning to the intended pose. An often unmentioned advantage is the fact that all unwanted pictures can be deleted!
Tripod advantage: depth and body visibility!
The use of a unipod and/or tripod helps to expand the range of selfie photography and offers options for capture. It also enables the appearance of acquaintances, family and friends in the images. This expands the subjects and allows an increase in the posing possibilities. These improve the messages and the situations the photos convey to viewers.
A note of warning: any support that you provide for your camera also increases the “background” likely to show in any pictures. Keep in mind what may be visible to your viewers!
Posing options!
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The Dilemma!
Disappointment!
My spouse, Aaron, and I were both equally excited about the upgrades that we announced this past Friday here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! We were eagerly awaiting the reactions, both bad and good, to the home page! However, since last Friday, it has been disappointment and frustration all the way.
The deletions of some of the secondary pages here was denied. Some of the photo “widgets” were unable to be deleted and a new “header” image was denied.
I have tried for several hours during Saturday to amend and/or to substitute the intended alterations. Nothing seems to work towards our satisfaction.
Therefore, it appears that for at least now, the revised Home page here is what is already visible.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 18, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Great and Holy Easter, 2025!”
The header (opening photograph, above) is being used here in order to capture the attention of followers, readers and visitors. If I had placed my initial image here as the header, the majority would have “rolled their eyes” or “shrugged their shoulders” while thinking: “What, again?”
Now, the camera gets the attention as everyone prepares to pose. But the attention is what is desired as this posting is a notice of changes here on this site. Innovations that both Aaron, my spouse, and I hope you’ll appreciate! The intended purpose/goal/function of this post entry was originally to announce and introduce a completed, new Home page here for ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! The intention was confronted by reality, time restraints and the facts that ability and creativity are not always compatible according to dreams and plans.
Some of the changes covered here have already happened. Others may be modified and implemented gradually over the next two weeks. Hopefully, the entire ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! renovation will be complete by the end of April, 2025!
Almost all the text below was written before my “surprise” birthday event this past weekend. Rather than update and recompose the entire post entry, I am improvising, inserting and asking for your patience and tolerance.
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
No, I am absolutely not losing my mind and becoming overly redundant! There is a very specific reason for intentionally publishing the above picture of Daniel Shoneye (left) and his friend/partner with their arms interlocked around the trunk of a palm tree. This particular photo is now incorporated here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers as representing my spouse, Aaron and myself.
Why? First, because Aaron and I are a biracial couple – he’s African-Canadian and I’m Greek. Second, I previously explained the reality of a Deaf person “linking arms” as opposed the communication restriction of “holding hands.” Most Deaf people “talk” manually instead of vocally. In this image, their arms are linked so their communication isn’t impaired.
Third, we’re both bare practitioners – same gender loving and our preference is our nakedness. The same is evidently true for the couple under the palm tree above! Fourth, we are a “tropical” couple: better a palm tree rather than a fir tree or a barren one! Sunshine and no snow!
Addendum: 9 April, 2025: Another discussion between the both of us has brought us to the decision that the below photograph will now be our “official” representative image for this site. Aaron had “second” and “third” thoughts about the proposed replacement (above). He convinced me to his ideas. We both admit to being aquatic-oriented as opposed to tree focused!
Dress code compliance: bare nakedness!
The title here is another change that has already occurred. We are now (officially): ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! My first blog was named A Guy Without Boxers. Now that we are legally married, in deference to our legacy, we have reclaimed not only commando status (no boxers) but some ownership of our history. Also note that we are now a plural identity, “guys” as opposed to singular “guy.”
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The Gravatar
ReNude Pride gravatar!
Above is the current gravatar (signature image) for ReNude Pride. It was designed by Aaron (my spouse) and has been in use continuously since January, 2017. The triangular rainbow (GLBTQ+) outline which was based on the concentration camp badges the Nazis forced the homosexual inmates to wear. The buttocks aptly represent nakedness. The theme for this site has always been same gender loving nakedness.
A Guy Without Boxers gravatar!
The emblem above was the gravatar used for my first blog here on wordpress.com, A Guy Without Boxers. It is visually explanatory as no boxers, thus no underwear, was allowed. Underwear, the first item of clothing adorn, hence without it, one was bare, nude, naked!
As to the emblem that will best reflect the new title for this site: ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! , Aaron and I are still debating. Initially, we were both inclined to abandon the concentration camp symbolism due to the Palestinian Genocide and Holocaust committed by the zionists in Gaza, Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, friends of ours, both Jewish, have argued that the brutalities are the acts by the civil government and not approved by all Jews.
Aaron and I continue to discuss changing the gravatar. We both agree that if we do revise, we’ll revert to the original A Guy Without Boxers design rather than create a new one.
One idea is to post both the gravatars together from now until the end of summer, 2025. On that date, delete the triangle and utilize the “no boxers” exclusively. At the very least, we’re publicly sharing that likelihood to all now.
Addendum: 10 April, 2025: As of this moment, we have agreed to now retain the gravatar for the ReNude Pride site. We’ll continue to utilize both images whenever necessary.
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Deletions
We’re deleting the secondary listings page and the recent posts listings sections. The secondary pages section and the recent posts are rarely used throughout the year. The Home page layout automatically shows the five (5) most recent entries and this elimination deletes duplications and opens “extra” space.
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Photo album similarity!
Unfortunately, our Home page has acquired a very striking similarity to a featured photograph album since January, 2017. The majority of the images are random and unrelated except for depicting clothes freedom and same gender love. A few pictures and/or graphics convey the identical messages and/or themes without appearing too gaudy!
Hopefully, implementing these changes will significantly reduce confusion and congestion here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! Our goal is to present an orderly and organised appearance that is both attractive and colourful.
Seasonal Adjustment Addition:
The final (last) widget featured on the left side of the Home Page here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers will be a seasonal graphic/photograph reflective of a life of nakedness and pride in the Northern Hemisphere. The first one represents: Spring!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 14, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Posing Bare #4!”
The month of April – for us Northern Hemisphere inhabitants – annually is the first full month of the Spring season! This short month (30 days) does not officially share a single day with any other season, ever! Thirty complete days of springtime. Now, weather may differ as we possibly may endure a few days of outdoor winter-like temperatures. Our consolation being that summer and warmer days are soon upon us all!
Retired gay actor, Francois Sagat, of Algerian-French heritage serves as our “host” here on ReNude Pride for this post-entry feature. In addition to being publicly same gender loving, he also prefers nakedness instead of clothing – even though after his retirement he designs, models and promotes his labelled men’s sensual intimate garments. We are overjoyed to include him in our bare practitioner community and culture! We welcome here with us on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers!
Francois Sagat returns home after working out!
He strips off his commando-style gear!
Below his waistline!
Totally clothes free!
Now that he’s back home, Francois focuses on getting comfortable which means that all his cumbersome burden of clothes are off his body. He is a solid and toned example for all of us of healthy living and physical fitness! He provides living proof that body and clothes freedom is indeed “fashionable” for each and every one of us, no matter our age! In the header series of images (above), he reminds us that fashion is always best: r-e-m-o-v-e-d!
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Francois Sagat: jogging along the shoreline!
In addition to affording us a “live” demonstration of the etiquette of stripping (removing) our bulky and uncomfortable clothes, Francois now aptly presents us with another “live” scenario of a deserted beach activity early is the month of April. Instead of allowing the natural space to waste away, he gives us glimpse of keeping current in exercise, fitness as well as promoting nakedness!
Refreshing his breath after his jog!
An early jog along the sandy shoreline allows him to maintain circulation, to strengthen muscles, and bolster his mental health outlook – and to burn any excess calories! It also helps to encourage others in awareness of our bare practitioner culture through visual inspiration!
Attracting the attention and the curiosity of others!
In taking a “breathing” pause, if he encounters a spectator along his route, Francois enables interaction should there be any questions about clothes freedom and or same gender love. Even today, conversations shared at countless social nudity gatherings involve such basic topics as “How did you learn of our group/network?” Casual acquaintances rarely tire of conversations involving there early encounters with nudity!
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Francois Sagat was born in France on 5 June, 1979. He began filming pornography in France with Citebeur Studios before moving to USA and working with Raging Stallion Studios. In 2008, he signed exclusively with Titan Media studios who he retired from.
One aspect of Francois is totally unique. He shaves his head! The “full” head of hair is actually one complete tattoo!
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Francois Sagat stretching!
Not only is our man, Francois, satisfied with the results of his fitness routine, he’s anxious to share the total project: his nakedness! He rotates allowing us an examination and inspection of what he has to offer, clothes free and unobstructed. As bare practitioners, we admire the man and appreciate his efforts! Thank you, Francois Sagat! A true inspiration for bare practitioners everywhere!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, April 7, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “ReNude-A-Thon!”
Before anyone types a nasty note for me, his hands are arced into a shape of the human heart. Clearly a representation of affection and love! Why focus on affection and love in April and not February which is when we have Valentine’s Day? The reason is simple: I love April! I love Spring! I love Aaron, my spouse! And he loves me! As a footnote, both Aaron and I were born during the month of April – different dates and different years!
As a reminder, we’re both advocates and enthusiasts of nakedness! Bare practitioners from head to toe – bare, commando or clothed! If you haven’t already, we cordially invite you to join us in our body and clothes freedom endeavour!
A “new” pictoral representation of Aaron and myself: an interracial couple!
When Aaron saw this photo, he immediately approached me with the idea of using this to represent the both of us here on ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! I felt the same except I would prefer more of the palm fronds (leaves) visible!
Me bare in a public park in early April!
April is also the first full month of the Spring season here in the Northern Hemisphere. We’re also heat and sunshine addicts – another reason to appreciate the commencement of this month! At last, the bleak, boring, drab winter landscape is now dissipating and our natural surroundings are now slowly reappearing with the brightness and colours of the fresh season!
Yours truly at the LBJ Memorial, GW Parkway!
The beginning of Spring often provides chill, cool mornings that are not the best time for posing bare. This monument is covered by shade for most of the morning hours and I remember how cold it is until the early afternoon! As our outdoor weather temperatures begin to rise, we bare practitioners increase our “natural-in-nature” outings! More fun for everyone!
Flexing together!
The month of April is compatible with our bare practitioner identity – especially our cherishing of our nakedness, both privately and socially. Optimum skin, minimum covering! Bold and proud!
Not warm enough – yet!
We observe the arrival of April simultaneously with the beginning of Spring. It is early in both the new month and the new season. The external water temperature may not invite our indulgence now, but we’re prepared to enjoy it in the foreseeable future!
Happy days are here, once again! Welcome April! Welcome Spring!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, April 4, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “April = ReNew + ReNude!”
Today is the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary, Mother of God)! This is the date selected for the uprising against the Ottoman Empire that culminated with freedom for the Kingdom of Greece!
Bishop Germanos raised the flag of revolt over the Monasery of Agia (Saint) Lavra on Pelopannesa on this date, March 25, 1821.
Come and join us! Bare, of course!
Royal Guard (Ivzoni) raising the national flag!
Greece!
The flag’s symbolism!
`Opa= Greek expression for excitement, salutation, joy, surprise, greeting, and impressive!
A contemporary man posing as an ancient Greek warrior!
One popular and eternal, longstanding myth is that the ancient Greek army fought battles while totally naked. Even though the culture was very accepting and embraced public nakedness and same gender affection, especially for men, the army always wore at the very least a loincloth.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, March 28, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Commando? None For Me!”
In an examination and exploration on the policies and practices of race and racism in the United States gay porn industry, The Pink News, a GLBTQ+ news service in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth, interviewed Race Cooper, a Canadian subject of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Race had worked several jobs at a gay porn studio, the last being as an actor which he retired from in 2014. In the interview, Mr. Cooper could not appear naked. He opted for appearing shirtless, as close to being nude as possible!
Theinterview was exceedingly popular. Curiosity concerning USA racism in the gay pornography business generated a sizeable audience! Race’s interview was informative and insightful!
While he was acting in films, Race Cooper posted online at Blogger.com. I honestly am unable to remember the exact title of the blog. I discovered the site shortly after he made his film debut in 2009. His blog became a personal favourite of mine and many other followers. Race had the distinct habit of keeping no secrets from his fans and followers, consistently posting of his experiences with his fellow actors, both flattering and…real!
His descriptions and observations of their intimate abilities and their anatomical attributes made his blog a success for multitudes and a regular “must read” for not only his fans but his peers in the film industry as well!
Race was often reprimanded by studio executive for his blog as being “too revealing!” A typical Race answer: “Yes! I reveal! You pay me to be naked! You expect me to reveal! That’s why I sell movies. People by the porn to watch me reveal!”
Race: animated interview subject!
Race’s writing skills hastened to dispel the stereotype of the gay porn actor as all effeminate, egotistical, “flakey” and self-obsessed. He wasted no time denying his preference for the “bottom” role and he openly and rigorously advocated for equality for Black gay performers in pay, ratings and in roles offered!
Background:
The topic of “race” extends beyond the limited concepts of just Black people and White people. It includes all of us, no matter our skin tone, ethnicity or racial heritage. Race, unfortunately, is also aligned with community, culture, politics, religion and value systems, and beyond!
Regrettably, racism (discrimination and/or hatred) is often a “learned” (taught) behaviour – usually passed down from one generation to the next – without any basis of proof or scientific fact. Unchallenged, it is frequently misunderstood as the “norm” – the routine standard.
ReNude Pride published a post entry here, Race On Race, two years ago on 6 March, 2023. Click the title to link. My spouse, Aaron, and I both offer this expanded version of that posting in the hope of overcoming our need to be reminded of the importance of this reality into our lives. For this reason, ReNude Pride does not restrict the issue or topic of race exclusively to the period of Black History Month.
Race Cooper, casual!
Introduction:
“Race Cooper” is the stage name – performance name – (pseudonym) of Joseph Ross Anderson, a talented and thoughtful star of same gender loving (SGL) – bisexual or gay – pornography and outspoken advocate for bare (naked/nudist) rights, sexuality rights and racial equality. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on 5 December, 1973.
Amazing, he didn’t begin his film career (porn) until 2009 – he was 36 years old! An age when many openly gay porn actors are considering retiring from performing live! In the same year that he launched his film performing, he began blogging on blogger.com about his newfound job as appearing in gay porn and his encounters with his fellow performers. He very quickly acquired notoriety as “a-man-who-tells-it-all!”
He also became a very spirited advocate for the expansion of the gay sexual identities to encourage the acceptance of versatility (both alpha and beta) as an option. This was especially relevant as actors were often limited in the roles they were offered professionally because of sexual labelling.
Additional realities of Race Cooper are summarized below:
Race gives a fellow a kiss!
Race Cooper
Birthname: Joseph Ross Anderson
Birthdate: 5 December, 1973
Birthplace: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Height: 6 ‘ (183 cm)
Weight: 180 lbs (82 kg)
Hair: Head: shaved
Body: armpit, pubic, natural
Sexuality: Gay
Sexual position: Versatile (preference: beta)
Clothing status: Bare
Porn acting career: 2009 – 2014
“I’m an African-Canadian. Growing up in Toronto, I got to see how lots of White Americans reacted to Black people. Working in gay pornography in the USA, I personally saw how Black men were treated by White men with no difference between gay or straight.” ~ Race Cooper ~ Pink News Interview
Race Cooper, based on his personal experience in the SGL pornography industry, views racism as “a daily constant in the USA.” He initially began working as a casting director for the exclusively SGL studio – Raging Stallion – before he moved to performing in front of the camera lens. He readily acknowledges that he was paid considerably less than his White peers and regularly and repeatedly had his work ethic and intelligence questioned by executives – all White. He honestly believes that he was only hired initially in order for the studio to appear “less racist.”
Race: film star!
“Homophobia and racism in the USA is the reasoning for discrimination and prejudice. It is part of the legacy of slavery. In Canada, race is just a difference. You shave your pubic hair, I let mine grow naturally. We’re both gay men, we’re just different in some ways.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News
Author’s Notation: Another aspect that both my spouse, Aaron, and I have in common with today’s interview subject, the talented Race Cooper is our appreciation of body hair, abundant (profuse) or sparse. In the above quote, Race references his keeping his pubic hair natural. Gay men have the option to either remove retain their body hair. It is their decision. We just prefer to let it all grow!
Canada had slavery in the 1600s only. It was never a permanent institution like in the USA. As a slave, you were bought, you worked a couple of years, earned your freedom, and then you moved on. Like an indentured servant. Enslavement was never a source of distrust and hatred. You worked, earned freedom, and then became a neighbor – equal – not inferior or subservient.
“As a Black gay man, I know and have witnessed bias, hatred, and prejudice because of nudity, race and sexual orientation. It is unfair and unjust. It is wrong. As a performer in the gay porn industry, I’ve never experienced criticism for being publicly or for being socially naked. But I do know of fellow nudists who are judged because of their nudity. Clothes freedom is part of who we are. Just like race and sexuality, we don’t have a choice.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News Interview
The interview with The Pink News Service was conducted as part of an investigation on racial inequality in the USA gay porn industry in conjunction with the killing of the late George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. Although a Canadian subject, his years involved in the gay porn career and living in San Francisco, California, USA, provided Race with both foresight and history.
He also wants the gay porn industry to openly admit that many White men – straight (heterosexual) – have been cast into roles designed for SGL African-American men with no regard as to the impact on gay Black actors.
Race on race!
As a path forward, Race advocates the studios hire “diversity mentors” to help with casting concerns and issues as well as advance the careers of porn actors of colour. He also pursues for the ending of the “gay-for-pay” policy of movie studios and for the immediate cessation of the policy that allows studios to terminate the careers of HIV+ actors.
In the conclusion of his interview with The Pink News, Race offered – in my own humble opinion – his most daring and profound argument against bigotry, discrimination and judgment based not only just upon race but sexuality and nudity as well. This statement was made on his own initiative and observation and not in response to a specific question.
“I’ve made numerous naked appearances at gay studio event socials. The newcomers to our profession are often intimidated by us who’ve been around. Usually, fellow Black actors are gathered, made to strip out of their apparel and to parade through the White guests who are fully or partially clothed only to be ridiculed, teased and tormented and not allowed to get dressed until the social is done.” ~ Race Cooper ~ The Pink News Interview
Race Cooper: contemplating!
Joseph Ross Anderson (a.k.a. Race Cooper) has undeniable and unique experiences that qualify his assessments and observations on the existence of racial practices and stereotyping within the gay pornography profession. It is important to note that these judgmental instances are not restricted solely to the gay porn business. They occur frequently and regularly throughout the USA in both personal and professional circumstances.
His perspectives on the effects of racism are determined not only from personal experience but also from shared observations with not only African-Americans but other Black Canadians. These reflect learned behaviours that are repeated, without thought, endlessly with little or no consequence. The sad reality is that these occasions of discrimination and marginalization happen not only against Black people but against others of a differing heritage than White Americans.
Will the effects and energies of Race Cooper have any impact on the tolerance of racism in the growing gay porn industry? One positive result is that the actions are now bringing closer media attention to the matter. That publicity is not going to disappear or evaporate overnight. Studio executives and their investors are “less” than pleased when revenue is affected and negative focus is generated.
The levels of consciousness raised when issues of racial impropriety are addressed benefit not only African-American performers but also others of varying racial, ethnic and social abilities. The fact that inequality was applicable in one instance justifies the question: “How many more suffered the same?”
Not a consideration studio executives want pursued!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 24, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Stories!”
Up until this post entry here on ReNude Pride, our encouragement has been to continue posing alone. The purpose of this recommendation/suggestion was to gain and increase awareness of a) what an individual is able to accomplish in front of a camera lens and b) what poses (angles, locations, positions, etc.) look and work best for oneself, personally. It also increases our experience being the actual subject in a photograph.
Online time simultaneously!
Now, it is reasonable to assume we have someone special (close friend, bromantic interest, partner, etc.) that we trust explicitly and confide this project and our involvement and… our selfies! If there is perhaps an additional friend to include, that increases the chance for “fun” and success of this phase of the project. Remember the adage: “the more, the merrier?” Those words prove to be accurate and true!
My friends, Kalvin (left) and Darren (right)!
Myself and Kalvin posing!
My friends, Darren and Kalvin, join with me in posing while Aaron, my spouse, operates the camera. All of us posing and with a camera potentially leads to trouble! Selfie images remain appropriate, so a separate photographer isn’t an absolute essential but it is a beneficial option and resource. That person can either be the photographer or join in with all for posing! One thought of advice, keep the number of persons involved in the project manageable. Too many participating and the focus and purpose become obscured!
The increasing of at least one additional person affords us a larger range of considerations and ideas for activities to engage and a selection of poses. It presents an opportunity for us to interact and to react and to lose the “statue” effect that solo posing sometimes conveys.
An outdoor mixed message!
Advice: Inviting others to join with us in posing does present us with the need for a careful review of our pictures. Some poses may be misinterpreted as being more provocative or more suggestive than others. This caution advice is offered to eliminate a potentially embarrassing moment! Better safe now than sorry later!
The bottoms-up! poses, shown above and below, illustrate the advice caution offered in the previous paragraph. For some, the above picture implies or hints of a possible intimate (sexual) interaction whereas the image below this paragraph is of buttocks in a more casual and neutral pose depicting simply buttocks!
Buttocks: an urban view!
For many persons, professional models to amateurs who are adjusting to posing bare (such as we are doing here), posing one’s buttocks is less stressful than facing the camera lens directly. Buttocks are a common anatomical feature for both genders although they do vary from person to person. The majority of people are basically comfortable posing their buttocks rather than their personal genitalia.
Our spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington!
ReNude Pride’s very own celebrity unofficial official spokes-model, Phoenix Fellington, shares with us an observation on posing bare. A reminder that Phoenix is not quoted here attempting to recruit future porn performers,he is offering insightful inspiration on the advantages of posing bare!
“Posing naked is an ideal way to strengthen your body self-image and to impress others with your confidence and poise.” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ openly gay pornography actor ReNude Pride spokes-model
Hands joining them together!
The trio pictured here have no problems with being photographed with others of different ethnicities/races nor are they uncomfortable revealing their genitalia on camera. Even today, in the 21st century, there remain persons who have issues with those conditions. It is unfortunately more common than one would expect.
A person’s body language can and often does convey messages to viewers. In the trio, their hands join them together and all three have jovial smiles on their faces. The information shared may or may not be understood by the individuals posing. Many times, a person with a prejudice against another fails to recognize this aspect about themselves. Awareness of this trait in others helps us to prepare for any situation that may arise.
Anticipating potential concerns when inviting others to participate in posing projects enables us to have different options available as possible solutions.
Engrossed in reading!
The sibling duo above are too “busy” or engrossed in their reading. Their being naked becomes a secondary consideration for them both and to those looking at the picture. The primary thought for many is: “What is so important/interesting?” Again, the action shown (reading) detracts from the plainly visible nudity. An item as simple as a book attracts and captures the attention of others!
The more common, everyday and routine nude posing becomes, the less sensational it seems to be. It begins to lose the uniqueness many want to award it!
Author’s Notation: There may be a “Posing Bare: Part 4” supplement posting. I have a draft for the posting I just need more possible content.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, February 14, 2025,and the proposed topic is: “Cupidity!”
As we entered into the 21st century, alarming, distressing, and potentially fatal statistics continued to confront us all as the HIV/AIDS epidemic grew in both intensity and number globally. Here in the USA, African-Americans constituted slightly over 14% of the total population, yet they represented almost 50% of all categories in HIV/AIDS-related statistics reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The disproportionate impact indicated an approaching catastrophic outcome.
The first two decades of the HIV/AIDS crisis, in addition to the ignorance and neglect of then-president, Ronald Reagan, was likewise ignored and condemned by African-Americans as well. The blame and cause of the disease was the “white homosexuals and their sinful ways!” At long last, Black Americans were able to point their fingers at the White community and condemn them for “inventing” a disease that was fatal.
By this time, it was evident to all – health professionals, legislators and in particular, the American public – that more decisive, effective and resourceful actions and measures were needed to combat the alarming rates of infection with HIV/AIDS.
In 1999, concerns and fear over the effects of the disease on the Black American population led the CDC, the US Public Health Service, executive representatives of nationwide organizations serving African-Americans and communities of faith met to address issues with the rising infection conditions. One of the results of these meetings was the decision to observe February 7, annually, as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD).
With excitement, athletic and celebrity endorsements, fanfare and media attention, the very first NBHAAD was held from coast-to-coast on February 7, 2000.
Subtle manner!
HIV Infection:
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, is transmitted (spread) from one person to another through contact with one or more of four (4) human body fluids. These four fluids are: blood, semen, vaginal fluid breast milk. Other body fluids such as tears, saliva, mucus (congestion), urine do not spread HIV. Remember the four: blood, semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk. Avoid all contact with those four body fluids.
Any contact with one or more of these body fluids contact your local health department immediately for treatment! The earlier treatment begins, the greater chances are for success.
Latex, a synthetic material, has been proven repeatedly to significantly reduce (lower) the risk of HIV infection. Latex is used to make condoms and gloves because it prevents the exchange of bodily fluids. The latex product must be intact – no puncture or tear. Dispose (throw away) latex products in a marked biohazard container.
The important message!
Testing:
A simple blood test can determine if a person is infected with HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). Persons are encouraged to get tested for HIV regularly. In the USA, test results are supposed to be confidential (private) even though the data is reported to the health department for statistical purposes.
When test results are given, information is also provided on services available and possible treatment options. Counseling is also offered.
Major challenge:
Despite all of the advances in HIV testing, counseling treatment options and massive HIV/AIDS public education/treatment efforts, it remains estimated that almost 25% (one quarter) of persons who are infected with HIV (HIV+) are honestly unaware of their personal HIV status. They have not been tested. This factor represents not only a failure of education and outreach efforts nationwide, but also the serious potential for a major health crisis. Get tested! Know your status!
Knowledge is power!
Key components:
NBHAAD guidelines mandate four (4) key components that must be present in order for an awareness campaign to be considered a success. Each component is designed to build individual and community strengths in combatting HIV/AIDS. The four essential elements are:
Get educated: Know and learn the facts about transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS.
Get involved: Explore opportunities available in individual and community prevention efforts.
Get tested: Know your HIV status and encourage/empower others to do the same.
Get treated: Receive proper healthcare and support needed to successfully live as HIV+.
Analysis proves that people learn and retain knowledge most effectively from people they perceive as most like themselves. NBHAAD is an African-American based to provide direction, guidance and implementation to the Black population specifically. It represents a resource that is both accessible, authentic and dependable.
Elimination of the unknown!
Knowledge is power:
The more that we know, the better we become in enjoying not only good health but also successful living. NBHAAD and sponsored programs increase the amount of knowledge within a community and the opportunities for discussions concerning issues surrounding HIV/AIDS that individuals may face. It helps to create an environment where the virus that causes AIDS is a comfortable topic without fear of judgment.
Recently, the coronavirus COVID-19 and variants have received attention in health circles that have surpassed the attention focused on HIV/AIDS. Both infections need our attention and because HIV/AIDS has been with us longer, it still is prevalent and warrants action and continued education. Our health deserves all the attention we can offer to it!
Endorsements:
Kory Mitchell, cross on his lower left abdomen!
Now retired from his career in the gay porn industry, proud bare practitioner, Kory Mitchell, himself a certified American Red Cross prevention education instructor trainer (as myself) has visual tattoos to accentuate his status as HIV+ and in support of NBHAAD. We both collaborated on several HIV/AIDS prevention education projects for the Red Cross nationally. Early in his film career, Kory had “blessed” tattooed on his shoulder and a cross inked on his abdomen to remind his fans of his Christian faith.
“Blessed on his shoulder, “hope” on his neck!
Shortly after his diagnosis as HIV+ and just before his retirement, he had the word “hope” tattooed on his neck. Instead of the letter “o” in hope, he had a red HIV/AIDS awareness ribbon substituted instead. Very creative and imaginative, Kory!
Phoenix Fellington, bare, smiling and on the right!
Phoenix Fellington, as documented in the previous post entry here on Monday, 3 February, 2025, “Bare Is Real!” We are truly fortunate to offer his reasoning for being employed in the gay porn industry not once but twice in the same week! His message compliments NBHAAD!
“Why do I do gay porn? To teach men how to have sex. Responsibly and safely!” ~ Phoenix Fellington ~ openly gay pornography actor, ReNude Pride spokes-model
Jason Collins, first openly gay NBA athlete, Brooklyn Nets!
Now retired NBA professional player, Jason Collins, formerly of the Brooklyn Nets. Jason was the very first NBA professional to “come out” as gay while still playing in the NBA. His sentiments here reflect prejudice, whether over a person’s sexuality or over their HIV status.
“Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it’s a good place to start.” ~ Jason Collins ~ openly gay NBA professional, Brooklyn Nets
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Monday, February 10, 2025, and the proposed topic is: “Posing Bare: Part 3!”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 