Get Out and Celebrate!
July is a month filled with events to celebrate. The warm summer weather finally gives many of us the opportunity to shed our clothes, breathe deeply, and enjoy the freedom of experiencing the outdoors in our natural state.
Here in the United States, we are also celebrating the Semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic document represents the freedoms, rights, and protections that generations have fought to preserve. As nudists and naturists, we understand how important, and sometimes tenuous, personal freedoms can be. The privileges we enjoy today can easily become the subject of legislation tomorrow.
This is why the Government Affairs Team (GAT) plays such an important role within AANR. The GAT Committee actively monitors legislation across the country that may impact nudists. Throughout 2025 and into 2026, we have seen increased legislative attention focused on issues involving nudity, particularly surrounding the combination of children, nude adults, and alcohol. We have also seen states that were once considered accepting of social nudity begin introducing new restrictions and regulations.
As a member of AANR, a portion of your membership dues helps support efforts to oppose legislation that could negatively affect nude recreation. If you would like to contribute directly to the GAT Fund, please visit our website and, after logging in, click on “About AANR, and you will see on the drop-down, “Donate to GAT.” https://www.aanr.com/myaanr/donate.php
For nudists, every day is an opportunity to enjoy nude recreation, but July also brings special events that help introduce others to the positive philosophy of wholesome, family-friendly, non-judgmental nudism.
This month, Nude Recreation Week takes place from July 6–12, encompassing the always-popular Skinny-Dip Day on July 11.
As you celebrate Nude Recreation Week and Skinny-Dip Day this year, consider inviting someone who has never experienced nudism before. Introducing others to the values of body positivity, respect, and freedom may be one of the greatest gifts we can share.
Linda Weber
AANR President
