July brings Canada Day on the First and Independence Day in the U.S. on the Fourth. It also marks Nude Recreation Week and, if we are lucky, a slew of positive stories about nude recreation because of our press releases promoting Nude Recreation Week. It seems to be the month of fairs, festivals, and fun in the sun across North America. A chance to get out and explore the great outdoors with others.
Nudists need positive stories out there to normalize nude recreation. The office in Kissimmee and the regional presidents usually have some contact with news outlets leading up to the Nude Recreation Week. It is also when we have the chance to point out positive and negative legislation affecting nudists.
Our actions in the community help form a positive attitude about nudists in the community. July is a chance to join with other civic groups to promote common goals. Nudists who are members of other civic groups, like Rotary or Lions clubs, join within the community to raise funds. Coming out as a nudist in supporting these events shows we care about our community at large.
We care about things besides being nude. Your commitment to community is your strength, and that needs to be seen as a positive aspect of nudism.
Make yourself known as a proud member of your local community. Seek support for your other causes and be up front with your support for nude use. We need to make our efforts as responsible citizens part of our persona beyond the smaller nudist community and out to the larger community.
One of the community efforts we worked on a couple of years ago was the Denny Blaine beach effort in Washington. This continues to be an effort that requires us to reassert the nudist values over the inappropriate use issue. Summertime in Seattle means more opportunities to enjoy the nude use of Denny Blaine. Our efforts and your support have been important in assuring this responsible nude use can continue despite those trying to undermine wholesome nude use for their own agenda.
It was especially encouraging to receive a positive message from a local Denny Blaine beach goer, recognizing our ongoing efforts on behalf of all nudists. I’ll close this column with their words of appreciation – a reminder that your support for GAT continues to make a meaningful, lasting impact.
“I recognize that you do not condone, nor are directly involved in, these incidents. Nonetheless, I sincerely appreciate that AANR provides guidance and support to community members during such times. Your continued work is truly valued.”
AANR members make a difference in promoting nude recreation all year round.
Tim Mullins
AANR Government Affairs Chair
