Ten Reasons Why I Can't Always Go Naked!!

By Liz Egger     In which I reflect on the pros and cons of "nude activism". ( From Jan 2004)

There's a lot of nudity about these days. I've mentioned it before.
Nude protests, nude calendars, nude TV programmes, mass nude photography happenings; it seems we can expect at least one nude event a week, and if you've been reading my meanderings over the years you'll know that on the whole I regard them all with a kindly, if slightly sceptical, eye.
All, that is, except the "Nude Activist".
You'll have read about the nude activist, or seen him or her on TV. This is the person who demands the right to go naked at all times, no matter where or when or what the circumstances. To make it's point the "NA" will attempt to walk the length of Britain naked, or drive nude across Canada, or stroll chilly city streets in the buff.The NA views any opposition to it's nude display as a violation of it's own civil liberties, conveniently ignoring the human rights of those who don't wish to see naked bodies outside McDonalds.  In order to obtain maximum exposure (in every meaning of the phrase), the NA is prepared - no, anxious - to go to prison for the cause. 
Personally, I have little sympathy with the nude activist. I campaign hard for nudist rights, but I'll never be a "nude activist". Here's ten reasons why...
Because many people consider nudity - even their own nakedness - wicked, shameful, offensive or disgusting. I personally find this hard to believe and difficult to justify, but logic doesn't enter into it. These are deeply-rooted religious, cultural and moral beliefs that aren't swayed by reason. Such people are genuinely upset at public displays of nudity, and I should respect their right NOT to see me naked. Sure I have a right to be nude, but there is a time and place for everything, and common sense tells me that the High Street is not it .
Because parents have the right to protect their children in their own way. If this includes preventing them accidentally experiencing the nudity of strangers, what right have I to decide otherwise? 
Because unlike so called "nude activists", I don't care to be sued or arrested. In the UK , and I suspect most other places, public nudity inevitably incurs the wrath of the local bobbies. Police stations are dispiriting places, cells more so and prison food is not generally recommended. I'd rather avoid all of them. I guess I'm just funny that way.
Because being expected to wear clothes in situations where it is considered the norm is not a denial of my human rights. Neither my well-being nor my freedom depend upon it, nor do I suffer loss because of it. Having to remain dressed on a warm day may cause me some minor annoyance, but no more than that. It is not state repression, merely an example of a civil society in action. 
Because, unlike this young lady who prowled the streets of Santiago, Chile a couple of years ago, I don't like to be gawped at by passers-by. I don't want truck drivers whistling and shouting " I'll have some of that darling", and I don't want to be known forever more as "that goofy lady who walks bare-assed round town"
Because the antics of the nude activist don't advance the nudist cause one iota. They merely reinforce the general opinion that nudists are at best dippy exhibitionists and at worst people who should be locked up.
Because going naked does not mean someone is "liberated" any more than being clothed means they are "repressed" If it's sheer unbridled passion you're after, forget the nudist beach and head for the disco!
Because I'd be filmed or photographed, and maybe even interviewed on television. Where would I keep my lipstick and make-up? And how would I fix my hair?
Because for half the year in the UK it's raining or just too damned cold anyway.
And because I can be at one with nature without being always naked. I love to walk through snow-covered woods in winter. It's magical, mysterious and awe-inspiring. Do I do it naked? What do you think? 
And neither would you.
'Til next time
Liz 

Related links

More nudes in public places

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