A note from history: The American Sunbathing Association
“We believe in the essential wholesomeness of the human body and regard it neither as an object of shame nor a subject for degrading exploitation. We believe that sunlight and air are vital to human life and well-being, and that exposure of the entire body to these elements is desirable at such time and at such places as are fitting and proper for the purpose. We believe that we are entitled to enjoy the benefits of such exposure, without interference as long as we do not cause injury to our fellow citizens. Nudism is potentially one of the steps to greater human acceptance and, therefore, human awareness and growth.
False modesty and artificial concepts of morality deny to people the meeting of each other without fear. True modesty can be achieved only when it is possible to totally accept oneself and others with unrestricted openness and honesty. Some of us have finally emerged from the fog that distorted our vision, and we have decided to experiment a little with human reactions to the disclosure of truth and God’s original plan of life.
The reward has been instantaneous and electrifying: spiritual release, physical improvement, moral stamina, social integrity, and human consideration immediately become dominant factors in this program of life. It is so impressive, that we look back with wonder at the stupidity that once victimized us, and is still victimizing others. Deliverance from this bondage is realized by simply believing in the decency and dignity of the human body that God designed, and in being practical about it.”
