We have all heard a lot about sexual harassment in the arts and politics recently. All would agree that sexual or gender intimidation is unacceptable in our modern society. The #metoo campaign has inspired thousands of women to come forward with their accounts of actions towards them that are either criminally or socially unacceptable. If one reads between the lines of the claims and disclaimers expressed on both sides, it seems to boil down to a matter of Respect.
The men responsible for the words and actions that we now hear about have shown a lack of respect for the women involved. Unfortunately, however, one commentator has said, “The #metoo campaign is about the entire spectrum of male behaviour,” which also demonstrates a lack of respect for the large segment of the male population that does not take part in these activities.
Naturism holds as one of its basic tenets the concept of Respect; respect for oneself, respect for others and respect for the environment. This concept was the driver at our founding for the ON/NO policy of zero tolerance for harassment, or inappropriate behaviour. The Criminal Code defines criminally unacceptable assault or harassment. However, society goes further in defining what has been socially acceptable by the day-to-day acceptance of certain behaviours…behaviours that are now being seen as unacceptable.
Those behaviours have never been acceptable in naturism.
Unfortunately, simple, non-sexual nudity as a lifestyle choice is widely disrespected and even criminalized in North America by non-naturists. They do not understand how a naturist lifestyle can be non-sexual and can reflect a respect for others. Naturists don’t give up sex, they just use the respectful mindset to determine the appropriate time, place and circumstances.
Naturism is an environment in which respect for all persons, regardless of gender, age, body type or any other inherent factor is held to be an unbreakable rule. Naturist families grow in an environment of body acceptance and respect for others that is apparently absent in large parts of our society. A lack of respect for any ideas other than one’s own beliefs has been widely fueled by social media. Naturism is an antidote.
Naturists should take the opportunity of this ongoing discussion to decide for themselves. Do I live by the concept of respect for others, and not just at ON/NO events? Do I encourage my family and friends to be more respectful of others? Can I view any person, clothed or naked, with respect, not lust? Do I show by my daily actions that naturism and simple, non-sexual nudity deserve more respect today? Naturism has a lot to teach the world if the world can be persuaded to listen.
Ted Thompson
President, Ottawa Naturists / Naturistes de l’Outaouais