Tom Brown—April 2011

Profiles—Tom Brown—April 2011

Name: Tom Brown

State: Maryland

Club or AANR-East Affiliation: Pine Tree Associates

Role(s) with AANR-East: Board of Directors

How you got started with nude recreation: In college I was introduced to naturism by a foreign exchange student from Finland when we went to a nude beach in California. While at first intimidated, I soon relaxed and realized that nudity was no big deal. In fact, I found that the nudity broke through barriers and allowed us to interact with others whom we probably would not have interacted with hidden behind textile barriers.

What does nude recreation give to you/mean to you: It means freedom of spirit to me. I believe that we are made in the image and likeness of God; when nude in nature I feel more at one with nature and God than at any other time. It gives me pleasure to commune with nature and with those who share my feelings and attitude towards naturism. I have found that naturists are open and honest people who literally have nothing to hide and nothing to hide behind; they are able to be themselves without the trappings of status exemplified by the clothes we wear. In naturism we are all as one, as God made us.

Your vision for nude recreation/ or / your vision for AANR or AANR-East: My vision for nude recreation is for Americans to attain a level of body acceptance that my family experienced in European cultures thereby pushing back against the forces of the entertainment and advertising industries that advocate an unrealistic body physique which cause unhealthy self consciousness- particularly among our young adults. I envision a level of body acceptance that enables our members to enjoy life as nature intended. I envision clubs and organizations associated with AANR/AANR-East providing a wholesome environment for nudists to associate with like minded people in safe environments that offer an array of facilities and recreational options which appeal to our member’s interests. I envision putting into place policies and procedures that not only address our current membership’s desires but that also establish an attractive environment for expanding our membership. We must grow our membership with and as our nation evolves. I envision facilities that keep pace with the trends of our culture and reflect the needs and desires of our current members as well as prospective members.