Nude sunbathing may not be for everyone. But those who enjoy sunbathing in the buff
should have a beach where it is allowed.
By common practice, that place is a specific stretch of the beach at Oka.
But some local residents and other beach users have objected, on various grounds.
Their concerns should be addressed.
According to Mayor Bernard Patry of Oka Parish, more goes on there than just skinny
dipping. He has complained to the Sûreté du Québec about alleged
sexual relations among nude bathers there.
If indecent acts are being committed, then the police should press charges. Such
offences should not be tolerated anywhere.
But the allegations should not be used as a pretext to crack down on what many consider
a healthful and pleasant thing to do.
Some clothed beach users also complain that some nudists are straying beyond the
western part of the beach where nudism is the norm.
That area is a 20-minute walk from the parking lot. In order to respect the feelings
of all, a sign should be erected by park authorities delineating the area where
nude bathing is practiced; those who object need not enter.
There is nothing inherently unhealthy about nude sunbathing as a way of getting
closer to nature during the sweltering days of mid-summer - so long as sunbathers
don't forget their sunscreen.