See also American Association for Nude Recreation
The American Sunbathing Association was the precursor to what is now American Association for Nude Recreation. The ASA was started in 1931 as the International Nudist League, by three men including Rev. Ilsley Boone who was it’s leader for twenty years. During that time he moved the headquarters to Sunshine Park in Cape May, New Jersey.
Non discrimination statement
In 1949 at its annual convention, the ASA received its first black delegate Brad (EJ) Samuels and his wife Laura breaking the nudist color barrier. They also adopted a non discrimination policy. 1Nudism and Negroes – Herbert Nipson Ebony Magazine August 1951 The policy stated.
We are a minority group in American life, and as such must not make the same errors of discriminating against others as we have been discriminated against. We realize that such discrimination is un- democratic and un-American. Be it resolved that all members and leaders of our groups be re- minded of this, and that those groups which are actually putting these beliefs courageously into practice be hereby commended.”
Ballot battle
With his majority share of member proxy votes, Boone could — and frequently did — sway A.S.A . elections in the direction he wanted. Boone was finally ousted from leadership in a contentious ballot battle. The stage for the battle and Boone’s eventual ouster was set at the AmericanSunbathing Association’s 20th Annual Convention at PennSylvan Health Club in Mohnton, Pennsylvania. Thursday, August 9th, 1951.
Fed up with Boone’s autocratic control over their elections, an insurgent group of ASA members led by Norval Packwood— in a meeting presided over by ASA Pres Rudolph Johnson — orchestrated a complex legal ouster of Uncle Danny and passed a new set of bylaws for the corporation.
Not one to give in easily Boone a veteran at legal battle which won the right to publish nude photos in magazines, locked down the company bank accounts and mail. He returned to Pennsylvania the next day with his own PA system and held a dueling convention, claiming the prior day’s events were illegal and void.
Despite the presence of some strong supporters, the majority of attendees had voted against him, and most did not recognize his protests as valid. Following the convention, American Sunbathing Association divided into two factions, each one claiming to be the true ASA. Each had its own magazine. The new ASA published their side of the story in American Nudist Leader. Boone shared his take in his Sunshine & Health
Much of the content in this wiki article was adapted from information provided by Naturist Vintage 2 Naturist Vintage
References
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