In Memory of Andrew Martinez

[Aaron Stern]

I would like to ask my fellow YNAI-nudies to remember Andrew Martinez, aka "The Naked Guy", who committed suicide on May 18, 2006.  After reading all kinds of reports on him and his nudie activism, I would say that there are many aspects of the way he expressed his nudie lifestyle, and many of his tactics to further nudism/naturism I disagree with;  but there is no doubt in my mind that he had a good heart and did what he thought was advancing the nudie ideals.  Unfortunately, his free spirit and activism led to his ouster from the University of California at Berkeley, a ban on nudity in Berkely etc.  He became confused, underwent psychiatric treatment, and ended up in a county jail in San Jose, CA, where he killed himself four years ago today.  Whereas it is not my intention to make Andrew a hero here, I think it's only fair to remember him as a brave warrior for the nudie lifestyle!  Your thoughts, please!  Aaron

[Professor]

I agree. Andrew Martinez was a smart guy with a lot of heart. Its too bad things couldn’t have workout better for him. Real men go naked!

[crazydave]

  He was a good man with a good cause, and the courage to stand up and be himself. Its tragic, that he fell on hard times and lost his mind. We all should learn from his story, so that the next person like him doesn't fall into the same darkness that he died in.