ThirstyFish

While on one of my Sunday photo walks meandering around the Philadelphia Museum District, a group of naked cyclist passed by and got everyone's attention. They were followed by waves of hundreds of naked people on bikes. The event turned out to be the First Philly Naked Bike Ride.

The Philly Naked Bike Ride is affiliated with the World Naked Bike Ride organization. Since its beginnings in Zaragoza, Spain in 2001, the event has spread to over 70 cities and 20 countries. Although the group claims that the events are held to raise awareness about fuel consumption and to promote cycling advocacy, it is primarily a social gathering, and it has done more to start public discussions about fundamental freedoms, the legality of public nudity, exhibitionism and body image.

As can be seen in the photograph, most Philadelphians seemed to enjoy/cheer the event. Nudity is defined, tolerated and accepted differently by various cultures, religions and legal systems.