Through August, there have been a series of marches for Go Topless Day. Some of the biggest ones took place this weekend, while the Brighton protest took place a week ago. The campaign challenges gender inequality and the differences in restrictions placed on male and female bodies. Maureen attended the Brighton march and tells her tale:
I found this protest back in 2021 when I was visiting Brighton. Unfortunately, I've not managed to return since, as it's always held in August every year and this is a busy work month for me. I happened to be off this year when they released the date, so there was no doubt about my attendance.
I travelled that far as it's something I feel passionate about (equality), and there is no other protest like this in the whole country, which is a crying shame.
Although it's not against the law for women to be topless in public (or indeed naked), it's not socially accepted, even in this day and age, whereas for men it is. This is discrimination based on gender. It's okay for men to be topless but not women. Why????
For example, if I was to walk through Sheringham town centre topless, like many lads/teenagers/boys/men do every single summer, I'm sure I'd get told by passers-by to 'cover up'. I'd receive unwanted comments and attention from the male gaze. I'd hear immature giggles and sniggers. Perhaps parents would cover their children's eyes. I'd get wolf whistles and scornful looks. Perhaps my photo might end up on Facebook alongside some derogatory comments.
Perhaps none of this would happen, but I can't be bothered with the hassle and grief if I were to try it. Men don't receive any 'trouble' from doing the same.
I believe it should be one universal rule for all humans, regardless of gender. EVERYONE has the freedom to be topless (if they so choose to be) without the added attention from doing so, OR no one can be topless at all.
My breasts are not sexual. They are just another part of my body that I was born with. I didn't choose my gender, I didn't choose my breast size. I don't choose to be sexualised just because I am a woman with breasts.
Maureen Marlow
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Photo credit: Deadplantz Film and Photography
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