Mohonk Preserve's decision to ban nudity as of June 19, 2020, eliminated Split Rock Downstream as one of the few gathering spaces in the region for members of the LGBTQ and naturist communities, and this special place that has existed for decades must be restored.

There was never pressure to be nude in the clothing-optional area. Naturist heterosexuals, including families with children, and LGBTQ people socialized and supported one another.

Mohonk Preserve has delivered the LGBTQ community a slap in the face by taking away this safe and inclusive space as we know and love it during Pride month.

If there is a worry that visitors will be offended by nudity, the obvious solution is to increase signage defining the clothing-optional area, and warning visitors that they may encounter it at Split Rock so everyone can choose where they prefer to visit. Many signs were quickly put up about the nudity ban. It will be just as easy to display ones stating the possibility of encountering nudity.

Mohonk Preserve must please immediately reverse the policy banning nudity and restore the clothing-optional area. It has been a small safe refuge for the LGBTQ and nudist communities for generations. Unless the ban is reversed, I will not be renewing my membership.