2016.03.02 Bustle
The #FreeTheNipple campaign has bringing out the best and worst in everyone in recent years, with a GOP bill in New Hampshire that's trying to ban women's nipples now on the naughty list. There are actually quite a few
states where it's OK for women to go topless, New Hampshire included (currently, at least); however, if passed, this new bill would qualify
bare breasts and nipples in public as indecent exposure and lewdness — the one exception being women who are breastfeeding.
Policing women's bodies is nothing new, but the gross double standard of the acceptance of male nipples and the rejection of female ones never ceases to amaze me. Nipples are nipples. Who cares? It's not just a matter of legally accepting the female body. We've already seen how
our lack of cultural acceptance manifests for women openly breastfeeding in public. Despite the fact that we've sexualized the female body for decades, many people still cringe at a woman performing one of the most natural acts in the universe: Nourishing her offspring.
Big, giant disclaimer: Always check state and local city laws yourself to confirm how they'll feel about your chesticles before you go parading with your lady bits exposed to the world — and you might want to consult with an attorney while you're at it. Toplessness for women might only be permitted in certain cities, or on certain resorts, or in certain circumstances for each state; it sucks, and it's exactly that double standard that movements like #FreeTheNipple are trying to address, but we still can't just go around breaking the law willy-nilly. Just, you know, know what your rights are and where they apply. It's good to be informed — and to know how to fact-check your information.
1. Ohio
You may think nothing special is going on in Ohio; but
head to Columbus and you can let your boobies fly free.
2. Kansas
Kansas is home to multiple nude resorts and other c
lothing-optional establishments.
So take your party pillows in those places and go have a ball.
3. Georgia
It might be recognized as
one of the more conservative states, but Georgia is ironically OK with you and your peaches. However,
not everyone in Georgia is aware of this fact, so be prepared for some backlash.
4. North Carolina
Beautiful weather, ocean breeze, and the option to
free the nipple in the city of Asheville. Hooray!
5. Kentucky
Kentucky bans the exposure of genitals, but
the knockers are fair game.
