Sexual Freedom League

The Sexual Freedom League was founded in New York City in 1963 with local chapters, including the Sexual Freedom League of San Francisco. The East Bay Sexual Freedom League was reorganized in 1967 as the Sexual Freedom League, Inc., with national headquarters in Oakland. An undated flier in the collection states that "The Sexual Freedom League of San Francisco is a group of people who join together to defend freedom of choice in everyone's sex life."

From the description of Sexual Freedom League records, 1962-1983 (bulk 1964-1973). (University of California, Berkeley). WorldCat record id: 82427512

Organizational History

The Sexual Freedom League was founded in 1963 in New York City. Julian Beck, Allen Ginsberg, and Dr. Leo Koch were among those on the Advisory Committee of the original group, which was active in demonstrations for a wide range of causes. Initially composed of a small membership of independent local chapters in New York, San Francisco, and London, the organization grew rapidly, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area after 1966, when the emphasis shifted toward nude parties. The League reorganized in 1967 as the Sexual Freedom League, Incorporated with its national headquarters in Oakland and chapters in San Jose, Los Angeles, San Diego, Chicago, San Francisco, and elsewhere.

The League advocated three main issues: the right of each person to make his or her own choices in sexual matters, without coercion or restrictive laws; the psychological and spiritual liberation which allows people to joyfully accept their sensuality; and the right of all persons, including women and homosexuals, to be free from sexual discrimination in the exercise of their non-sexual rights and liberties. Each independent group chose its own emphasis and methods, with activities ranging from legislative lobbying to parties; most concentrated on laws, while some focused on personal growth.

From the guide to the Sexual Freedom League Records, 1962-1983, (bulk 1964-1973), (The Bancroft Library)