Topless women protesters 'surprised and upset' as men show up with cameras

Dozens of women walked topless through downtown Portland on Saturday in order to bring attention to what they say is a double standard when it comes to the public display of upper torsos.

The event's organizer, Ty MacDowell, says she set up the event (with a police escort) because she could: Maine's nudity laws only apply to exposed genitals. She says she was surprised by the number of men who showed up with cameras. "I'm really upset by the men… all the men that are here, just like watching it like it's a parade."



"We should be able to walk down the street and not have this many men taking pictures of us," a participant shouted.

Some bystanders say they were upset at the spectacle, saying children were present, on a sunny Saturday in the Old Port, a busy time for family outings. The walk went off without any problems. Organizers say they expect to plan similar events in the future.

With news video.