June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the 2SLGBTQI+ community’s rich history and ongoing fight for equality. More than just a colourful banner, the rainbow flag’s stripes reflect the community’s diversity, encompassing the vast spectrum of human sexuality and gender identities. Created in the heart of San Francisco, California, the flag’s journey began as a local symbol, eventually blossoming into a global icon at 2SLGBTQI+ rights events around the world.
A Symbol Evolving From 8 to 6
Credited to artist Gilbert Baker and a collective of fellow activists, the flag’s design wasn’t always set in stone. After its debut in 1978, it underwent a metamorphosis, inspiring a wave of variations. While Baker’s original creation boasted eight distinct colours, the most recognized version today features six bold stripes: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet. Displayed horizontally with red at the top, mirroring a natural rainbow, each colour holds a special meaning:
Red represents LIFE
Orange is for HEALING
Yellow signifies SUNLIGHT
Green embodies elements of NATURE
Blue signifies SERENITY
Violet personifies the Community’s SPIRIT
Growth & Awareness Takes 1 to 20
It’s important to remember that the rainbow flag isn’t the only one representing 2SLGBTQI+ identities. Many sub-communities have their own flags further highlighting the beautiful diversity within the 2SLGBTQI+ spectrum. Take the Progress Pride flag, released in 2018 by designer Daniel Quasar. This reimagined design doesn’t abandon its roots. The familiar six stripes remain at the core, however, a vibrant chevron bursts forth along the left edge, adding black, brown, light blue, pink, and white stripes. These colours proudly represent marginalized communities of colour, trans folks, and those living with or lost to HIV/AIDS. This bold addition isn’t merely symbolic, the chevron’s rightward direction signifies progress, while its placement highlights the ongoing struggle for full 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion. It’s a flag that celebrates the strides made while acknowledging the journey ahead.
Other flags include the Bisexual Pride Flag and Pansexual Pride Flag. Each one carefully designed to represent their community. Learn more HERE.
So, this June, when you see the rainbow flag waving proudly, remember the stories and struggles it represents. As a symbol of unity, let’s celebrate the progress made while acknowledging the work that remains so that everyone can live authentically and proudly.
Happy Pride!
