Gay and lesbian flag

Other older uses of rainbow flags include a symbol of peace. While this use of the rainbow flag originated in San Francisco , it is now used worldwide. Originally devised by artist Gilbert Baker , the design has undergone several revisions since its debut in , first to remove colors then restore them based on availability of fabrics. The flag is typically flown horizontally, with the red stripe on top, as it would be in a natural rainbow. Currently LGBTQ individuals and allies use rainbow flags and many rainbow-themed items and color schemes as an outward symbol of their identity or support.

The LGBT community has adopted certain symbols for self-identification to demonstrate unity, pride , shared values, and allegiance to one another. LGBT symbols communicate ideas, concepts, and identity both within their communities and to mainstream culture. The two most-recognized international LGBT symbols are the pink triangle and the rainbow flag. The rainbow flag, previously used as a symbol of unity among all people, was adopted to be a more organic and natural replacement without any negativity attached to it. The flag does not depict an actual rainbow. Rather, the colors of the rainbow are displayed as horizontal stripes, with red at the top and violet at the bottom. It represents the diversity of gays and lesbians around the world.

Skip navigation! Story from Queer Voices. If you're in a city, you'll likely see rainbows in shop windows, and no matter where you live, you'll probably run across a few rainbow-washed logos from your favorite brands on social media during Pride month. But show up to a Pride parade, and it's more than just the rainbow flag that you'll see.

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer groups over the years have used a variety of symbols to demonstrate solidarity and unity for a common cause and to graphically represent their shared vision. LGBTQ advocates and activists have adopted various emblems, logos, insignia, flags, and colors, to express their sense of pride. Rainbow Flag.