Posted on: July 19, 2023
Since its debut at the Gay Freedom Day Parade celebration on June 25, 1978 in San Francisco, the original Pride flag has had several iterations in the name of inclusion. That original
version, designed by artist Gilbert Baker, included eight colours, each with its own meaning. By 1979, the traditional six-colour Pride flag emerged – and in the years since it has added elements to represent queer people of colour, trans and intersex. As well, multiple other flags and symbols have been developed to acknowledge the diverse experiences and identities within the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
The ongoing evolution of flags and symbols across the queer+ community serves to unite and show solidarity. There are several other important purposes:
- Pride and Celebration: 2SLGBTQI+ flags represent resilience, progress and the ongoing fight for equality and human rights. They serve as a reminder of the struggles faced and the progress made.
- Representation: Each flag or symbol represents a specific subset of the community, highlighting its unique history, struggles and accomplishments. They allow individuals to express their identities and find a sense of belonging and visibility.
- Diversity and Inclusion: The multitude of flags and symbols recognizes that individuals within the community have different needs, challenges and intersecting identities.
- Visibility and Awareness: Flags and symbols serve as a way to raise awareness and increase visibility of equity deserving communities. Displaying these flags and other symbols can spark conversations, educate others and promote understanding and acceptance.
Just like very few of us could recognize all 195 flags representing countries around the globe, it is not expected that queer individuals, nor allies, memorize all 32+ flags that represent the 2SLGBTQI+ community. But, it is important to understand and honour the unifying importance of these symbols in making members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community feel seen, heard and celebrated. Alongside a commitment to increase your/your team's capacity to offer inclusive and affirming care to people from Queer+ communities, displaying a pride flag in your area is an easy way to begin the journey towards creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
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