Gay pride flag with stars

This highly visible symbol of pride arose from an idea of hope and power more than 40 years ago at a site that could be worthy of national recognition. On our streets, at our parades, even on our clothing, the rainbow flag has become a worldwide symbol of LGBTQ pride. Yet few of us ask: Where did this flag come from? The first rainbow flag was created by Gilbert Baker, a prominent figure among gay political activists in San Francisco in the s.

It is flown at gay pride events worldwide, as well as at homes and businesses in a show of support for the gay pride movement. The Original Rainbow Pride Flag features eight stripes, as opposed to the six-stripe Rainbow Flag that is commonly flown today. Unfortunately, hot pink fabric was not readily available at the time, and the flag could not be produced on a large scale, so the hot pink stripe was removed. The Gay Pride Flag was modified again in to create an even number of stripes, and indigo and turquoise were replaced with a single stripe of royal blue, resulting in the now standard six-stripe version of the Rainbow Flag we know today.

And while many people have likely seen one or more of these flags, not everyone understands the symbolism and the story behind each one. We want to help you know the flags! Table of contents click on the button you want to jump to a specific section. Gilbert Pride Flag.

The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center. Serving students across the gender, sexuality, and romantic identity spectrums. We are located near the University Center at 10th Ave and strive to create an accessible and welcoming space. View Campus Map.