Rainbow flag (LGBTQ)

The rainbow flag, often referred to as the LGBTQ+ pride flag, is a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) pride and LGBTQ+ social movements. It is used worldwide. Designed by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978, the flag originally featured eight colors, each representing a different aspect: hot pink (sexuality), red (life), orange (healing), yellow (sunlight), green (nature), turquoise (magic/art), indigo (serenity/harmony), and violet (spirit).

Due to fabric availability and production constraints, the hot pink and turquoise stripes were later removed, resulting in the six-color flag most commonly seen today. The six colors of the contemporary flag are generally interpreted as: red (life), orange (healing), yellow (sunlight), green (nature), blue (serenity), and violet (spirit).

Over the years, numerous variations of the flag have emerged, including those that incorporate black and brown stripes to represent marginalized LGBTQ+ people of color, and stripes of the transgender pride flag (light blue, pink, and white). These variations aim to promote inclusivity and address specific concerns within the broader LGBTQ+ community.

The rainbow flag serves as a visual representation of LGBTQ+ identity, solidarity, and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance. It is commonly displayed at pride parades, LGBTQ+ community centers, and other events and locations to symbolize support for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.