A History of the LGBTQ+ Pride Flag: More Than Just Colours

A Symbol That Speaks Without Words

At parades, rallies, and even quiet moments of self-acceptance, the LGBTQ+ Pride flag waves as more than just fabric — it’s a declaration. A history. A lifeline. Draped over shoulders, displayed in windows, and flown high at marches, this flag carries stories of love, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality. But where did it begin? And what do its colors truly represent?

The LGBTQ+ Pride flag is more than just an aesthetic; it’s a message. A symbol of belonging. A beacon for those who have fought for visibility and those who are still finding their place. Understanding its origins is not just about learning history—it’s about honouring the people who shaped it.

The Birth of the Rainbow Flag

The modern LGBTQ+ Pride flag was first designed in 1978 by Gilbert Baker, a San Francisco-based artist and activist. Encouraged by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., Baker envisioned a flag that would unite the community under one powerful symbol. Inspired by the rainbow’s diversity and universality, he chose eight vibrant colours, each with a specific meaning:

1. Pink – Sex
   
2. Red – Life
   
3. Orange – Healing
   
4. Yellow – Sunlight
   
5. Green – Nature
   
6. Turquoise – Magic & Art
   
7. Indigo – Serenity
   
8. Violet – Spirit
   

When first unveiled at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade, the flag quickly became a beloved emblem of the LGBTQ+ community. However, due to fabric shortages, pink and turquoise were later removed, leaving us with the six-colour version most recognised today.

The Evolution of the Pride Flag

As LGBTQ+ identities became more widely acknowledged, the flag evolved to represent the full spectrum of the community. Several variations have emerged, each with unique symbolism:

• The Classic Rainbow Flag (1979-Present)

This six-stripe version (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet) became the standard after pink and turquoise were dropped. It remains the most widely recognised LGBTQ+ symbol worldwide.

• The Transgender Pride Flag (1999)

Designed by Monica Helms, this flag features light blue, pink, and white stripes, representing the traditional colours for boys and girls, with white symbolising non-binary, intersex, or transitioning individuals.

• The Philadelphia Pride Flag (2017)

Introduced to highlight racial diversity and inclusion, this flag includes black and brown stripes to uplift LGBTQ+ people of colour.

• The Progress Pride Flag (2018)

Created by Daniel Quasar, this design adds a chevron of black, brown, light blue, pink, and white to the classic rainbow, recognising people of colour, trans individuals, and those lost to HIV/AIDS.

• The Non-Binary, Lesbian, Asexual & Other Flags

As the LGBTQ+ community expands its visibility, new flags have emerged to represent different identities, ensuring everyone has a banner to call their own.

More Than Just a Flag—A Symbol of Resistance & Love

Throughout history, symbols have played a crucial role in the fight for equality. The LGBTQ+ flag has been banned, burned, and torn down, yet it continues to rise, stronger than before.

• In the 1980s and 1990s, the flag became a rallying symbol during the HIV/AIDS crisis, when the community fought for visibility and medical support.
  
• In 2015, the White House was illuminated in rainbow colours after same-sex marriage was legalised in the U.S.
  
• In 2021, Hungary banned its display in schools, proving that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is far from over.

Each time the flag is flown, it stands as a reminder: love is love, identity is valid, and the fight for equality continues.

How to Display the Pride Flag with Meaning

Owning a Pride flag isn’t just about decoration—it’s about visibility, solidarity, and personal expression. Whether displayed in a home, at a workplace, or worn as a cape at Pride, it tells the world: we are here, and we are proud.

• Fly it high – Let it wave from a flagpole, balcony, or car to show unwavering support.
  
• Wear it proudly – Pins, patches, and clothing featuring the flag allow for everyday representation.
  
• Gift it with love – A Pride flag makes a meaningful gift for someone embracing their identity.
  
• Use it in activism – Whether at a protest, parade, or silent demonstration, the flag speaks volumes.

TOMSCOUT: Your Flag, Your Pride

Finding the right LGBTQ+ flag is about more than just picking colours—it’s about choosing a symbol that speaks to your identity. At TOMSCOUT, we offer high-quality LGBTQ+ flags and accessories that let you celebrate who you are with pride.

• Durable, weather-resistant materials – Perfect for outdoor display.
  
• Vibrant, fade-resistant colours – Ensuring your flag remains bold and beautiful.
  
• Flags for every identity – Whether classic rainbow or niche community flags, representation matters.

Whether it’s a Progress Pride flag, a Trans Pride flag, or one that reflects your unique journey, find a flag that represents you.

The Power of a Flag

The LGBTQ+ Pride flag is more than just fabric—it’s history, resilience, and hope stitched together in bold, unyielding color. It has seen protests, celebrations, court victories, and personal awakenings. It has flown in defiance, in grief, in joy.

And every time it is raised, it sends a message: we are here, we are proud, and we are unstoppable.