In need of a Symbol:

This week we wave for the one flag that unites all gays and lesbians, the Rainbow flag. It may be something that most of us see quite often, something we associate with, it is the most popular gay symbol but do you know what it really means.

The Rainbow Flag is the most popular gay symbol. It was created by the artist Gilbert Baker of San Francisco. The rainbow was used to symbolize sexuality and gender many times. It was a popular representation in African, Greek and American cultures. Today it is more commonly used by political parties, as a symbol of freedom. Gilbert Baker understood the need for a symbol, which would unite all us gays. For the first time the rainbow flag was used as homosexual symbol in the San Francisco Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade. Every color, Gilbert Baker has chosen, symbolizes different aspects of homosexual life.

-Hot pink means sexuality
-Red - life
-Orange symbolizes healing
-Yellow - the sun
-Green - nature
-Blue - art
-Indigo means harmony
-Violet - spirit

The symbolism was borrowed from other freedom movements such as hippie and black civil rights movement. The popularity of the flag boosted very fast. The purpose to use it yearly at the Parades was achieved. To produce it in a big quantity Baker took it to San Francisco Flag Company. But several colors were commercially not available and were replaced by the other colors. The Rainbow flag became popular all over the world. Now it is easily recognized and widespread. After the 1979 Pride Parade it was recognized not only by common people, but as well by the officials. The existence of such a flag was officially registered by the International Congress of Flag Makers.