The rainbow flag, with its vibrant coloured stripes, has become a universal symbol of LGBTIQ+ pride. However, as time goes by, questions arise about its origin and the meaning of its colors.
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After the tragic attack on the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in 2016, a symbol of unity and solidarity flooded the streets of the world: the rainbow flag. Public buildings and protesters in every corner of the planet raised it in memory of the victims and as a clear message of support for the LGBTQ+ community.
What is the origin of the rainbow flag?
In 1978, artist Gilbert Baker, at the request of activist Harvey Milk, designed the rainbow flag as a symbol of unity and pride for the LGBTQ+ community.
Inspired by the peace flag and the hippie movement of the 1960s, Baker saw the rainbow as a reflection of the diversity and beauty of the LGBTIQ+ community.
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What is the meaning of the colors of the LGBTIQ+ flag?
Originally, the Baker flag had eight colored stripes, each with a specific meaning:
- Rose (sexuality)
- Red (life)
- Orange (healing)
- Yellow (sun)
- Green (nature)
- Turquoise (art)
- Blue (harmony)
- Violet (spirit)
Over time, The flag was simplified to the current six-stripe versionmaintaining the essence of the original message.
The rainbow flag has transcended its initial function as a symbol of protest to become a global icon of diversity, inclusion and acceptance. It is flown proudly on streets around the world during LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations.and has become a point of reference for the community in its fight for equal rights.
Source: https://www.noticiascaracol.com/mundo/por-que-la-bandera-lgbtiq-tiene-los-colores-del-arcoiris-so35
