So, how did we get here with the rainbow pride flag? Its history starts in the 1970s with artist and activist Gilbert Baker. It is a global symbol,' said Charley Beal, president of the Gilbert Baker Foundation.īut the flag wasn't always so ubiquitous, and its predecessors included a lavender rhinoceros, the Greek letter lambda, and the pink triangle - all of which have their own separate meanings and histories but weren't accepted by the LGBTQ+ community at large. 'It is unsurpassed as a global icon in terms of something that stands for hope and diversity, as opposed to a product being sold or a country. It's one of the most recognizable symbols in the world, on par with the American flag or the recycling symbol, and especially during Pride Month, it's everywhere. You already know what the rainbow flag stands for.
