In 1978, artist and activist Gilbert Baker created the first rainbow Pride flag, a powerful symbol of unity, love, and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community. This original flag featured eight distinct colors, each representing a unique aspect of the human experience. Over the years, the flag has evolved, but Baker’s original design remains a testament to the diversity and strength of the LGBTQ+ movement.

The meaning behind the Pride flag colors

Baker’s original rainbow flag wasn’t just a rainbow for aesthetic purposes; it was a deliberate and thoughtful creation. Each color had a specific meaning, reflecting the core values and aspirations of the LGBTQ+ community:

  • Pink (Sex): Signifying sexuality, an essential and celebratory aspect of human identity.
  • Red (Life): Representing life and the life force within us all.
  • Orange (Healing): Symbolizing healing, a reminder of the community’s ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality.
  • Yellow (Sunlight): Emblematic of sunlight, joy, and the bright moments in life.
  • Green (Nature): Reflecting nature, a grounding and nurturing force.
  • Turquoise (Magic): Denoting magic and art, highlighting creativity and expression.
  • Blue (Serenity): Representing serenity, peace, and harmony.
  • Violet (Spirit): Signifying spirit, the soul, and inner strength.
Gilbert Baker, creator of the original Pride rainbow flag, wearing a brooch and clutch in the original 8 stripes attends an event in NYC.
Gilbert Baker creator of rainbow flag attends the 27th Annual Night Of A Thousand Gowns at the Hilton New York on April 6, 2013 in New York City

The evolution of the Pride flag

While the modern Pride flag is more commonly seen with six colors, the original eight-color version by Baker holds a special place in LGBTQ+ history. The removal of pink and turquoise was a result of the practicality and availability of fabric, but the meanings of these colors continue to resonate within the community.

Today, we also have the Philadelphia Pride flag, the Progress Pride flag (including the latest intersex-inclusive version), and Pride flags for all queer identities—even an Ally Pride flag.

Understanding the original Pride flag’s symbolism allows us to appreciate the depth and diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. Each stripe represents an integral part of the human experience, celebrating not just individual identities but also the collective journey towards equality and acceptance.

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Let's find out your Rainbow Pride flag color!

To celebrate our queer history and the diversity in our community, we made this quiz! Find out which color of the original eight stripes of the 1978 Gilbert Baker Rainbow Pride flag suits you best.

No matter the color you get, each result will uncover a special part of what makes you who you are.

Take the quiz to discover your true colors!

What's your ideal way to spend a weekend?

1. Attending a creative workshop
2. Meditating or doing yoga
3. Partying with friends
4. Exploring nature

What's your favorite type of weather?

1. Cool and breezy
2. Clear night sky with stars
3. Rainy and cozy
4. Hot and sunny

What's your go-to comfort food?

1. Herbal tea
2. Fresh fruit salad
3. Chocolate cake
4. Spicy tacos

What's your favorite hobby?

1. Dancing
2. Gardening
3. Painting
4. Reading

What's your dream vacation destination?

1. A peaceful mountain retreat
2. A tranquil beach
3. A vibrant city
4. A wellness spa

What's your favorite time of day?

1. Night
2. Afternoon
3. Evening
4. Morning

What's your favorite type of music?

1. Upbeat pop
2. Relaxing acoustic
3. Chill R&B
4. Mysterious electronic

What's your ideal pet?

1. An energetic dog
2. A curious cat
3. A calming fish
4. A wise parrot

How do you handle stress?

1. Creating art
2. Dancing it off
3. Meditating or deep breathing
4. Going for a walk

What's your favorite holiday?

1. Earth Day
2. National Coming Out Day
3. Halloween
4. New Year's Eve

All 10 questions completed!

Let's find out your Rainbow Pride flag color!

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