The Asexual Pride Flag

Being asexual refers to those who feel little to no sexual attraction. This does not mean that those who are asexual don’t engage in sexual activity. Being asexual is an orientation, it should not be confused with abstinence or celibacy. Asexuality is an umbrella term, this means that other sexualities such as aromantic and demisexual fall under this category. This also means that being asexual can mean different things to people whether that be not having any romantic attraction to someone to only experiencing sexual feelings for someone after developing an emotional bond. 

If you think you might identify with being asexual or want to learn more about this community, read on about what it means to be asexual.

The asexual flag today

The asexual pride flag was created by Asexual visibility and education network (AVEN) user standup in 2010. On the message boards, there was a month-long three-stage poll competition in order to find the perfect ace flag. The standup flag was the flag chosen to represent the asexual community. The flag was voted on by a multitude of community members and extended outside of the country as well. This being said it was agreed upon amongst a variety of asexual community members that this would be the flag to represent this sexuality.

So what does this flag represent? As a whole, the unification of asexual individuals. Below is a breakdown of what the colors and symbols of this flag represent. 

• Purple: Represents community. 
• White: Those who are non-asexual allies and partners.
• Gray: Represents gray-asexuality and demisexuality. 
• Black: Representative of asexuality and non-attraction to others. 

Alternative version of the asexual flag

Although the standup flag is the most common amongst the asexual community, there are a variety of asexual community members who felt like creating new flags to represent asexuality.  

Theflagarchive Flag

This flag was created by Tumblr user theflagarchive in 2020. Below you will find what the colors of this unique alternative flag represents. 

• Dark Blue: Represents the asexual community and its history. 
• Purple: Derivative of the original asexual flag and represents all the asexual identities. 
• Pink: Represents pride, self determination, and acceptance of your sexuality. 
• Cream: Diversity in experience and different kinds of attractions. 

Intersex flag controversy

Although this flag did not cause any intense controversy, there are still comments being made about the flag by the asexual community that are worth talking about. 

For instance, some community members do not like the use of the white stripe that represents those who are non-asexual allies and partners. Some have gone as far as saying it would be like adding a “straight” stripe to the rainbow queer flag. 

Another issue that some community members had with the flag is that they find the color scheme to be “depressing” and “too dark.” This reason has fueled members to create their own more vibrant versions of the flag such as user theflagarchives above who included the bright colored pink. 

Want to learn more about being asexual?

The typical definition of asexuality is someone who has little to no interest in sexual experiences with others. This being said, it is key to understand that asexuality is an umbrella term and that the spectrum has two orientations: sexual orientation and romantic orientation. This means asexual can mean very different things to different people. If you feel confused about how you might fit into the asexual spectrum, don’t fret! The beauty of asexuality is the flexibility and variety it provides.

Related:

The Philadelphia Pride Flag

The flag was created as a part of the Philadelphia “More Color More Pride” campaign.

With that being said, asexuality can include intersex individuals, lesbian individuals, transgender individuals, and more. There are endless ways to be asexual. It is also important to know that there is a large community of support waiting for you if you decide to come out. You are never alone, and the asexual community is a united force.

Closing thoughts

The bottom line is representation matters. Flags are a necessary tool when it comes to representing a community, identity, or sexuality. Putting up a asexual flag or wearing it on a t-shirt shows appreciation and pride for the community. This is not only important for community members who want to feel unified, but also for visibility purposes. The colors and symbols on a flag show the world what it means to be a part of that community and give everyone a chance to show their pride. 

In addition, be sure to learn about the other identities that make up the LGBTQ+ community subscribe to the INTO newsletter to learn more.