As were gearing up for Pride in June: Have you ever wondered how the rainbow flag came to be the international symbol for the LGBTQ+ community? 
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A short history of the rainbow flag  

The rainbow flag was designed by artist Gilbert Baker and first displayed at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade in 1978. It was commissioned by none other than Harvey Milk, who was San Francisco’s City Supervisor that the time and the first openly gay elected official in the history of California. Tragically, Milk was assassinated in November of the same year – but his legacy lives on, in part through the rainbow flag. 

 What do the colors of the rainbow flag stand for? 

The rainbow flag has developed over time. The original design had seven stripes, including hot pink and turquoise. Today, there are many variations, including black and brown stripes for underrepresented people of color or the trans pride colors. Additional flags for bisexual, pansexual and asexual pride exist alongside the “main flag”. 

Get ready for Pride Month  

 Making a statement for LGBTQ+ rights can look different for everyone. Make sure you’re informed on LGBTQ+ issues and let your elected officials know, how you feel about them. Join your city’s annual pride parade to show support for your queer brothers and sisters. The New York pride parade takes place on June 25th – we can’t wait to see our streets flooded by a sea of rainbows.  

Turn your nails into a pride flag 

At heroine.nyc we’re incorporating pride into our manicures for June. We have created a special pride collection that goes beyond just the five original colors of the rainbow flag – but you could include our new shade Orange County for a more “original” look.  

Shop our pride collection 

June 01, 2023