EqualLOVE, 14 July 2020, Melendez, Lyanne. LGBT Pride Flags: All the Flags and What They Mean. Flag redesigned in 1979 resulting in the popular six-stripe pride flag used today.Original flag hand sewn and dyed by Baker (aka “Gay Betsy Ross”) hot pink color could not be reproduced in mass production due to fabric shortage and the commercial unavailability of the color.Widely adopted after assassination of Harvey Milk (1st openly gay supervisor in San Fran) as a show of solidarity and strength within the gay community Baker responded to call from activists for a community symbol.Community pride symbol eight stripes represent diversity within the community colors meant to evoke hope, pride, and optimism.
Designed by San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker.