Handkerchief code

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Hankycode

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Handkerchief code

Color Codes

Red-Hanky-Handkerchief-Code

Handkerchief code, also known as the hanky code, bandana code, or flagging, is a form of sexual signaling or non-verbal communication used primarily among the gay male community. It involves the wearing of colored handkerchiefs in the back pocket, which indicates the wearer's sexual preferences and interests. The practice originated in the United States in the late 1960s and became a part of the larger LGBTQ+ culture, serving as a discreet method for individuals to express their sexual desires and fetishes in a time when open expression was not safe or accepted.

History

The handkerchief code emerged in San Francisco and New York City's gay male communities in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was a time when the gay rights movement was gaining momentum, but societal acceptance was still limited. The code developed as a way for gay men to communicate their sexual interests in environments where verbal communication could lead to exposure, discrimination, or violence. It drew inspiration from the traditional practice of wearing bandanas in the back pockets among cowboys, miners, and railroad workers, which was a practical way to carry them.

Meaning and Usage

The colors and patterns of the handkerchiefs signify different sexual preferences, roles, and fetishes. For example, a dark blue handkerchief indicates an interest in anal sex, while light blue signifies oral sex. The side of the body on which the handkerchief is worn also communicates the wearer's preferred role: left for the active or dominant role and right for the passive or submissive role. Over time, the code expanded to include a wide variety of preferences and activities, from specific fetishes to safer sex practices.

Cultural Impact

The handkerchief code played a significant role in the development of gay male culture and identity. It provided a means for individuals to navigate sexual encounters more safely and efficiently, especially in a pre-digital era when other forms of LGBTQ+ communication were limited. The code also fostered a sense of community and belonging among its users, who shared a common language and set of symbols.

While the handkerchief code is less commonly used today, with the advent of digital communication and dating platforms, it remains an important part of LGBTQ+ history and culture. It is celebrated in Pride events and LGBTQ+ gatherings, serving as a reminder of the community's resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.

Contemporary Relevance

In contemporary times, the handkerchief code is often referenced in LGBTQ+ media, art, and fashion as a symbol of pride and historical awareness. While newer generations may not use the code with the same frequency or necessity as in the past, it continues to be recognized as a significant cultural artifact. The code's legacy also highlights the importance of coded languages and signals in LGBTQ+ history, reflecting the community's strategies for survival and connection in hostile environments.

See Also

• LGBTQ+ symbols
• Gay cruising
• Non-verbal communication
• Sexual fetishism