Leather Pride flag

Leather Pride flag‏‎

The Leather Pride flag‏‎ is a symbol used by the leather community to signify leather pride and leather culture. The flag was designed by Tony DeBlase and was first displayed on May 28, 1989, at the International Mr. Leather contest in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Design

The Leather Pride flag consists of nine horizontal stripes of equal width. From the top and from the bottom, the stripes alternate black and royal blue. The central stripe is white. In the upper left quadrant of the flag is a large red heart. The colors and symbols of the flag have not been officially defined by DeBlase, leaving interpretation to the individual.

History

The Leather Pride flag was designed by Tony DeBlase, who was an active member of the leather community and a publisher of Drummer, a magazine that was dedicated to the leather culture. The flag was first displayed at the International Mr. Leather event in Chicago in 1989. Since then, it has been adopted by various groups within the leather community and is now recognized worldwide.

Symbolism

While DeBlase did not provide official meanings for the colors and symbols of the Leather Pride flag, many interpretations have been suggested. The black and blue stripes are often seen as representing the colors of leather and denim, two materials commonly associated with the leather community. The white stripe is sometimes interpreted as representing purity, while the red heart is often seen as a symbol of love and passion.

Usage

The Leather Pride flag is used by individuals, organizations, and events associated with the leather community to express pride and solidarity. It is often displayed at Pride parades, leather contests, and other events related to the leather culture.

See also

• BDSM
• Fetish fashion
• Gay pride
• Leather subculture