In this episode of A Queer POV: Friends, Loves, & Life, I trace the journey of the rainbow flag, from a small sewing studio in 1978 San Francisco to a global symbol of pride, protest, and belonging.
We meet Gilbert Baker, the artist and activist who stitched color into our collective soul, and explore how his friendship with Harvey Milk turned a simple idea into a lasting emblem of queer identity.
Along the way, I share stories of AIDS-era activism, the meaning of visibility, and what the flag has come to represent in my own life, especially as a gay parent raising a child in today’s world.
This isn’t just queer history.
It is a reminder that Pride began as protest, and that our strength has always come from showing up together.
🎧 Listen now and rediscover the beauty, defiance, and hope sewn into every color of the rainbow.
Hope to see you out in the streets this weekend at Palm Springs Pride!
-David
Resources:
Clip 1 - soundcloud.com/brainpicker
Clip 2 - cbc.ca/radio
Clip 3 - Outcast Media
Clip 4 - cbc.ca/radio
Art
Palm Springs Pride Monument, Created by jimisermann.com
Arenas District Landmark Flagpole
Mentioned at the top of show:
Out of the Blue by Robert Tregoning
Fletcher’s Ice Cream and Cafe
Hailey Bieber Unbothered
