In some places, it may be unsafe to use these flags, and/or more culturally relevant symbols representing the LGBTIQ community may exist instead. It is also important to provide a disclaimer that by no means are LGBTIQ flags necessary to achieve progress in recognition and protection of the human rights of LGBTIQ people. As mentioned previously, new flags are constantly being conceptualized and used, so the ones mentioned here are subject to change. What follows is a non-exhaustive list of flags used by the LGBTIQ community and their allies. While others are constantly being conceptualized and created. Some have evolved, like the original Pride flag created in 1978 by Gilbert Baker and flown at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day parade. There have been many LGBTIQ flags over the years. They are a visible representation of identity that people use in celebration, in protest, or even as a casual adornment. Flags have always been an integral part of the LGBTIQ community.
