This week, Philadelphia revealed an updated rainbow flag that it said better represented the racial diversity of the LGBT community.

 

The new flag includes both a black stripe and a brown stripe as a way to acknowledge queer people of color.

 

“When I see the flag,” Amber Hikes, Philadelphia’s director of LGBT Affairs, explained, “I see myself. The new design is a symbolic representation of Philadelphia’s commitment to centering the experiences, contributions, activism and dedication of black and brown members of our community. To me, this flag says: ‘We see you. We honor you. We celebrate you. You’re not just a part of us. You are us.’”

 

Part of the reason for the change was to address growing concerns about racial bias within the city's gay community. Last year, video was released of Darryl DePiano, owner of the popular gay nightclub ICandy, using the N-word multiple times in a private meeting. And a city report recommended that employees of the Mazzoni Center, an LGBTQ health care provider and an AIDs service organization, undergo bias training following a series of complaints.

 

The change to the flag is a small part of a larger campaign to encourage greater inclusivity within the LGBT community. "More Color More Pride" also includes a website, swag and an online video.

 

 

There has been some pushback against the campaign. Some people have argued that the rainbow flag and "gay pride" have nothing to do with race. The colors, in fact, have specific meanings: life (red), healing (orange), sunlight (yellow), nature (green), harmony/peace (blue), and spirit (purple/violet).

 

Hike dismissed the criticism as coming from white gay men.

 

"White people do not know what racism looks like, because that's the definition of racism," Hikes said.

 

The mayor spoke out in support of the change.

 

“I’m proud to join the LGBTQ community in the fight for justice, equality and stand in solidarity with all members of the LGBTQ Community,” said Mayor Jim Kenney.