The Pink Triangle

The Pink Triangle

I have always wondered what this symbol meant for gays and lesbians. I knew though, that it had something to do with the identification system used by the Nazis to identify "sexual deviants", which included homosexuals, during the Holocaust. The triangle was also larger than the other "badges" worn by other prisoners so it can be seen from a distance by a Nazi soldier. Prisoners who wear the "pink triangle badge" are subjected to more torture, humiliation and punishment (including death) than those who wore other colored badges. Pink-badged prisoners were also the first victims of the atrocious medical experiments performed at various concentration camps and were also the first to go into the gas chambers. But when the concentration camps were "liberated", those who wore a pink triangle badge remained as prisoners because of the "nature of their crimes". They continued to be harassed, tortured and secluded from everyone else and some were finally let go at the end of World War II.

Every year, since 1991, a group of volunteers always sets up a huge, pink triangle at Twin Peaks in San Francisco. On a clear day, the triangle can be seen for more than 15 miles around. It is very visible for those who happen to be in San Francisco during its world-famous Pride Parade. During the first year, the triangle was set up after dark and there was some mystery as to what "militant gay group" was responsible for it. Today, it is set up by an all-volunteer group and signals the beginning of pride celebration in the city. It is marked by formal speeches by government officials, including the mayor, state representatives and senators, and by guest speakers who somehow, have touched the lives of the community. There even is a letter from former president Bill Clinton acknowledging the symbolism of the pink triangle.

The pink triangle has become the modern gay symbol for freedom, equality and liberty as much as the rainbow flag. Bumper stickers abound, pins stuck on clothing and screenprinted on t-shirts. It has become synonymous with the rainbow flag. It represents the continued struggle for recognition of gays and lesbians by a world that would rather turn its attention to something else.

On the eve of Pride Day in the "gayest" city in the world, let us not forget those who've come before us. Whose struggle should never be forgotten. Let us not forget those who gave up their lives in order for us to live. And let us not forget those who will come after us. May they be free from oppression, hatred and inequality.