The Pride of LGBT Tartan: A Celebration of Identity and Heritage
by Teejay Smith on Jun 26, 2024
Table of Content
As tartan enthusiasts from all over the world, we come from diverse backgrounds that are as varied as the different patterns of tartan. And now, we have another reason to celebrate our love for this traditional Scottish fabric - the official Pride of LGBT tartan.
How LGBT Tartan Represents Inclusivity and Belonging
Symbolism of Tartan
Unity in Diversity
Embracing Identity
The Pride of LGBT Tartan
The Pride of LGBT Tartan is officially recognized by the Scottish Registrar of Tartans. It was created on June 1, 2017 and registered by Brian Wilton, known as “The Tartan Ambassador”. Wilton is a renowned tartan expert and author who has been commissioned to create a wide variety of tartans, from personalized family designs to event-specific tartans, such as for the Ethos Energy Conference.
The Pride of LGBT Tartan pays homage to the watershed moment for the modern LGBT movement, which arose from a series of protests in New York in 1969. This tartan is based on the New York City tartan and incorporates a variety of bright colors used to represent the movement worldwide. By combining traditional tartan design with these vibrant colors, it celebrates the diversity and unity of the LGBT community.
Rainbow Tartan (Gay Community)
The Rainbow Tartan, designed by Ronnie Hek, holds a special place in fashion history. Created on September 1, 2000, and registered before the official launch of The Scottish Register of Tartans, this tartan was particularly intended for the gay community. This design choice stirred considerable controversy within the conventional Scottish Tartans Society, reportedly leading to a dismissal.
Despite the Scottish Tartans Authority's policy against recording tartans with duplicate names, the Rainbow Tartan faced an unusual situation. A tartan with the same name, created by Aljean of Canada, had existed for about 25 years prior. However, the practice of not checking existing tartan names before designing new ones led to the Authority having to accept this as a fait accompli.
The Rainbow Tartan, incorporating the vibrant colors of the rainbow—a symbol adopted by the gay community—became one of the trendiest fabrics. It is now widely available in various garments and gifts, celebrated for its unique connection to LGBTQ+ pride and identity.
Out & Proud (LGBTQIA+) Tartan
The Out & Proud (LGBTQIA+) Tartan, designed by Steven Patrick Sim—also known as The Tartan Artisan—was created on June 28, 2017, and officially registered on June 1, 2022. This fashion tartan, protected under UK IPO Registered Design No. #6085117, is managed exclusively by the designer for all weaving, tailoring, and commercial uses. For permissions, Sim can be contacted at TartanLicense@theTartanArtisan.com.
Inspired by the diverse LGBTQIA+ community, the Out & Proud Tartan reflects the essence of the 1979 Pride Flag created by the late American artist and activist Gilbert Baker. The tartan incorporates the flag's six rainbow colors, each with a specific meaning: Red for life, Orange for healing, Yellow for sunlight, Green for nature, Blue for serenity, and Violet for spirit. It also pays homage to the Stonewall riots in New York City in June 1969, a pivotal event in the gay rights movement.
The design includes 69 light grey threads, symbolizing both the year of the Stonewall riots and Sim's birth year, marking his journey. Additionally, 48 dark grey threads represent the age at which Sim achieved self-acceptance. The gradual transition from dark grey to light grey within the tartan design symbolizes the process of coming out and finding serenity in self-acceptance.
Symbolism in LGBT Tartan
Each color in the LGBT Tartan holds a special meaning. For instance, red stands for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit. These colors are arranged in a pattern that reflects the traditional tartan style while also embracing the rainbow flag, a well-known symbol of the LGBT movement. The design is a beautiful tapestry that showcases the diversity and unity within the LGBT community.
Color Meanings in LGBT Tartan
Red: Symbolizes life and vitality. It’s the starting point of the rainbow, indicating the essence of living.
Orange: Represents healing and recovery. It’s a warm, inviting color that highlights the importance of mental and physical health.
Yellow: Stands for sunlight and positivity. Yellow brings a sense of optimism and happiness, reflecting a bright future.
Green: Denotes nature and growth. It emphasizes the community’s connection to the environment and the importance of nurturing relationships.
Blue: Symbolizes harmony and peace. Blue is calming and serene, representing the community’s desire for acceptance and unity.
Purple: Represents spirit and individuality. Purple is often associated with creativity and uniqueness, celebrating the diverse identities within the LGBT community.
The Significance of Pride: Celebrating Diversity and Embracing Identity
Commemorating Progress
Visibility and Representation
Advocacy and Solidarity
Wearing the Pride of LGBT tartan is a form of advocacy and solidarity with the LGBT community. It sends a clear message of support for equal rights and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This act of solidarity helps create a more inclusive and compassionate society for future generations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pride of LGBT tartan is more than just a fashionable accessory or a tribute to Scottish heritage. It is a powerful symbol of inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance that represents the essence of the LGBT community and its ongoing fight for equality. It serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to proudly embrace their identity and be accepted for who they are.
So whether you are a member of the LGBT community, an ally, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of tartan, the Pride of LGBT tartan is a must-have addition to your wardrobe. And as we continue to celebrate Pride and advocate for equality, let us do so while proudly wearing this vibrant and meaningful tartan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Pride Tartan?
Yes, there is a Pride Tartan known as the Pride of LGBT Tartan. Designed by Brian Wilton, it incorporates the colors of the LGBTQ+ pride flag into a traditional Scottish tartan pattern, symbolizing unity and diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.
What does the Pride of Scotland Tartan mean?
The Pride of Scotland Tartan is a distinct tartan that symbolizes Scottish heritage and pride. While it is not specifically an LGBTQ+ tartan, it reflects the rich cultural traditions and history of Scotland, much like how the Pride of LGBT Tartan reflects the pride and unity of the LGBTQ+ community.
What is the Pride of LGBT Tartan?
The Pride of LGBT Tartan is a unique tartan design that combines traditional Scottish tartan patterns with the vibrant colors of the LGBTQ+ pride flag. It symbolizes unity, diversity, and pride within the LGBTQ+ community.
What inspired the creation of the Pride of LGBT Tartan?
The tartan was inspired by the significant events of the modern LGBT movement, particularly the 1969 protests in New York City. It was designed to pay homage to all those involved in these pivotal moments and to celebrate the global identity and solidarity of the LGBTQ+ community.
Teejay Smith
As someone who is interested in life issue, especially holidays and anniversaries. I’m here to share info that I hope you find interesting and helpful. Think of me as your buddy, making the everyday a bit more fun and the special moments a touch more awesome
