Leather Pride Flag

Author: Sexual Diversity
Author Contact: Sexual Diversity (SexualDiversity.org)
Published: 12th Nov 2022 - Updated: 17th Nov 2022
Peer-Reviewed Publication: N/A
Additional References: LGBTQ+ Pride Flags Publications

Summary: The nine-striped black, blue and white leather pride flag was designed to provide representation to the international leather community.

Main Document

The leather pride flag is a symbol used by the leather subculture since the 1990s. It was designed by Tony DeBlase, who first presented the design at International Mister Leather in Chicago on May 28, 1989. The gay leather community quickly embraced the leather pride flag. It has since become associated with Leather in general and also with related groups such as the BDSM community.

Also known as black and blue with love, the leather pride flag is not associated with any particular sexual orientation - though it's used most commonly by gay men - instead indicates an interest in kink. The leather subculture is somewhat hard to define as it encompasses various activities. In general, they all involve two things: leather and sex, although, in modern times, it's also used for BDSM - which doesn't necessarily include leather.

Despite its popularity in the gay leather scene, the flag is not just a gay symbol; it symbolizes the whole leather community.

What the Leather Pride Flag Colors Mean

The flag comprises nine horizontal stripes of equal width. The alternate stripes are black and royal blue from the top and bottom. The central stripe is white. In the upper left quadrant of the flag is a large red heart. DeBlase has stated that he intends for each person to interpret the shapes and colors of the Flag as they wish.

Leather Pride Flag

Image of the leather pride flag consisting of nine equal stripes alternating black and royal blue with the central stripe being white. In the upper left corner of the flag is a large red heart.