As San Francisco gears up for Pride Week, a significant symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and remembrance was installed on the hills above the city early Saturday morning—the Pink Triangle. For over 30 years, this powerful emblem has stood as a reminder of both the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the ongoing fight for rights, particularly in light of recent federal actions perceived as targeting gay and transgender individuals.
The Pink Triangle, originally used by the Nazis to identify and persecute suspected homosexuals during the Holocaust, is now a vibrant show of defiance and solidarity. Founder Patrick Carney, who has overseen the project for its entire three-decade history, reflects on its origins. “The first one went up in the dark of night, and we thought it was just sort of a fluke to add a little color to the parade,” he said. Its enduring presence now aims to educate new generations about the historical context of the symbol. He emphasizes the importance of remembering the past as part of the celebration of Pride.
This year’s installation drew more than 800 participants, the largest turnout yet, reflecting a community’s collective resilience amid rising challenges. “And it shows that we still need it. That many people wouldn’t show up if this project wasn’t needed,” Carney noted, highlighting a strong sense of purpose among attendees.
Local leaders echoed this sentiment, framing this year’s Pride celebrations as a crucial moment for many social justice causes. San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman asserted that Pride is now about more than just LGBTQ+ rights—it is about defending the very principles of the American republic. California Assemblymember Matt Haney pointed out that the Pink Triangle serves as a constant reminder of what the community stands for, adding a personal touch by wearing a cap from the Navy ship named after gay rights pioneer Harvey Milk— a ship now being forced to change its name, which he decried as an erasure of history.
The Pink Triangle will be on display throughout June, serving as a dual reminder of the atrocities of the past and a beacon of hope and defiance against oppression. As Carney humorously remarked on his commitment to the project, “Persistence, longevity, stubbornness, I’m still here.” The Pink Triangle continues to evolve in its symbolism, representing not just the pain of the past but a powerful stand against discrimination and a celebration of diversity and identity.
This year’s heightened emphasis on the Pink Triangle resonates with many, emphasizing its relevance and necessity in the current sociopolitical climate.