The seven colors of the rainbow became a flag and fly in the sky of Cusco. When they see it, many travelers confuse it or believe it is the emblem of LGBTQ+ pride, which arouses their curiosity to know more about this symbol that generates controversy.
Between the strangeness of some and the incomprehension of others, the fundamental thing is to understand that beyond their obvious similarities, the Cusco flag and the LGBTQ+ pride flag represent different identities and struggles.
Keep in mind that both symbols express the history and heritage of specific communities, in addition to reflecting their values, beliefs and struggles. The two flags have a deep and personal meaning for those who recognize it as their own.
Knowing that meaning is essential to promote tolerance and understanding between different cultures and identity groups.
In pursuit of that goal, in this article we will help you distinguish the importance of the Cusco flag and that of the LGBTQ+ movement. Their full recognition will contribute to the promotion of diversity and inclusion in our globalized society.
Like other pre-Columbian cultures, the children of the Sun did not have a flag in the modern sense of the word. In this part of the world, peoples and civilizations created complex systems of visual communication and symbology.
María Rostworowski, a Peruvian historian and researcher, mentions that there were no flags in ancient Peru, but that the Incas had a variety of visual symbols to represent their authority and identity as an empire.
Emblems, banners and textile symbols were used in ceremonies, rituals and battles to identify military units or represent royal authority.
The notion of a flag in the Andean world as we understand it today would emerge with the arrival of the Spanish and the subsequent development of modern nation-states.
It was somewhat strange that Cusco, a city with such deep cultural roots, did not have a flag. The lack of a symbol that would become a factor of integration and identity was the reason why a radio station called for a contest to create it in 1973.
The initiative was received with enthusiasm by the audience of Radio Tahuantinsuyo, eager to have a flag that represented the history and the Inca identity of their land.
The winning design had seven horizontal stripes of equal size with the colors of the rainbow, which represent the cultural and natural diversity of the city and the empire founded by Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo.
On June 9, 1978, Mayor Gilberto Muñiz Caparó established it as the official flag of Cusco. Since then it has been used in official acts, civic ceremonies, regional festivities and social protests.
Far away from Cusco, on June 25, 1978, the American artist and gay activist Gilbert Baker would create the famous flag that represents the diversity and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer).
First displayed at the San Francisco Pride March, its creator was inspired by the rainbow, a colorful, beautiful and universally recognizable natural phenomenon.
The original design had eight colored stripes, to which Baker gave the following meaning: pink (sex), red (life), orange (healing), yellow (sun), green (nature), turquoise (art and magic), blue (serenity) and violet (spirit). In 1979 the pink and turquoise stripes were removed.
But beyond the number of stripes, the flag is a recognizable symbol of solidarity and support for the fight for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, in a world that still discriminates, criminalizes and persecutes people with different sexual orientations and gender identities.
Similar designs, but not identical and, to avoid confusion, we will teach you how to differentiate them:
The Cusco flag has seven horizontal stripes of equal size and vibrant colors. These are usually ordered like this: red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, dark blue and violet.
Since 2021, the Cusco flag bears the Sun of Echenique, a pre-Hispanic piece that is the symbol and shield of the city.
The LGBTQ+ flag has six horizontal stripes. The order of its colors is: red, orange, yellow, green, light blue and violet. Although there are variations in the number and order of the stripes, the basic design is widely recognized as the symbol of the LGBTQ+ community.
Differentiating between flags will allow you to understand the meaning and importance of each one. This will help you avoid misunderstandings and show your consideration for the communities that are represented by both symbols.
It will allow you to better understand the context in which they are used and will lead you to value the importance they have for the people of Cusco and the LGBTQ+ community.
Recognizing the Cusco and LGBTQ+ flags favors and encourages cultural diversity, inclusion, tolerance, and respect for sexual identity. All of these values ??contribute to creating a more just and supportive society.
Cusco is a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine in an astonishing way. From its title of "Imperial City" to the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, this Peruvian city offers you a unique experience. Whether you are interested in archaeology, gastronomy, adventure, or simply enjoying beautiful landscapes, Cusco has something special for you.
The reasons to visit Cusco are plentiful, from its cultural heritage to its natural beauty, and its ability to transport you to a bygone era. The Imperial City is a place that will make you feel part of history and will leave you amazed by its charm.
So, if you are planning your next trip, do not hesitate to consider Cusco as your destination. This corner of Peru awaits you with open arms to show you why it is so special. Discover the magic of Cusco and create unforgettable memories in this unbeatable tourist destination.
