Why are rainbows a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride?

Bustle spoke with Jonathan Katz about the origins of the rainbow flag, a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride. Questions remain if it’s the work of artist Gilbert Baker. “[Baker] is the one who has been credited with it. He claimed it. He was insistent that it was his,” said Katz. “What’s more, Baker didn’t get any direct financial gain out of it — he actually fought to keep it free for public use, per the ACLU. [But there are some] who say [Baker] copied it from others.”