Why the Pink? Discussing Masculinity and Gay Rights
At Theragen Counselling and Consulting, Johnathon chose the colour pink for our branding with a purpose that goes beyond aesthetics. Let me tell you why it’s so special to us.
You see, back in the 1970s, pink became widely recognized as a feminine colour. But what’s fascinating is that the association between colours and gender is completely arbitrary. It’s not something dictated by nature but rather a temporary social construct. And here at Theragen, we challenge and break down those constructs every day, celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
If you take a closer look at our branding, you’ll notice a pink triangle. This vibrant symbol is not just a part of our visual identity, but it’s also worn with pride during Pride month. However, its history has deeper roots that touch both LGBTQ history and world history.
During a dark period when the Nazis held power, they forced Jewish people to wear a yellow Star of David as a means of identification. Similarly, those they labeled as gay were made to wear inverted pink triangles, known as “die Rosa-Winkel.” It was an unimaginably difficult time for those marked with the pink triangle, as they were treated as the lowest of the low in the camp hierarchy.
The Nazi persecution of gay individuals can be traced back to a law called “paragraph 175.” Introduced after German unification in 1871, it made acts of “unnatural indecency” between men punishable. While the law was only sporadically enforced, it inadvertently led to the formation of a vibrant gay community as the police mainly kept an eye on gay bars and events. Interestingly, this oppressive law also triggered scientific interest in studying sexual preferences, fostering a more scientific understanding of human sexuality and ultimately contributing to the advancement of gay rights.
By incorporating the pink triangle into our branding, we want to honor the struggles faced by the LGBTQ community throughout history. It’s a symbol of solidarity, resilience, and progress. It reminds us of the importance of supporting and advocating for marginalized groups, standing up against discrimination, and embracing the rich diversity that makes our world so beautiful.
So, when you see our pink branding, know that it represents more than just a color. It represents a commitment to inclusivity, breaking down societal norms, and creating a space where everyone feels valued and accepted. If you’d interested in booking an appointment with a therapist that stands for the above, click here to book now!
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Sources
https://time.com/5295476/gay-pride-pink-triangle-history/