The first co-op rainbow flag was completed in 1924 and was adopted as an official symbol of the international cooperative movement in 1925. He pointed out that the rainbow symbolized unity in diversity and the power of light, enlightenment and progress. After some experiments with different designs, a famous French cooperator, Professor Charles Gide, suggested using the seven colours of the rainbow for the flag. In Essen, Germany in 1922, the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) designed an international co-op symbol and a flag for the first "Co-operators' Day," which was held in July 1923. The rainbow flag has been the cooperative emblem since 1921 when the International Co-operative Congress of World Co-op Leaders met in Basel, Switzerland to identify and define the growing cooperative movement's common values and ideals to help unite co-ops around the world. See also: International Co-operative Alliance § The flagĪ seven-colour rainbow flag is a common symbol of the international cooperative movement. Rainbow flags in various cultures and movements Reformation (1525) There are several independent rainbow flags in use today. The pride flag has represented gay pride since 1978 and evolved into a symbol of the LGBT movement. Since 1961, the international peace flag, also known as the PACE flag, has been especially popular in Italy and to a lesser extent Europe and the rest of the world. 1920) is used in Andean indigenism in Peru and Bolivia to represent the legacy of the Inca Empire. The International Co-operative Alliance adopted a rainbow flag in 1925. Ĭontemporary international uses of a rainbow flag dates to the beginning of the 20th century. In the 18th century, American Revolutionary War writer Thomas Paine proposed that a rainbow flag be used as a maritime flag to signify neutral ships in time of war. 5 Use of rainbow flag colors in different designs.4 Use of rainbow flag in various settings.2.6 LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) Pride (1978).2.2 Armenian Republic proposed flag (1919).2 Rainbow flags in various cultures and movements.