THEGAYUK

Tag: Lesbian

All the latest breaking news on the Lesbian community. Browse The THEGAYUK’s complete collection of features and commentary on the Lesbian community.

  • Where did the Lesbian Labrys flag come from?

    Where did the Lesbian Labrys flag come from?

    The lesbian community has had its fair share of pride flags, from the now outdated Lipstick Lesbian to the Community Lesbian flag which was released in 2019.

    The lesbian labrys is one of the longest-serving flags and has an interesting history dating back to 1999.

    The history of the Labrys flag to represent lesbians dates back to 1999, when a gay designer, who worked for the Palm Springs Gay and Lesbian Times called Sean Campbell created what is known as a the Labrys flag.

    The lesbian labrys flag, a symbol specifically representing the lesbian community, was created in 1999 by graphic designer Sean Campbell. The flag features a labrys, an ancient double-headed axe, set against a background of black and violet.

    Here’s a breakdown of its components and symbolism:

    • Labrys: The labrys is an ancient symbol associated with Greek and Roman mythology, often linked to the Amazons, who were mythologized as a race of warrior women. The labrys was adopted as a symbol of strength and empowerment within the lesbian community.
    • Black Triangle: The black triangle was originally used in Nazi concentration camps to identify “asocial” and “work-shy” individuals, which included lesbians. It has since been reclaimed by the lesbian community as a symbol of resilience and resistance.
    • Violet Background: The color violet has historical associations with the lesbian and feminist movements. For instance, the lavender menace was a term used by Betty Friedan in 1969 to describe the threat she felt lesbianism posed to the feminist movement, which was later reclaimed by lesbian feminists as a badge of honor.

    The Labrys flag is a dark purple flag, with a black triangle in the centre, on top of which is a battle axe. Although it’s not considered the main lesbian flag, it rose in popularity with some lesbians and feminists due to the popular empowerment publication, Labrys Magazine.

    Colours and Meanings

    Association with Sappho (the poet).

    From the inverted black triangle

    The labrys symbol represents strength and self-sufficiency

    Colour codes

    #993399

    #000000

    #FFFFFF

  • 15 Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas: Thoughtful Presents to Spark Love and Joy!

    15 Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas: Thoughtful Presents to Spark Love and Joy!

    Discover the magic of the season with our Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas guide! Unwrap the joy and find thoughtful presents that celebrate love and unity. From stylish accessories to cosy essentials, explore the perfect gifts to make this Christmas merry and bright for the lesbians in your life. 🌈🎁✨

    Here’s our top Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas

    Merry Catmas Mug and Chocolate

    Lesbians and their cats… A troupe or the truth? Well, if your lesbian pal loves cats then they’re gonna love this Merry Catmas mug featuring the Lesbian Community flag colours and a Lindt Chocolate Gold Reindeer. We think it’s one of those great Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas that will delight your pussy loving friends.

    Get it here

    Coffee Table Books

    Kick off your gift-giving extravaganza with a coffee table book that’s a total game-changer. Our curated selection includes must-haves like “The Queer Bible,” “Queer X Design,” and “The Queen’s English.” These titles bring a uniquely queer perspective, perfect for your discerning non-binary, trans, or genderqueer loved ones. Explore THE PRIDE SHOP’s full LGBTQ+ book collection for more fabulous finds. 🌈📚

    Get it here

    Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas

    Handmade Bracelet with Swarovski® element

    These bracelets are handmade in the UK by expert jewellery makers and feature world-famous Swarovski crystals for a wonderfully unique gift. It’s one of our favourite Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas for 2023.

    Get it here

    Frida Kahlo Jigsaw Puzzle

    Frida Kahlo is a lesbian icon and anything of hers makes for Lesbian Christmas Gift Ideas

    Piece together artists, artworks and surroundings to bring Frida Kahlo’s world to life in this colourful 1000-piece puzzle. The completed puzzle measures 68 x 48.5cm, and the puzzle image is reprinted on the inside lid with over 20 footnotes, which reveal all the interesting things to discover in the puzzle and the meaning behind them.

    Get it here

    Forever Flower In A Tin

    These cross-grain roses are presented as a forever gift in a tin box with a clear lid. The rose is handmade in the UK and uses Lesbian LGBTQ+ colours. It’s a beautiful gift that will last forever.

    Get It Here

    Lesbian Flag Mug

    Sip your pride with our Lesbian Community Flag Mug! This ceramic masterpiece features the vibrant lesbian flag and boldly declares #Proud in crisp white. Start your day with a cup of confidence and showcase your pride in style. It’s not just a mug; it’s a statement. 🌈☕✨ #ProudLesbian

    Get it here

    Lesbian Colouring Book

    Unleash your creativity with our Lesbian Colouring Book! Dive into a world of inclusive and empowering illustrations, celebrating love and diversity. This delightful colouring book is filled with enchanting designs that capture the spirit of the lesbian community. Relax, colour, and let your imagination flourish with every stroke. 🌈🎨✨

    Get it here

    Colouring Pencils

    The perfect colouring book companion. The set of 24 artist-quality pencils comes in a sturdy box that converts into a two-tiered pencil stand for easy access and organization; the 10 Bright Ideas pencils each carry a quirky and encouraging phrase printed on the barrel.

    Get it here

    The Lesbian Elf Christmas Jumper

    Get it here

    Lesbian Gift Box

    Select a gift for your lesbian pals from PrideBox.co.uk – a letterbox gifting service for the LGBTQ+ community – starting from £9.99.

    Get it here

    Rainbow Candle

    This candle is designed by Anna Cella and is made from 100% organic soy wax and features vibrant colours that make up the LGBTQ+ rainbow flag.

    Get it here

    Trust the Triangle

    Fashion faux pas, dating dilemmas, career crises – whatever life throws you, you can count on these cards to tell it like it is, the way a best friend should. Each card has a question on one side. Pick the one that suits your situation – or that piques your curiosity – and then read the words in each corner of the card.

    Get it here

    Lesbian Flag Earrings

    Get it here

    Lesbian Nag Champa Incense Set

    This multipack of Incense sticks is perfect for adding some fragrance to your room for relaxation, meditation or just to chill out on a lazy Sunday. This pack contains Celestial Bliss (Dark Red) Pyramids (Red) Positive Vibes (White) Rose (Pink) Reiki (Purple) – the colours of the official lesbian community flag.

    This popular Satya Nag Champa brand is made in India.

    Get it here

    Miriam Margoyles

    She’s one of the UK’s most famous lesbians and well, one of the UK’s national treasures. This fearless woman shares her life story in only a way that Miriam can!

    Get it here

  • Do all Lesbians really love cats?

    Do all Lesbians really love cats?

    The association between lesbians and cats is a stereotype that has been perpetuated in popular culture for many years. The origins of this trope are not definitively traced to one specific source, but it has been reinforced and popularised through various media representations.

    Here are a few factors that may have contributed to the lesbian and cats stereotype:

    1. Cultural Depictions: Cats have often been portrayed as independent, free-spirited animals in literature, art, and media. Lesbians, too, have been depicted as independent and strong-willed, creating a potential association.
    2. Comedic Stereotypes: In comedy, stereotypes are sometimes used for humour. The idea of a single woman living with her cats has been a comedic trope for a long time, and this may have influenced the stereotype.
    3. Internet Memes and Trends: In the age of the internet, memes and trends can quickly spread and reinforce stereotypes. Images, jokes, and content associating lesbians with cats have circulated online.
    4. Visibility of Lesbians in Media: Lesbians have historically been underrepresented in mainstream media. When they are depicted, the portrayal might rely on simplified or exaggerated characteristics, leading to the reinforcement of stereotypes.

    It’s crucial to approach stereotypes critically and recognize that individuals, including lesbians, are diverse with a wide range of interests and preferences.

    While some lesbians may love cats, it is not a universal trait, and assumptions based on stereotypes can perpetuate misconceptions.

  • BIG GAY GLOSSARY: Lesbian

    What is a lesbian?

    A lesbian is a woman who is romantically, emotionally, or sexually attracted to other women. Lesbianism is a sexual orientation that forms part of the broader spectrum of human sexuality.

    Where did the word lesbian come from?

    The word “lesbian” derives from the Greek island of Lesbos, which was the birthplace of the ancient Greek poet Sappho. Sappho’s poems often expressed her love and attraction towards other women, and over time, her name became associated with female homosexuality. Therefore, the term “lesbian” gradually came to refer to women who have romantic, emotional, or sexual attractions to other women.

    Is the word lesbian controversial?

    The word “lesbian” itself is not inherently controversial. However, like any term related to sexual orientation, it can be a source of controversy when used inappropriately or with prejudice. It is important to respect and acknowledge the diversity of sexual orientations and to create a supportive and inclusive society for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. Using the term “lesbian” in a respectful and inclusive manner contributes to a more inclusive and understanding society.

    Why do some women use lesbian while others use gay?

    The terms “lesbian” and “gay” are often used interchangeably to describe individuals who are attracted to the same sex. However, there may be personal preferences or cultural influences that lead some women to identify as lesbians while others may prefer the term gay.

    In general, the term “lesbian” is more commonly used by women who are exclusively attracted to other women, emphasizing their specific sexual orientation. On the other hand, the term “gay” can be used by both men and women to describe their same-sex attractions.

    Is there a lesbian flag?

    Yes, there is a lesbian flag. The most commonly recognized lesbian flag consists of horizontal stripes of different shades of orange and pink, with a white stripe in the centre. The orange stripes represent gender non-conformity, the pink stripes represent femininity, and the white stripe represents the inclusivity of all genders.

    Who are some famous lesbians?

    Ellen is a famous Lesbian

    Here are a few examples of famous lesbians:

    1. Ellen DeGeneres: Ellen DeGeneres is a renowned comedian, television host, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She came out as a lesbian in 1997 and has since become an influential figure in the LGBTQ+ community.
    2. Jodie Foster: Jodie Foster is an acclaimed actress and director. While she initially kept her sexuality private, she publicly acknowledged her relationship with her long-time partner, Alexandra Hedison, in 2013.
    3. Megan Rapinoe: Megan Rapinoe is a professional soccer player who gained international recognition as a key member of the United States women’s national soccer team. She is openly gay and has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
    4. Portia de Rossi: Portia de Rossi is an Australian-American actress known for her roles in television shows like “Ally McBeal” and “Arrested Development.” She is married to Ellen DeGeneres and has been open about her identity as a lesbian.

    Please note that this is just a small selection of famous lesbians, and there are many more individuals who have contributed significantly to various fields while being open about their sexual orientation.

    Can a trans woman be a lesbian?

    Yes, trans women can be lesbians however some also use the term Transbian. A trans woman is someone who was assigned male at birth but identifies and lives as a woman. However, there is some controversy surrounding the issue of who can be and identify as gay or lesbian within some sections of the LGBTQ+ community and can be open to debate.

    Some people determine that sexual orientation is based on sexual biology and others determine it by gender identity. It is always best to ask how someone might identify rather than make assumptions.

  • 12 Awesome Lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    12 Awesome Lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    Lesbian Visibility Week is a week-long celebration of lesbian identity, visibility, and empowerment. It was founded by DIVA publisher Linda Riley in 2020 to celebrate and raise awareness of the experiences, challenges, and achievements of lesbians and all LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people. The week aims to increase the visibility of lesbians in various spheres of society, including politics, media, culture, and the arts. It is typically observed in the last week of April each year. There are also Lesbian Visibility Days in July and October.

    Here are 12 awesome lesbians to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week

    Hannah Gadsby, the acclaimed Australian stand-up comedian, is using their platform to advocate for trans rights. Gadsby publicly criticized Netflix for featuring Dave Chappelle, who made a number of derogatory jokes about the trans community in one of his specials for the streaming service.

    Jill Scott, the esteemed footballer, was a member of the England Women’s team that won the Euro 2022 championship, and later became the reigning champion of the jungle in the popular TV show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

    Lady Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, the co-founder of UK Black Pride, was instrumental in the organization’s record-breaking event in 2022, which attracted over 25,000 participants. She was also awarded an honorary doctorate by London South Bank University in recognition of her contributions to the community.

    Lea DeLaria, a butch icon, has been a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community since the 1980s and continues to use stand-up comedy as a form of activism.

    Lena Waithe, a screenwriter, producer, and actor, is committed to increasing the representation of people of colour and queer artists in the film and television industries.

    Lily Tomlin, the celebrated comedian, actor, and star of “Grace & Frankie,” has used her platform to speak out against anti-trans legislation in Florida, describing the proposed bills as a “travesty.”

    Mary Trump, the lesbian niece of former US President Donald Trump, worked tirelessly to campaign against her uncle and his bid for re-election.

    Mhairi Black, the youngest person ever elected to the UK’s House of Commons, is a vocal advocate for trans rights and has fought for reforms to the Gender Recognition Act.

    Raven-Symoné, the iconic Disney star, used her influence to pressure her employer to publicly condemn Florida’s discriminatory “Don’t Say Gay” bill in 2022.

    Rosie Jones, a British comedian and actor with cerebral palsy, is a strong advocate for greater representation of people with disabilities in the comedy industry. She is actively working to break down barriers and promote inclusivity in the field.

    Wanda Sykes, an actor, comedian, and writer, is using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ equality for all members of the queer community. She is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the LGBTQ+ movement.

    Stormé DeLarverie was a butch lesbian and a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist. She is often credited with playing a significant role in the Stonewall uprising, which was a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. According to Stormé and many eyewitnesses, her scuffle with police on the night of June 28, 1969, outside the Stonewall Inn in New York City, was the catalyst that ignited the uprising, inspiring the crowd to resist and fight back against police oppression. Stormé passed away on May 24, 2014, at the age of 93.

    Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week
    Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com. Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week
  • When is International Lesbian Day in 2021?

    When is International Lesbian Day in 2021?

    International Lesbian Day is an annual day to celebrate and bring visibility to lesbians in the LGBT+ community, it has been going since the 1990s. There is also the Lesbian Visibility Day, which has been observed since 2008.

    In 2021 International Lesbian Day takes place on the 8th October 2021 and is mainly observed in Australia and New Zealand.

    When in International Lesbian Day in 2021?
    (C) BIGSTOCK / DEPOSITPHOTO

    International Lesbian Day was first observed in the 1990s and was created to ensure the visibility of the lesbian community.

    What are the colours of the Lesbian Pride flag?

    where can I buy lesbian jewellery

    There are, in fact, now three lesbian flags. One is known as the Labrys flag, which features a battle-axe on a dark purple background. The other is what is the “lipstick lesbian” flag which consists of six shades of red and pink colours and a white bar in the centre. Sometimes it has a lipstick mark in the corner denoting that the holder is a “lipstick lesbian”. There is also now a “community Lesbian flag, which includes an orange stripe, that was introduced in 2019.

    Can you buy lesbian jewellery or gifts?

    Yes, there are many stores which have gifts which have the lesbian colours assigned to them. Check out the amazing lesbian gift and jewellery range from our partner site, The Pride Shop.

    To find out other days in the LGBT+ calendar click here.

  • When is International Lesbian Day in 2020?

    When is International Lesbian Day in 2020?

    International Lesbian Day is an annual day to celebrate and bring visibility to lesbians in the LGBT+ community, it has been going since the 1990s. There is also the Lesbian Visibility Day, which has been observed since 2008.

    In 2020 International Lesbian Day takes place on the 8th October 2020 and is mainly observed in Australia and New Zealand.

    When in International Lesbian Day in 2020?
    (C) BIGSTOCK / DEPOSITPHOTO

    International Lesbian Day was first observed in the 1990s and was created to ensure the visibility of the lesbian community.

    What are the colours of the Lesbian Pride flag?

    There are, in fact, two lesbian flags. One is known as the Labrys flag, which features a battle-axe on a dark purple background. The other is what is considered the standard lesbian flag which consists of six shades of red and pink colours and a white bar in the centre. Sometimes it has a lipstick mark in the corner denoting that the holder is a “lipstick lesbian”.

    Can you buy lesbian jewellery or gifts?

    Yes, there are many stores which have gifts which have the lesbian colours assigned to them. Check out the amazing lesbian gift and jewellery range from our partner site, The Pride Shop.

    To find out other days in the LGBT+ calendar click here.

  • When is Lesbian Visibility Day in 2020?

    (C) BIGSTOCK / DEPOSITPHOTO

    Lesbian Visibility Day is an annual day to celebrate and bring visibility to lesbians in the LGBT+ community. There is also the International Lesbian Day, which has been observed since the 1990s.

    In 2020 Lesbian Visibility Day takes place on the 26th of April.

    Lesbian Visibility Day was first observed in 2008 and was created to ensure the visibility of the lesbian community.

    What are the colours of the Pansexual Pride flag?

    There are, in fact, two lesbian flags. One is know as the Labrys flag, which features a battle-axe on a dark purple background. The other is what is considered the standard lesbian flag which consists of six shades of red and pink colours and a white bar in the centre. Sometimes it has a lipstick mark in the corner denoting that the holder is a “lipstick lesbian”.

    Can you buy lesbian jewellery or gifts?

    Yes, there are many stores which have gifts which have the lesbian colours assigned to them. Check out the amazing lesbian gift and jewellery range from our partner site, The Pride Shop.

    To find out other days in the LGBT+ calendar click here.

  • BIG GAY GLOSSARY | Transplaining

    BIG GAY GLOSSARY | Transplaining

    What is ‘Transplaining’?What is PrEP?

    Pippa Catterall a transgender woman and Professor of History and Policy at the University of Westminster helped us with this explanation of what transplaining means.

    She told us,

    “Transitive verb with similar connotations to mansplain.

    “It can be used to describe the ways in which some well-meaning trans people pontificate about their transition experiences and processes as if they are the only authentic or right ones.”

    Can you expand this definition? Use the comments below and your answer could be used to expand or define this glossary entry.

    Check out more definitions in our Big Gay Glossary

  • BIG GAY GLOSSARY | Transbian

    BIG GAY GLOSSARY | Transbian

    What is a ‘Transbian’?What is PrEP?

    Pippa Catterall a transgender woman and Professor of History and Policy at the University of Westminster helped us with this explanation of what transbian means.

    She told us,

    “A transgender woman who is attracted to either transgendered or cis women. It is used to differentiate from cis women who have a lesbian sexual orientation.

    “Not all trans women are comfortable with the term, as it can be seen as denying their transition. Some lesbians are also very hostile to the term, despite the attempt to differentiate, particularly those who essentialize gender and therefore deny that gender transitions can even occur”

    Can you expand this definition? Use the comments below and your answer could be used to expand or define this glossary entry.

    Check out more definitions in our Big Gay Glossary

  • OPINION | Why aren’t lesbians the default when it comes to ‘ground breaking’ decisions like Dancing On Ice’s same-sex couple reveal

    OPINION | Why aren’t lesbians the default when it comes to ‘ground breaking’ decisions like Dancing On Ice’s same-sex couple reveal

    Dr Gemma Commane, lecturer in Media and Communication at Birmingham City University, says it’s important to question what this Dancing On Ice on a same-sex couple introduction change really means and the conversations it will create.

    OPINION | Lesbians are often overlooked or are subject to ‘tragic’ storylines and they are given less space to occupy.

    “Although it’s timely for Dancing On Ice to have a same-sex couple, it’s important to understand that decisions are political and have economic reasons,” said Dr Commane.

    “In this case, examples could be sustainability for the television show, maintenance of the brand and audience expectations.

    “We need to carefully think about what privilege means and what privilege looks like. Privilege is complex and it does not simply connect to one aspect of a person’s identity. 

    “Whilst it is fantastic that changes are happening, we need to ask: what do these ‘changes’ actually mean when certain voices and identities are still rendered invisible? 

    “Lesbians are often overlooked or are subject to ‘tragic’ storylines and they are given less space to occupy, especially in primetime television. Why aren’t lesbians the default when it comes to ‘ground breaking’ decisions when introducing same-sex coupling in shows like Dancing On Ice?

    “What would it mean for ‘Dancing On Ice’ to have a lesbian celebrity skating with a same-sex partner?

    “What types of conversations would arise from the media and audiences around this selection? If this had been the case, it would have been interesting to observe how news organisations would respond to an announcement like this and if they would write about the lesbian celebrity in predictable and fetishistic ways.”