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When you signed up for LOOKOUT, you got a handkerchief that, no doubt, you'll use to stay cool this weekend while playing in the sun. But did you know that the handkerchief color you chose had a specific—and more intimate—purpose when being openly gay and finding a partner who was sexually compatible with you was much tougher?

Take our quick quiz below to find out what that color used to mean!

There's no question that dating apps such as Grindr and Tinder have revolutionized the way individuals find companionship, but they haven't exclusively solved for one basic part of the queer experience: fetish.

There are apps that are geared toward specific fetishes—Grommr, for example, attracts gay men who enjoy the act of feeding people or being fed, though not exclusively—but in the absence of technology, "signaling" using certain objects takes its place.

The Hanky Code: Colorful Communication

One of the most iconic methods of signaling within the gay community was the hanky code, which emerged prominently in the early 1970s. Initially rooted in Western American cowboy culture, where men wore colored bandanas to signify roles in square dances, this practice took on new meaning as gay men sought discreet ways to express their sexual preferences.

The modern iteration of the hanky code is believed to have crystallized in San Francisco, spurred by a growing need for clarity in a time when open discussions about sexuality were fraught with risk. According to Hal Fischer's Gay Semiotics, the code was popularized by erotic stores like The Trading Post, which began promoting handkerchiefs and providing cards explaining their meanings. A red bandana signified a desire for a submissive role, while blue indicated a more dominant position. Over time, the code expanded to include an array of colors representing different kinks and sexual interests.

The origins of the hanky code highlight a clever adaptation of language that allowed individuals to navigate a precarious social landscape. In a world where being openly gay could lead to violence or ostracization, these subtle signals became a lifeline, facilitating connections while preserving anonymity.

Bob Damron’s Address Book: A Resource for Connection

Parallel to the development of the hanky code was the work of Bob Damron, whose queer guidebook first published in 1964 and provided a crucial resource for gay men across the United States.

Bob Damron’s Address Book became a widely circulated compendium of bars, bathhouses, and cruising areas, offering a map to the social hubs of the LGBTQ+ community.

Damron included the hanky code in his listings, thereby reinforcing its importance as a communication tool. His guides were not merely a directory; they were lifelines that helped individuals connect in a world where such spaces were often hidden and dangerous. Each copy of the book was sold directly by Damron himself, adding a personal touch to this essential resource.

Today, the hanky code continues to be employed, with an even broader spectrum of colors representing diverse desires and identities. The persistence of these signaling systems speaks to a historical legacy of creativity and resilience among LGBTQ+ individuals who sought connection in a time when their existence was often marginalized.

Understanding the historical context of these practices is essential. They are not merely relics of a bygone era but serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for sexual and personal freedom. As society continues to evolve, recognizing these threads of history enriches our understanding of both LGBTQ+ identity and the universal quest for love and connection.

In conclusion, the journey toward sexual liberation has always been intertwined with the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. The tools and practices developed by the community are not just means of navigating desire; they are symbols of resilience in the face of adversity. As we celebrate the advancements made, it is vital to honor and remember the innovative ways individuals have communicated their truths in a world that has often demanded silence.