Flags have been in the news recently, but this post is not about political protests. And even though prompted by the American celebration of Flag Day on June 14, today’s focus is on a new flag representing dwarfism and Little People of America (LPA).
LPA unveiled a Dwarfism Pride Flag on International Dwarfism Awareness Day (October 25, 2023). It’s “a conceptual and inclusive abstract representation of the dwarfism community, emphasizing both its diversity and unity, as well as the significant role of allies and supporters.” LPA gave four rationale for the flag’s creation:
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- Visibility and Recognition: A flag helps raise awareness and promotes visibility, making it easier for people to identify and recognize our cause.
- Unity and Pride: It can foster a sense of belonging and solidarity, reminding us that we are part of a larger movement working towards positive change.
- Advocacy and Representation: Our flag can be a powerful tool for advocacy and representation.
- Symbol of Hope: A flag can inspire hope and provide a sense of empowerment to individuals with disabilities. It represents resilience, strength, and the determination to overcome challenges.
LPA recruited two graphic designers who are LPA members and individuals with dwarfism—Jon Morato and Margo Drew. In a video interview Jon and Margo shared their vision for a simplistic and iconic flag design that (1) represents the dwarfism community; (2) incorporates and connects with LPA’s brand; and (3) is distinct from other pride flags. Both felt the weight and importance of the task to create something that represented diversity and the progress that LPA has made. And as they hoped, the flag design is something the dwarfism community can be very proud of and rally behind.
The Dwarfism Pride Flag is not only visually pleasing, but also symbolizes various aspects of LPA and the dwarfism community. Unlike horizontal stripes on traditional flags, the colors and stripes run vertically to draw attention to the common trait that makes people with dwarfism stand out from society—short stature. Although stature brings little people together, community members have 200 plus different types of dwarfism. This variation is represented with blocks differing in size, color and shades in a unified arrangement to show togetherness as a community.
The blue stripe on the far left side of the flag is the spine, the backbone, that recognizes the integral role allies, friends and family play in supporting LPA at the national and local levels. The 13 color blockings match the number of LPA districts. Green ties in with the color of LPA’s brand and dwarfism awareness activities.
When unveiling the flag, LPA leadership stated:
“Seeing our flag flying reminds us that we are not alone, and a supportive community is fighting for our rights. It is a rallying point for our members and allies, igniting a sense of pride and determination to create a more inclusive society.”
So let’s be proud of our visibility and fly the Dwarfism Pride Flag to represent our unity in diversity, advocate for inclusion, and symbolize hope.
This post was informed by the following sources:
- Video. Dwarfism Awareness Month: PRIDE Flag Design. Margo Drew and Jon Morato explain the inspiration and meaning of various flag features. https://vimeo.com/872603139/6a17895628?share=copy
- Margaret Drew. Senior Designer, Mayer/Reed, Inc. https://www.mayerreed.com/studio/#people
- Jon Morato Creative. https://www.jonmorato.com
- Little People of America Facebook page. October 25, 2023. https://www.facebook.com/LittlePeopleofAmerica/posts/pfbid02RNynh7FczAmdJUrkQjE4FMRd47iruS4Vu7iBzPx67b8x8ZzDsbecdxi6E8hTy6URl
- LPA_OnlineStore carries LPA Pride Flags and other products. https://www.zazzle.com/store/lpa_onlinestore
- You may also want to read about the Disability Pride Flag:
- “A new, visually safe version of the Disability Pride Flag.” July 28, 2021. https://capri0mni.dreamwidth.org/837596.html
- LOLA MÉNDEZ. “What’s the Meaning of the Colors on the Disability Pride Flag?” May 20, 2024. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/a43876914/disability-pride-flag/
- Langtree, I. C. (2024, May 1). The Disability Pride Flag. Disabled World. Retrieved May 30, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/disability/awareness/pride-flag.php