Our Own True Colors: A Symbol for Black Polyamory

Happy 2015!!

What’s new with ‘Black & Poly’ for this brand new year?

There are a few things – and a we have reason to CELEBRATE! First, we have a new ‘Black & Poly’ Art Department. Next, we welcome David McLeod, the newly-named Art Director of said department. The Raleigh, NC native, former Army Officer lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife where they both are discovering polyamory as the love-style that suits them. For someone relatively new to polyamory, McLeod really knows how to represent. He has designed a new symbol for our community. We are very pleased to introduce to you the International Black Polyamory Flag. He recently shared his thoughts on the emblem.

Black & Poly: When and how did you get the idea to create the International Black Polyamory Flag?

David McLeod: Actually, I responded to a call for Graphic Designers put out by [‘Black & Poly’ Founder] Ron Young back in early November on the Facebook page. I responded with my website and he liked my work. The idea of a flag was actually his. He expressed what he wanted and what it was to represent.

B&P: What were the elements you thought about when creating the International Black Polyamory Flag?

DM: We wanted something visual that spoke specifically to the polyamorous community, and further representative of those within the African diaspora. 

B&P: You’ve combined Pan-African colors with a widely-used symbol of polyamory, the infinity heart. Have you incorporated more symbolism? Are there meanings to the colors in a polyamory context as well?

DM: I took what Ron wanted it to represent, and I went to work on that. It definitely borrows from the Pan-African inspired red, black, and green theme, but in this case, we’re a bit different. The red symbolizes “Abundant Love in All its Forms,” the black is for “People Standing in Solidarity – Families Uniting” and the green is for “Growth & Hope.”

As a Graphic Designer, my job is to visually communicate an idea. Most of “us” are familiar with the RBG color scheme, and what it basically means. The infinity heart is understood within poly communities as well, so it just makes sense, as opposed to doing something completely different which would require more branding and explanation behind its meaning and use, which is a task in itself.

Along with the colors, the infinity heart is also indicative of an Adinkra symbol of West Africa, which works as a subconscious reminder. All these elements work synonymously to communicate the basic idea behind the flag.

B&P: Alternative cultures have adopted using flags and symbols as a powerful means to show pride in who we are. What do you think are the unique qualities and life experiences we have to be proud of as people who are both black and poly?

DM: Now I’m not speaking for the entire ‘Black & Poly’ community, but I personally think that the black and poly, and more specifically the African-American experience within the poly community is a positive, and in many ways, a much needed one. It emphasizes communication, love, and community.

B&P: Do you see the flag primarily as a way for us to recognize and connect with one another or as a way to be visible so that others may learn about us?

DM: It’s both. It serves as an opportunity to be identified by, as well as a symbol that can open up dialog with individuals and other groups about what it means to be black and poly.

B&P: If this flag could help herald one new bit of awareness or understanding for our community, what would it be?

DM: That we are not a one-dimensional people. We are Black, and we are also Polyamorous.

B&P: What are the plans for the flag? Who will have permission to use it? Do you envision it remaining a flag to be flown or do you hope to see the symbol on buttons, T-shirts, and bumper stickers in poly communities everywhere?

DM: Yeah, I think that’s the ultimate goal. Its use will be specified by Ron, but I think that it will eventually be available for anyone who identifies themselves with this movement. I’d definitely like to see it everywhere: on flags, buttons, shirts, the whole nine! That would be awesome!

B&P: How can people who are interested in you, the flag, or any other aspect of your work get in touch?

DM: I be all over these “intronets.” If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur, you can check out my design work at DavidMcLeod.biz. For my fine art, you can find me at: Flavadave.biz. Instagram: @Flavadave72 and Twitter: @Flavadave72.

by Robin Renée

Robin Renée is a recording artist, writer, and longtime advocate in the LGBT and polyamory communities in the Philadelphia area. Her recordings include In Progress, All Six Senses, Live Devotion, spirit.rocks.sexy, and This. More information on her work can be found at RobinRenee.com.