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“We are all part of the same rainbow. We are all reflections of each other. As unique and diverse as we are in character and skills, the source of all creation is as multidimensional as we are.” — Suzy Kassem
Rainbows have played many roles in cultures around the world. Their bright, shining colors have embodied the ideas of hope and peace after turbulent times. The way each color exists on its own yet joins cohesively with the others has been used to represent the power of diversity and its arched shape has led many to think of them a bridges to to another place. Explore this guide to learn about how they have been used as symbols of hope throughout history.
Indra and the Rainbow
Aboriginal Rainbow Serpent
Heimdall Calling Forth Bifrost
The Rainbow Covenant with Noah
Rainbows in Nature
- Rainbow -- National GeographicNice article from National Geographic on rainbows as they occur in nature.
- 7 Types of Rainbows that Prove Nature is Awesome!This article from the Farmer's Almanac discusses and provides images of different types of naturally occurring rainbows.
- How rainbows form and what shape they really areIf you thought rainbows were shaped like an arch, think again. All you need is water, the sky and sunlight, and you’ve got something that’s colourful! This Video by Colourful Weather brings you the fun and fascinating science behind Rainbows!
Rainbow Pride Flag of the LGBTQ+ Community
- The History of the Pride FlagA nice, in depth explanation of the creation of the Pride Flag and its evolution over time.
- BBC--History of the Rainbow FlagAnother excellent description of the creation and evolution of the Pride Flag
- In Their Own Voices ExhibitOn this website, creators of LGBTQ Community Pride flags share the inspiration, process and meaning behind these iconic symbols. Co-presented by the Gilbert Baker Foundation and the GLBT Historical Society.
- Performance, Protest & Politics: The Art of Gilbert BakerExamine how rainbow-flag creator Gilbert Baker blurred the lines between artist and activist, protester and performer. Of special Interest is the section on the Rainbow flag as a Symbol of Hope, Freedom & Love
Rainbow Coalitions in Politics
There have been 2 notable political movements in the United States to call themselves Rainbow Coalitions.
The First Rainbow Coalition began in 1969, when the Chicago Black Panther Party, led by Fred Hampton, formed alliances across lines of race and ethnicity with other community-based movements in the city to collectively confront issues such as police brutality and substandard housing.
On July 17, 1984, the Reverend Jesse Jackson delivered his famous "Rainbow Coalition" speech in San Francisco at the Democratic National Convention, In this speech asking for his nomination as the Democratic candidate for President, Jackson emphasized the diversity of the United States and outlined his Rainbow Coalition campaign to draw on the country’s racial, religious and economic diversity.
Explore the links below to learn more about these significant moments in history.
- Jesse Jackson's 1984 DNC Rainbow Coalition speech [video]This video is of Jesse Jackson's 'Rainbow Coalition' speech in 1984 at the Democratic National Convention.
During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic families began to post or paint rainbows on their front windows as symbols of shard hope and as a way to connect with others during a period of profound isolation. These websites provide a glimpse into this worldwide phenomena.
Rainbows in Religion and Mythology
- Rainbows in MythologyWikipedia's page detailing the uses of Rainbows throughout the world's mythologies
- Factsheet: Rainbows in ReligionBrief page describing the roles rainbows have played in several non-Western religions.
- God's Rainbow PromiseExplanation and lesson plan about the Rainbow Covenant between the Judeo-Christian peoples and their God.
- Bifröst - Mythological Rainbow BridgeExtensive page devoted to the Norse mythology of Bifrost--the bridge that connects the world of men on Earth (Midgard) with the realm of the Nordic gods (Asgard)
- Rainbow Serpent in Aboriginal Art & CultureThe Rainbow Serpent is a creating God in Aboriginal Mythology. The connection between snake and rainbow suggests the cycle of the seasons and the significance of them and water in human life.. Find out more on this page.
- The Greek Goddes IrisIris is the goddess of rainbows and an important messenger between the gods and humans in Greek mythology. This page provides a wealth of information on her.
- Indra--King of DevasIn Indian mythology the Rainbow is named after the bow of Lord Indra. This page has lots of information on this very important Hindu God.
- Rainbows and Pots of GoldThis page explains the origins of the Irish folklore surrounding rainbows, leprechauns, and pots of gold.
Rainbows in Other Aspects of Culture
- Idealism and Identity: The Cultural Meanings of RainbowsAn interesting essay on the meaning on the meaning and usage of rainbows aimed at creatives.
- Rainbow Bridge PoemThis is the original poem that began the idea that pets pas on by crossing the rainbow bridge to Heaven.
- The Wide Span of the RainbowInteresting article from Slate on why the idea of the Rainbow Bridge is so compelling.
- Rainbows in Culture--WikWikipedia page that provides more information on Rainbow and their cultural significance.
Reading Rainbow
- Reading Rainbow Official YouTube ChannelReading Rainbow was a television show hosted by LeVar Burton on PBS to encourage a love of books and reading among children. This website provides additional information and full length episodes.
Rainbows in Cooking
- Layered Rainbow Jello RecipeUse this recipe to make your own colorful treats to service for Pride Month or anytime you need something colorful to brighten your day!
- Other Rainbow Colored TreatsMore recipes to create colorful, festive treats for friends and family.