As far back as the 1970s, flagging — aka, the hanky code — has been a way for gay people to covertly communicate their desires without getting caught. With homosexuality criminalized, queer folks developed a system: different colors of handkerchiefs meant different sex acts or fantasies, and which back pocket you wore them in told others if you wanted to take on a dominant or submissive role. 

Though the hanky code doesn’t get nearly as much use in the modern day, it’s still an important part of queer culture and history — which is why a satirical update changing the hanky code’s meanings for “low-key queers” is rubbing the internet the wrong way.

The updated code comes from cartoonist and zine-maker Sarah Shay Mirk, who posted their ideas on Instagram in a hand-drawn zine titled Hanky Code For Low-Key Queers. “This playful and loving satire is inspired by my friend […] and I always intending to go to cool sexy parties and instead just texting ‘never mind, I’m cozy in bed now,’” Mirk explained in the post’s caption.

In Mirk’s proposed hanky code, a pumpkin orange hanky would be an invitation to share soup. A pillowcase would mean lounging and kissing before an early bedtime. Green would signal if you want romantic or platonic compliments, picnic print would mean hanging out (and maybe making out) in a park, yellow with green stripes would mean you need someone to help with your paperwork, blue would let folks know you’re into hot tubbing, and purple (with Cheeto stains) would mean you’re looking to snack together and cuddle.

Mirk’s Hanky Code for Low-Key Queers. Via @mirkdrop on Instagram.

Compare those interpretations to some of those colors’ original hanky code meanings: Orange means “anything, anytime”; green means “hustler for rent”; yellow means “water sports”; and purple means “wants to pierce or be pierced” (all according to ONYX, a gay leather organization). Clearly, Mirk’s version is significantly sanitized — and queer folks across social media aren’t happy with the erasure.

Some folks pointed out why a “low-key” hanky code misses flagging’s original historical significance. The hanky code existed precisely because it gave clues on taboo topics. Asking to share soup or snacks, on the other hand, is about as inoffensive as you can get. Why not simply ask someone over for dinner instead of secretly signaling?

Others poked fun at someone in Mirk’s comments section who suggested that a brown hanky could stand for garden parties or making brownies. In reality, brown stands for … well, brown stuff.

While Mirk’s zine was satire and not meant to be taken seriously, the discourse it inspired is very, very real. Queer history — even (and especially) the explicit parts — deserves to be recognized and critiqued for what it was, not replaced for the sake of comfort.

Related
These hot takes on the Folsom Street Fair are stirring up discourse
Bowen Yang defends that controversial Chappell Roan SNL sketch

Sign up for the INTO newsletter and get your twice-weekly dose of stories that shape the queer experience, culture, and lifestyle.

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock our articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Once Monthly Annually

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated