Originally, the GDC logo consisted of the Druze symbol in front of the Pride rainbow colors. This combination was not met favorably, with many asking to not mix the Druze culture with the LGBTQ2IA+ community. This hate is how the GDC gained attention. That hate, however, was not worth our attention. We could be gay, we were told – just not Druze. There is no queerness in Druze culture, many emphasized. How dare we deface the Druze star with our queerness?
This made it clear to carry on with the GDC, because a community rises out of necessity. We did not choose to grow up in homophobic environments, and we do not wish these struggles on others. We ask for acceptance, just like we accept you. We ask for safety, just like your privilege includes. We ask to enjoy our culture, because it is ours just as much as it is yours. Created in 2023, the new GDC logo is a reflection of these needs.
The Four Pillars of the GDC
These four pillars helped to create our new logo, which are proudly captured through visual design.
- Safety – The box that surrounds the “GDC” letters represents a shelter. It purposefully extends from the Druze colors and surrounds the name of the community to reflect a space where our community members can feel safe to express their identity. Many of our members have never found safety throughout their lives, so we hope this space can be conducive of growth and healing.
- Acceptance – The letters “GDC” stand for Gay Druze Community, to represent a Druze community that stands for the acceptance of queer individuals within the Druze culture. It’s to simply say that we exist. This pillar further reflects the acceptance of those that have chosen to leave the Druze faith but are members of this community.
- Resistance – Historically, the color Lavendar is the color of queer resistance and empowerment. This is to emphasize that we are a radical community that further stands for queer liberation and the collective. We will be a voice for those unable to have a voice.
- Culture – Colors of the Druze culture are still represented in the new logo, indicating we are of Druze background. We try to emphasize the importance of staying in touch with our culture, despite the Druze diaspora.