Since its debut nearly 40 years ago, the flag has been carried in Pride marches around the world and swathed over just about every object imaginable in order to show support for LGBTQ rights, giving it a near-universal significance.
The flag in question was designed in 1978 by the San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker, the gay rights activist who is responsible for creating what is arguably the LGBTQ rights movement's most recognizable and unifying symbol. The flag is one of a slew of other significant objects added to the museum's trove, including a space coffee cup, a Frisbee, an Oculus Rift virtual reality headset, and a copy of David Bowie's Blackstar album, according to a report by The Guardian. The rainbow flag, now a ubiquitous symbol for LGBTQ pride, has earned new status: This week, London's Design Museum acquired it as part of its permanent collection.
