What is a Handkerchief Code?
The Handkerchief Code, sometimes called the Hanky Code, is a signaling system commonly used in the gay community to indicate one’s sexual interests and preferences. It is thought to have originated in the 1970s in the United States, particularly in the gay-bathhouse culture in San Francisco.
How Does It Work?
The code involves wearing a colored handkerchief in the back pocket of one’s pants or jeans, with the colors and the pocket side conveying different meanings. For example, wearing a handkerchief in the left pocket means one is a top; while wearing it on the right pocket means one is a bottom. The color of the handkerchief indicates the individual’s particular interests, such as brown for scat play, or light blue for oral sex.
Why Is It Used?
The Handkerchief Code was initially used as a way for men to communicate their sexual interests without the risk of directly discussing it, which was illegal or socially unacceptable in many jurisdictions. It has since become a way for the LGBTQ community to celebrate their diversity and show solidarity with each other.
Is It Still Used Today?
Although it is not as widespread as it once was, the Handkerchief Code is still used in pockets of the gay community in different parts of the world. The practice has also influenced the creation of alternative signaling systems, such as colored bracelets or bandanas, in other subcultures or communities.
What Are Some Controversies Surrounding It?
There are some controversies surrounding the use of the Handkerchief Code, mainly around the accuracy of its meanings, as well as the potential for misunderstandings and misinterpretations. Some critics also argue that the code reinforces the stereotype of gay men as overly sexualized and promiscuous.
