Have you ever noticed someone wearing an open safety pin on their shirt or jacket, and wondered what it means? This tiny accessory has become a symbol of solidarity and support for marginalized communities around the world. It is meant to signal that the wearer is a safe person to approach, and is willing to lend a helping hand or ear to those who need it.
The trend of wearing an open safety pin as a symbol of inclusion and support began in the aftermath of the 2016 US presidential election. Many people who were upset by the results of the election wanted to show their solidarity with those who felt particularly vulnerable in the current political climate – such as immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, and women. The open safety pin quickly became a visual shorthand for this message of support and solidarity, and has since been adopted in countries around the world.
While some have criticized the open safety pin trend as “slacktivism” or insincere virtue signaling, many believe that it can still be a powerful way to show support and create connections. By wearing an open safety pin, we signal to others that we are willing to listen, learn, and act to support those who may be feeling marginalized or excluded. It may seem like a small gesture, but in a world where hate and prejudice still exist, it can make a big difference.
History of Safety Pins
The humble safety pin has been a household staple for centuries, and its history can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. However, it was not until the 19th century that the modern safety pin as we know it today was invented.
In 1849, Walter Hunt, an American inventor, patent attorney, and mechanic, came up with the idea for a new type of pin. He was looking for a way to secure his clothes more easily than using straight pins, which could be tricky to fasten. After several attempts, he finally hit upon the design for the modern safety pin, which was made from a single piece of wire bent into a spring.
From then on, safety pins became popular quickly, especially with women who used them to pin clothing in place and hold up petticoats and skirts. They also became an essential tool for nurses and medical professionals. In World War I and II, safety pins were used to hold bandages in place and to repair torn clothing.
Uses for Safety Pins
- Sewing: Safety pins can be used to mark seams or hold fabric together while sewing. They can also be used as a makeshift needle when sewing a patch on clothing.
- Crafts: Safety pins can be used in a variety of crafts such as beading, macrame, and jewelry making.
- First Aid: In addition to being used to hold bandages in place, safety pins can be used to remove splinters or slivers from the skin.
- Hair Accessories: Safety pins can be used as a temporary hair accessory or to hold a wig or hair extensions in place.
- Emergency Repairs: Safety pins are great for emergency repairs such as torn clothing, broken zippers, or a fallen hem.
Safety Pin Symbolism
Safety pins have become a symbol of solidarity and inclusivity. In recent years, people have worn safety pins as a sign of support for marginalized communities and as a statement against hate and discrimination. The safety pin is meant to be a visual representation of the wearer’s commitment to being an ally and standing up for others.
| Symbolism | Description |
|---|---|
| Resistance | The safety pin has been used to signify resistance against oppressive and discriminatory systems. |
| Unity | The safety pin can symbolize unity and inclusivity, showing support for all people regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. |
| Compassion | The safety pin can represent compassion and empathy for others who may be facing discrimination or injustice. |
No matter how it is used, the safety pin remains a useful and versatile tool that continues to play a significant role in our daily lives.
Cultural significance of safety pins
Safety pins have been around for centuries with its primary function being to secure clothing together. However, throughout history, it has also been used as a symbol of unity, solidarity, and support for various causes. Here are some examples of the cultural significance of safety pins:
- Punk rock: In the late 1970s, safety pins became an iconic accessory in the punk rock scene. It was used as a form of self-expression and rebellion against the status quo. Punk rockers would wear safety pins on their clothing, earrings, and even as belts.
- LGBTQ+ solidarity: In recent years, safety pins have been used as a symbol of support and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community. It started in 2016 after the election of Donald Trump, where many people expressed their fear and concern for the safety of marginalized groups. By wearing safety pins, people showed that they were allies and would stand up against discrimination and hate.
- Breast cancer awareness: Safety pins have been used as a symbol for breast cancer awareness and support for over 25 years. In the early 1990s, Evelyn Lauder, the Senior Corporate Vice President of Estée Lauder Companies and breast cancer survivor, started the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and launched the Pink Ribbon campaign. The campaign encouraged people to wear pink ribbons and safety pins to show their support for breast cancer survivors, patients, and research funding.
Safety pins have also been used in protest movements and as a symbol of resistance against oppressive systems. In recent years, safety pins were used as a symbol of resistance during anti-Trump protests and as a sign of solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. Safety pins are a versatile symbol that can be used in various forms of activism and social justice causes.
Below is a table highlighting some of the ways safety pins have been used as a symbol of solidarity and support:
| Symbolism | Cause |
|---|---|
| Safety pin on clothing | LGBTQ+ solidarity |
| Pink safety pin | Breast cancer awareness |
| Safety pin as jewelry | Punk rock fashion |
| Multiple safety pins in a shape of a heart | Immigration and refugee support |
Overall, safety pins have become a symbol of unity and support for various communities and movements. It is a small gesture that can have a powerful impact in showing solidarity and allyship.
Different types of safety pins
Safety pins may seem like a simple tool, but they come in various shapes and sizes. Each type has its unique characteristic, and understanding their differences is crucial in using them properly. Here are some of the most common types of safety pins:
- Baby safety pins – These are the smallest safety pins, typically used for fastening cloth diapers on babies. They are made of rust-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or brass, to avoid skin irritation on delicate skin.
- Kilt safety pins – These are large safety pins with a decorative cap, used to fasten kilts and Scottish skirts. They are also known as “plaid brooches” and come in various designs, such as Celtic knotworks.
- Tie tacks – These are safety pins with shorter pins and a decorative head. They are used to fasten ties securely to a shirt, preventing the tie from flipping over. They come in different designs, such as gold, silver, or pearl heads.
Aside from the common types of safety pins mentioned earlier, there are also specialty safety pins, such as lockable safety pins and bulb safety pins. Lockable safety pins have a sliding lock mechanism that secures the pin in place, while bulb safety pins have a blunt end instead of a sharp point, making them safe for children.
It’s important to choose the right type of safety pin for your specific needs. Using the wrong type may lead to accidents or damages, such as bent pins or torn clothes. Additionally, it’s also essential to store safety pins properly, preferably in a dry and cool place, away from moisture and direct sunlight, to prevent rusting and degradation of the material.
Knowing the different types of safety pins and how to use them correctly can save you from a lot of trouble. Whether it be for fastening your baby’s diaper, securing your tie, or dressing up in a Scottish kilt, each type has its particular purpose.
| Type | Size | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Baby safety pins | 1 inch | Fastening cloth diapers |
| Kilt safety pins | 4-5 inches | Fastening kilts and Scots skirts |
| Tie tacks | 0.75-1.5 inches | Securing ties to a shirt |
Here’s a table summarizing the different types, sizes, and common uses of safety pins:
Uses of Safety Pins in Fashion
Safety pins have long been a staple in the fashion industry. From holding clothing together to creating unique designs, the possibilities are endless. Some of the most common uses of safety pins in fashion include:
- Fixing Clothing: Safety pins are often used to quickly fix clothing that has torn or come undone. Whether it’s a hem that needs to be secured or a broken strap that needs to be fastened, safety pins can be a quick and effective solution.
- Creating Unique Designs: Safety pins can be used to create unique designs on clothing. For example, attaching safety pins in a zig-zag pattern can create a punk-inspired look, or using them to attach pieces of fabric or other embellishments can add texture and interest to a garment.
- As Accessories: Safety pins can also be used as accessories in and of themselves. Using a brightly colored safety pin as a brooch or attaching several safety pins to a bag or jacket can create a statement-making look.
However, safety pins have also taken on a symbolic meaning in recent years. The open safety pin has become a symbol of solidarity with marginalized communities, particularly refugees and immigrants. Wearing an open safety pin can signify that the wearer is a safe person to approach and that they support marginalized communities.
While the use of safety pins in fashion may seem trivial, the recent symbolic use of the open safety pin has shown that they can carry significant meaning. From practical solutions to creative designs to powerful statements, safety pins are a versatile and valuable tool in the world of fashion.
| Uses of Safety Pins in Fashion | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fixing Clothing | Securing a hem, fastening a broken strap |
| Creating Unique Designs | Attaching safety pins in a zig-zag pattern, adding fabric or other embellishments |
| As Accessories | Using a brightly colored safety pin as a brooch, attaching several safety pins to a bag or jacket |
Safety pins as a symbol of punk rock subculture
One of the most iconic symbols of the punk rock movement is the safety pin. In the late 1970s, punks began to use safety pins as fashion accessories, attaching them to their clothing as a form of rebellion against mainstream fashion. But the use of the safety pin as a punk symbol runs deeper than just fashion.
Here are some of the ways that safety pins have been used as a symbol within the punk rock subculture:
- As a statement of solidarity: In the 1970s and 80s, the punk rock movement was associated with social and political activism. Safety pins came to be used as a symbol of solidarity with oppressed and marginalized groups, such as queer and working-class communities.
- As a sign of resistance: Punks saw themselves as rebels who were pushing back against the status quo. Safety pins were a way to show this resistance, to make a statement without words.
- As a marker of nonconformity: Punks rejected mainstream culture and norms, and safety pins were a way to distinguish themselves from conformist fashion. By wearing safety pins, punks were making a statement about their nonconformity and individuality.
But safety pins weren’t just used symbolically within the punk rock subculture. They were also used practically, as a way to fasten torn clothing or to hold clothing together in a makeshift way. In this way, the safety pin became a symbol of resourcefulness and frugality, as punks made do with what they had instead of buying new clothes.
Overall, the safety pin is a powerful symbol within the punk rock subculture. It represents rebellion, solidarity, resistance, and resourcefulness, all values that are deeply ingrained in punk culture to this day.
If you’re ever wondering what that safety pin on the lapel of a punk rocker means, now you know!
The Role of Safety Pins in DIY Culture
The safety pin has been a versatile tool in the world of DIY culture. It has been used in various ways throughout fashion, crafting, and activism. This simple yet effective fastener has paved its way into DIY culture, becoming a symbol of solidarity and resistance.
The Safety Pin as a Symbol of Support for Marginalized Communities
- The safety pin was first used as a symbol of support for marginalized communities, especially after the Brexit vote in the UK. It was a way for people to show their solidarity with immigrants, refugees, and other groups who felt threatened by the political climate.
- Safety pins were worn by people as a way to identify themselves as allies to those who may feel marginalized or threatened.
- However, the use of the safety pin as a symbol of support has also been met with criticism, with some arguing that wearing a safety pin does not necessarily equate to meaningful action or change.
The Safety Pin in Fashion and Crafting
The safety pin has also been used in the realms of fashion and crafting. In punk fashion, safety pins were used as a way to create an edgy and rebellious look. They were often worn as jewelry, attached to clothing, or used as embellishments on bags and accessories.
Safety pins have also been used in crafting, particularly in the creation of beaded jewelry and other DIY accessories. They are a handy tool to have on hand for jewelry-making, allowing for easy and secure fastening of beads and other materials.
Table of Safety Pin Sizes
| Size | Length (inches) |
|---|---|
| #0 | 5/8 |
| #1 | 3/4 |
| #2 | 7/8 |
| #3 | 1 |
| #4 | 1 1/16 |
| #5 | 1 1/8 |
When it comes to using safety pins in DIY projects or fashion, knowing the sizes and measurements can be crucial. The table above provides a quick reference for the different sizes and lengths of safety pins.
The safety pin as a symbol of activism and political solidarity
The safety pin has recently gained significance as a symbol of activism and political solidarity, particularly in response to the 2016 presidential election in the United States and the ensuing political climate. Many individuals donned safety pins as a way to show support for marginalized groups and to express solidarity with communities feeling threatened by the election results and subsequent policies.
- The safety pin has become a way for people to visually communicate their values and beliefs without relying on words.
- It is a simple and subtle way to show support for those who may feel vulnerable or marginalized.
- The safety pin symbolizes a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community for all.
The safety pin has a historical association with anti-Nazi resistance movements in World War II. The Norwegian symbol of the paper clip (a close cousin of the safety pin) was used as a symbol of solidarity with Jews and other persecuted groups during the war. The safety pin continues this legacy of resistance and solidarity in the face of oppressive forces.
The safety pin has also been adopted as a way to acknowledge one’s own privilege and challenge systemic oppression. By wearing a safety pin, individuals are taking a small step towards becoming more aware of their own privilege and actively working towards equity and justice for all.
| Safety Pin Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Open safety pin | Symbolizes a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive community for all. |
| Closed safety pin | Symbolizes a need for safety and protection. |
| Upside-down safety pin | Symbolizes a call for help and support. |
In conclusion, the safety pin has emerged as a powerful symbol of activism and political solidarity. Whether worn on clothing, displayed on a lapel, or shared on social media, the safety pin represents a commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive community for all.
Safety pins in art and literature
Safety pins have not only been used for functional purposes but also as a symbol in art and literature. Here are some examples:
- Punks and rebels: In the 1970s, the punk movement adopted safety pins as part of their fashion, using them to hold their clothes together in a haphazard way. This was seen as a symbol of their rebellious spirit and anti-establishment views.
- Social justice: Following the 2016 US presidential election, the safety pin became a symbol of solidarity for marginalized groups. Wearing a safety pin showed support for those who were feeling vulnerable after the election and was a way to signal that the wearer was a “safe” ally.
- Art installations: Various artists have used safety pins in their artwork, such as the installation “Safety Pins” by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The artwork consisted of an oversized safety pin stuck in the ground, which served as a commentary on the commercialization of everyday objects.
One interesting aspect of safety pins in art and literature is their use of symbolism. For example, in literature, the safety pin has been used to represent different themes and ideas. Here are some examples:
The Memoir of Jane Austen, published in 1869, describes a brooch made of safety pins, which symbolizes the humble beginnings of the Austen family.
In Virginia Woolf’s novel The Waves, a safety pin is used as a symbol of connection and continuity between the characters.
The number 8 is also significant in literature when it comes to safety pins. In the novel The Safety Pin by Eugenia Collier, the main character, Phyllis, collects safety pins and always keeps eight on her person. The number eight symbolizes order and stability for Phyllis and makes her feel safe.
In conclusion, the safety pin has not only served as a functional tool but has also become a symbol in art and literature. Its use in various mediums has allowed for a deeper exploration of its meanings and significance.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Punks and rebels | Rebelliousness and anti-establishment views |
| Social justice | Solidarity with marginalized groups |
| Art installations | Commentary on commercialization of everyday objects |
Disclaimer: This article is meant for educational purposes only. It is not in any way offering advice or endorsement.
Safety pins in popular culture and media
Safety pins have become a symbol of resistance, solidarity, and support for marginalized communities around the world. Representing a tangible way to show support for a cause, the safety pin has been utilized in a variety of ways across popular culture and media.
- The #SafetyPin movement gained momentum after Brexit in 2016, as a way for people to show solidarity with immigrants and minorities in the UK.
- At the 2017 Academy Awards, celebrities wore blue ribbons and safety pins to show support for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
- In the aftermath of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, people began wearing safety pins to show solidarity with the victims and their families.
Beyond these high-profile examples, the safety pin has made appearances in music, fashion, and art. Punk and grunge fashion popularized the safety pin as a decorative element, while artists like Tracey Emin have incorporated safety pins into their work as a symbol of vulnerability and healing.
The following table highlights some notable examples of safety pins in popular culture and media:
| Example | Description |
|---|---|
| Punk fashion | Safety pins used as decorative elements on clothing and accessories |
| #SafetyPin movement | People wearing safety pins as a symbol of solidarity with marginalized communities |
| ACLU ribbons | Celebrities wearing blue ribbons and safety pins at the Academy Awards to support the American Civil Liberties Union |
| Manchester solidarity | People wearing safety pins to show support for victims and their families after the Manchester Arena bombing |
| Tracey Emin | Artist who incorporates safety pins into her work as a symbol of vulnerability and healing |
Safety pins in contemporary fashion trends
Safety pins have been utilized in fashion for centuries. From Medieval times, where they were used for practical purposes such as fastening together clothing to the punk movement in the late 1970s, where they became an emblem of rebellion, safety pins have a long and varied history in fashion. In recent years, the safety pin has also made a comeback in contemporary fashion trends, being used for both practical and aesthetic purposes.
- Clothing: Safety pins have been utilized in contemporary fashion to create unique and edgy looks. They can be used to create eye-catching patterns on clothing such as jackets, pants, and skirts. Additionally, safety pins can be used to create cut-out designs, revealing skin in unexpected and provocative ways.
- Accessories: Safety pins have also been incorporated into accessories such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. By adding safety pins to jewelry pieces, designers are able to create edgy and unconventional designs.
- Tattoos: In recent years, the safety pin tattoo has become popular, particularly among those who identify as feminists and allies. The tattoo represents solidarity with marginalized communities and serves as a symbol of support and protection.
Another trend in contemporary fashion is using safety pins as a statement piece. It has become common to see safety pins attached to clothing, backpacks, and bags as a way to express one’s views and beliefs. Political statements, social causes, and personal inspirations are often represented through the use of safety pins.
In addition to being a statement piece, safety pins have been used in fashion as a practical tool. Fashion designers and stylists have utilized safety pins to alter and adjust clothing in creative ways, for instance, cinching in a dress or creating a new silhouette. Safety pins have also been used on the runway to add texture and dimension to garments.
| Designer | Collection | Use of Safety Pins |
|---|---|---|
| Vivienne Westwood | Fall/Winter 2019 | Safety pins were used to pin and cinch fabric, creating a draped and layered effect on skirts and dresses. |
| Moschino | Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear | Safety pins were used liberally throughout the collection, used to fasten clothing together in a haphazard and punk-inspired way. |
| Yohji Yamamoto | Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear | Safety pins were used to add texture and cinch fabric on oversized, asymmetrical pieces. |
Overall, the safety pin has become a versatile and dynamic tool within the realm of contemporary fashion trends. From statement pieces to practical tools and accessories, the safety pin continues to be an enduring symbol of rebellion, innovation, and support.
What does an open safety pin symbolize?
1. Is an open safety pin a symbol of solidarity?
Yes, an open safety pin is often associated with solidarity and support for marginalized communities.
2. What does the open safety pin symbolize for the LGBTQ+ community?
For the LGBTQ+ community, the open safety pin is a symbol of allyship and support, particularly for those who face discrimination and violence.
3. What does the open safety pin symbolize in politics?
During political protests, an open safety pin can be used as a symbol for resistance and activism.
4. What does the open safety pin symbolize in fashion?
An open safety pin can symbolize a punk or alternative fashion style.
5. What does the open safety pin symbolize in art?
In art, the open safety pin can be used as a symbol for vulnerability and fragility.
6. How did the open safety pin become a symbol of support?
The open safety pin became a symbol of support after the UK’s Brexit vote, when people started wearing them to show support for immigrants and minorities.
7. What are other symbols of solidarity and support?
Other symbols of solidarity and support include ribbons, bracelets, and lapel pins, often in specific colors to represent different causes.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about what an open safety pin symbolizes. It is important to understand the different meanings that symbols can carry in various contexts. Keep fighting for what you believe in and supporting those who need it. Come back and visit for more insights on symbolism and culture.