The Symbol

Like many other lifestyles, a symbol was created to identify the BDSM community. As it's symbolism is not apparent, it's uniqueness is a tribute to the diverse nature of D/s and BDSM itself.

For most outside the "scene", it is merely an abstract work of art, yet for those embracing the lifestyle, it's meaning and symbolism run deep. It's circle, divided into three distinct sections, represents the "threesomes" associated with the lifestyle.

First, our three watchwords - Safe, Sane and Consensual. The base of every relationship within the scope of BDSM encompasses these three ideals. While the outside world views D/s to be the act of the Dom exerting force on the submissive to attend to his desires, those of us know that participation in our lifestlye is always on a consensual basis, with safe, sane "play" intergrated.

One could further say this symbol to represent the three distinct lifestyles so often spoken of: Dommination and submission (D/s), Bondage and Discipline (BD) and Sadomasochism (SM). The circle around the three, bringing together the concepts which often mix to facilitate the uniqueness of the lifestyle.

As well, the symbol recognizes the three "groups" which exist in the scene - the Dominant, the submissive and the switch.

The circle itself, brings together all aspect of this lifestyle, and represents the unity of the community and the desire to protect all who fall within it's never ending boundaries. BDSM has no start and no finish - it flows continually between each section while maintaining the identity of each individual aspect.

For those of us in the community, it is a great honor to adhorn ourselves with this symbol, thus identifying us to our brothers and sisters. Wear it with dignity and pride, befitting it's true meaning.