Keith Haring‘s National Coming Out Day poster is not just a colorful emblem of Pop Art but a symbol of pride, visibility, and activism. Created for the inaugural National Coming Out Day on October 11, 1988, this poster commemorates a significant event in LGBTQ+ history. The day, conceived by LGBTQ+ activists Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, was intended to empower individuals within the LGBTQ+ community to reveal their true selves to family, friends, and coworkers. The selected date, October 11, marks the anniversary of the monumental 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

Haring’s vibrant design for the poster is a testament to his personal philosophy and the broader narrative of the LGBTQ+ movement. It showcases one of his iconic human figures, faceless and undefined by gender. This radiant, yellow figure bursts from the proverbial “closet,” dancing with unabashed joy and demanding to be seen. The very act of “coming out” is deeply symbolic, reflecting the core belief of LGBTQ+ activism about the importance of visibility for both individuals and the broader community.

Haring’s design encapsulates this spirit perfectly. Living his life vibrantly and unapologetically, Haring’s art was often more than playful imagery; it was a commentary on pressing societal issues of the 1980s, from the HIV/AIDS crisis to racial and LGBTQ rights. This poster not only pays homage to the day but also emphasizes the critical role of visual activism. As a tool, visual activism highlights the political importance of being seen and recognized. Haring’s work for the National Coming Out Day is a testament to this, emphasizing the profound impact of individual and collective visibility in the fight for equal rights.