In a landmark ruling on 6th September 2018, the Supreme Court of India decriminalized homosexuality. And so, on 14th Feb, 2019 we found ourselves on the cusp of an important cultural moment in the country’s history — India’s first Valentine’s Day for all. However, there was still a need for a symbol to represent and express this inclusive love.
Aligned with Uber’s global commitment to diversity and inclusivity, we encouraged the nation to rally behind a new symbol—the Pride Heart emoji. The initiative was launched through a front-page ad in the Hindustan Times, rainbow routes in the Uber app, a petition on
change.org, and amplified on our social channels.
Backed by widespread support, we submitted a formal proposal to the Unicode Consortium, advocating for the Pride Heart emoji to be included in phone keyboards as a universal emblem of love and inclusivity.