Purple rhino questions

[woolymonkey]

I really don't want to get caught in the controversy about whether  the purple rhino virtual gift is a Good Idea.  (I try to steer clear of the really world-shattering issues.)  But I'm puzzled.

What is this "forgotten" symbol of the Gay Rights Movement? 
Why have I never heard about it until now?  Ignorance?  Britishness?  (Rhinos failed to swim the Atlantic?)
Who thought it would make an inspiring symbol for gay people?
Why?
Why a rhino?
Is this all a wind up?
Why?
Why purple?

Is there any connection to the Purple Cow Poem?

And, finally... why?

Please help if you can!

Comments

[lj_stowaway]

Like you, I am unfamiliar with the purple rhino symbol, but Google led me to this article, which implies a plausible connection. I didn't see mention of the illustration in the article but it makes sense in context (and the article was last edited on 8 May, so I doubt the gif is a plant made by anyone involved in the current uproar).

That's all I got. *g* I'll be watching to see if someone who *does* know the whys and wherefores of it comments.

[woolymonkey.livejournal.com]

Interesting! penknife found more (with the same image) and a Boston connection. Am now informed and puzzled, which is better than just puzzled.