Bears: the digital revolution
The dawn of digital
The 1990s brought rapid change with the emergence of the internet. Online forums and chat rooms became spaces for bears worldwide to connect. A bear in Manchester could now share experiences with a cub in Melbourne.
The internet helped thicker, hairier men discover, connect, and embrace their bear identity, forming an international community that would have been unimaginable just a few years earlier.
This new connectivity also sparked important dabate about identity. What exactly defined a bear? Was it solely based on physical appearance, or was something deeper involved? What were the qualities that made a bear a bear?
Global connections
As online connections grew, so did real-world gatherings. The first International Bear Rendezvous took place in San Francisco in 1995, marking an important moment in bear history.
That same year saw another important milestone: Craig Byrnes created the International Bear Brotherhood Flag, or Bear Pride flag. Its earthy tones and bear paw print captured the natural, masculine aesthetic of the community, serving as a symbol of visibility and pride.
The Bear Pride Flag, flying above the Bear Village at Sitiges Bear Week in September 2025.
What started as an American movement had become an international community. Bears, Cubs and Chasers gathered worldwide at iconic events, including:
Bear Week in Provincetown (Ptown), USA - the original bear event.
Reykjavík Bear (was called Bears on Ice) in Reykjavík, Iceland - where northern bears gathered under the midnight sun.
Bears Week in Sitges, Spain - transforming this Mediterranean paradise into a bear haven.
Southern HiBEARnation in Melbourne, Australia - bringing bears together down under.
These events became more than just parties—they evolved into celebrations of identity and belonging, reflecting a shared sense of community and often involving fundraising efforts.
The bear community also developed its own rich language. 'Woof' became a greeting and flirtation, while terms like 'cub' and 'otter' helped define the diverse family. Playful phrases like 'bearbecue' and 'bearhugs' reflected the warmth and humour that characterised bear culture.
Evolving identity
The 2000s brought new challenges and changes within the bear community. The rise of 'muscle bears' sparked important discussions about body image. These conversations opened up broader dialogues about inclusivity and representation in LGBTQ+ spaces.
As bear culture matured, inclusivity became a central theme. Trans bears and 'ursulas' (female bears) found welcoming environments, expanding the traditional definitions of bearhood. The community continued to confront familiar issues such as racism, ageism, and body shaming—concerns that reflected broader societal challenges.
In the 2010s, bear-specific social apps and groups transformed how bears connected. While these platforms allowed for more nuanced expressions of identity and desire, they also raised questions about the impact of digital culture on the health and wellbeing of people and the wider bear community.
Redefining bearhood
Today, bear culture is a vibrant, diverse part of the LGBTQ+ community. From its origins in challenging narrow beauty standards, it has evolved into a global movement that celebrates body positivity, emotional openness, and varied expressions of masculinity and gender.
The journey from local gatherings to a global community highlights the power of acceptance and authentic self-expression. In the bear community, everyone is welcome.
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