“One thing that I don’t understand, though, is the need of many people in the LGBT community to advertise their sexuality … I’m speaking of bumper stickers, bracelets, tee shirts, etc.”

I can’t speak for others, but a large part of it is ensuring visibility. How’s that old motto go? Silence = Death? Nothing that dramatic, to be sure, but with all the drama going on with gay marriage and other equality issues, we NEED to be in-your-face until attitudes change.