LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

Every October, LGBTQ History Month provides a dedicated time to reflect, learn, and celebrate the often-overlooked history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. It serves as a vital opportunity to open conversations, challenge perspectives, and honor the individuals whose courage and resilience have shaped the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance.

#LGBTQHistoryMonth

For centuries, the history of LGBTQ+ people was systematically erased, hidden in subtext, or actively suppressed. This omission from mainstream historical narratives created a void, leaving many without a sense of their community's past or the role models who came before them. LGBTQ History Month is a powerful corrective to this erasure. It is important because it provides representation of people whose stories help empower LGBTQ+ youth by fostering a positive identity and a sense of belonging.

Learning about LGBTQ History Month is a great way to educate others and build allyship between all people. By shining a light on the struggles and triumphs of the past, the month provides context for the civil rights issues still facing the community today. By understanding key historical milestones, we can learn to appreciate the rights and freedoms  of others, while recognizing the work that still needs to be done.

HOW TO SUPPORT LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

LGBTQ History Month is a time to do your own research about the history of LGBTQ topics. Start by learning more about the LGBT community and their civil rights history. If you're willing, show our support for the LGBTQ community on social media using the hashtag #LGBTHistoryMonth.

HISTORY BEHIND LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH

In 1994, Rodney Wilson, a high school history teacher in Missouri, recognized that the contributions of gay and lesbian individuals were completely absent from his school's curriculum. Believing this history deserved to be taught and celebrated, he organized with other teachers and community leaders to create the first "Gay and Lesbian History Month." They chose October because schools are in session and it coincides with National Coming Out Day (October 11). The initiative was quickly endorsed by major advocacy groups, and in 2006, Equality Forum took the lead in promoting and providing resources for what is now the fully inclusive LGBT History Month.