October 1-31
LGBTQ+ History Month
A month-long heritage observance in October celebrating LGBTQ+ history, honoring community figures and milestones, and promoting education and visibility.
Rodney Wilson
Individual Initiative
Rodney Wilson, a high school history teacher in Missouri and the first openly gay K-12 teacher in the state, proposed LGBTQ+ History Month in January 1994, sending the idea to organizations who endorsed it. First events occurred in October 1994, with October chosen for National Coming Out Day and the academic calendar.
Introduction
October 1 marks the beginning of LGBTQ+ History Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (plus) people throughout history. This month-long celebration has been around since 1994 when it was created by Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson. Since then it has grown into an international event that is celebrated in countries all over the world. Let's take this time to honor our LGBTQ+ heroes who have paved the way for equal rights and acceptance!
LGBTQ+ History Month Timeline
How to Celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month
1
Attend a Pride event
Attending a Pride event is one of the best ways to show support for the LGBTQ+ community. Check out your local Pride events, or look for national events such as the National Equality March.
2
Support LGBTQ+ organizations
There are many organizations working to support LGBTQ+ rights, such as the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD. Support these organizations by donating money, volunteering your time, or simply sharing their message with your friends.
3
Educate yourself
Read books, watch documentaries, and talk to people in the LGBTQ+ community to learn more about their experiences and challenges. This can help you to understand the importance of celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month.
4
Share stories
Share stories of inspiring LGBTQ+ individuals from history or present day with your friends and family. This is a great way to spread awareness and celebrate the accomplishments of those who have helped shape our society.
5
Fly the rainbow flag
Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community by flying the rainbow flag at your home or workplace during the month of June. This is a powerful symbol that shows your commitment to equality and acceptance.
Why LGBTQ+ History Month is Important
It honors and celebrates our history
LGBTQ+ History Month helps to recognize and celebrate the achievements, accomplishments and contributions that LGBTQ+ individuals have made over the years. It is a way for us to honor our shared past, celebrate our victories and remember those who came before us.
It sheds light on issues still faced today
Despite progress, there are still challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the form of discrimination, violence, and lack of acceptance. By honoring our history, we can learn from the struggles faced in the past and use it to inform solutions to the issues we face now.
It brings visibility and representation
Too often, LGBTQ+ identities are erased or underrepresented in mainstream media. LGBTQ+ History Month creates space for our stories to be heard, celebrated and amplified. By celebrating our identities and validating our experiences, we can create spaces where everyone feels seen and accepted!
Holiday Dates
| Year | Dates | Days |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Sunday to Tuesday | |
| 2024 | Tuesday to Thursday | |
| 2025 | Wednesday to Friday | |
| 2026 | Thursday to Saturday | |
| 2027 | Friday to Sunday |
