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LGBTQ+ History Month

A month-long heritage observance in October celebrating LGBTQ+ history, honoring community figures and milestones, and promoting education and visibility.

Thursday
1–31
October 2026
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEAll of October
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYCulture
SUBCATEGORYLGBTQ+
ORIGIN

Individual Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY
Rodney Wilson
FIRST OBSERVED
1994
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

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.

News Archivevia pbs.org
INTRO

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!

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