How It Works
LGBT History Month celebrates the achievements of 31 lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender Icons. Each day in October, a new LGBT Icon is featured with a video, bio, bibliography, downloadable images and other resources.
LGBT History Is American History
“LGBT History Month sends an important message to our nation’s teachers, school boards, community leaders, and youth about the vital importance of recognizing and exploring the role of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people in American history."
– George Chauncey,
DeWitt Clinton Professor of American History and Director of the Columbia Reseach Initiative on the Global History of Sexualities.
Background
In 1994, Rodney Wilson, a Missouri high school teacher, believed a month should be dedicated to the celebration and teaching of gay and lesbian history, and gathered other teachers and community leaders. They selected October because public schools are in session and existing traditions, such as Coming Out Day (October 11), occur that month.
Gay and Lesbian History Month was endorsed by GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the National Education Association and other national organizations. In 2006 Equality Forum assumed responsibility for providing content, promotion and resources for LGBT History Month.
Celebrate Our Heritage
The LGBT community is the only community worldwide that is not taught its history at home, in public schools or in religious institutions. LGBT History Month provides role models, builds community and makes the civil rights statement about our extraordinary national and international contributions.
About Equality Forum
Equality Forum coordinates LGBT History Month, oversees the application for and installation of government-approved LGBT historic markers, produces documentary films and undertakes other high-impact initiatives. Equality Forum runs these innovative programs in collaboration with learning institutions, professional associations, research centers, for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.equalityforum.com.
