Every October, the United States celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month, a time to recognize the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of the queer community. What began in 1994 with the vision of a Missouri high school history teacher named Rodney Wilson has now become a vital part of the national conversation. Wilson, inspired by Women’s History Month and Black History Month, believed LGBTQ history deserved its own spotlight.
October was chosen because it falls during the school year, opening doors for education, while also honoring key milestones like the first LGBT Marches on Washington in 1979 and 1987 and National Coming Out Day on October 11. Support soon spread nationwide. Governors in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Oregon endorsed the month, and major organizations, including GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, and the National Education Association, signed on. By 1995, Newsweek was covering what was then known as Gay and Lesbian History Month. Today, LGBTQ+ History Month remains a celebration and a form of resistance.
Wilson, speaking to The Advocate, said: “In a season of unrelenting federal attacks on academic freedom, curricular independence, and LGBTQ people, it’s vital that we resist the current of events in every way available, including by means of history/heritage months such as LGBTQ+ History Month.” He noted that federal crackdowns on DEI programs have shuttered some campus queer centers, but also pointed to signs of resilience, highlighting strong programming at Syracuse University, Georgetown, and Southern Illinois University. Wilson also celebrated community-driven efforts like Equality Forum’s annual Icons Project, which now honors over 600 LGBTQ figures.
This year’s icons include Missouri’s own rising star, Chappell Roan. From its origins in one teacher’s vision to a national commemoration, LGBTQ+ History Month continues to shine a light on history even as today’s political battles underscore its urgency.
