October is National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) History Month

Each year in October many Americans celebrate National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) History Month. The entire month is a celebration of the history of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. It is also used as an opportunity to teach others about the history and contributions of LGBT individuals. 2007 marks the thirteenth anniversary of the event. Of course the celebration has received and still receives criticism. However, the criticism does not affect those who embrace LGBT History Month.

LGBT History Month began in 2004 after Rodney Wilson, a high-school history teacher from Missouri, became angered by the fact that textbooks failed to mention LGBT history and issues. He soon organized a group of teachers and community leaders who were all focused on bringing LGBT history into mainstream education. The organization found great success and support among the gay and lesbian communities. The organization decided to establish a month of celebration focusing on the history and contribution of LGBT people. Wilson chose the month of October for the event because it is also the month of National Coming Out Day, on October 11. The first two gay and lesbian marches on Washington took place on National Coming Out Day in 1979 and 1987. Wilson not only wanted to commemorate these first two marches but to encourage honesty and openness about one's sexuality. The celebration was organically known as Lesbian and Gay History Month, however, it was changed to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) History Month.

Since the first celebration of LGBT History Month in 1994, the celebration has had great success. The National Education Association (NEA) indicated support of LGBT History Month in 1995. It is also supported by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). It has been endorsed by The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and The Human Rights Campaign Fund. The United Kingdom also established a LGBT History Month in 2005, which takes place in February. Many other countries are talking about establishing a similar celebration.

LGBT History Month has now become a month of pride and remembrance among LGBT people. It is about visibility and acknowledgment of the many contributions of the LGBT communities. It is a time for LGBT individuals to celebrate their struggles and achievements together. It is also a time for others to educate themselves about the history and contributions of the LGBT communities. Throughout the month of October, a growing number of educators find ways to incorporate LGBT history their teachings. They also discuss the issues and themes of LGBT individuals in the hopes that the discussions and explorations will continue throughout the year, not just during October.

Sources

Wikipedia

GLSEN