LGBTQ+ History

October is dedicated to all LGBTQ+ history and heritage, which serves to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality.

Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14th. The month now also includes Spirit Day – observed this year on Oct. 19th, during which people around the world wear or display the color purple in support of LGBT youth. October is also home to GLSEN’s Ally Week.

In March, Transgender Day of Visibility celebrates the contributions of transgender and gender non-conformation people while increasing awareness of justice-oriented work.

Source: GLAAD.org

October 11 | National Coming Out Day

October 17 | Spirit Day (LGBTQ+ Youth support and speak out against bullying)

October 26 | Intersex Awareness Day

October 20-26 | Asexual Awareness Week

Nov. 30 | Transgender Day of Rememberance

March 31 | Transgender Day of Visibility

While many LGBTQ-inclusive school supports begin in middle or high school, it is critical for elementary schools to establish a foundation of respect and understanding for all people. In addition to gaining knowledge and developing skills, elementary students typically begin to develop an understanding of themselves and the world and people around them. As such, the social environment of classrooms and schools provides the opportunity for children to initiate and develop relationships and navigate increasingly complex peer relationships. That complexity can often lead to incidents of name-calling and use of hurtful and biased words. If left uninterrupted by educators and other adult role models, these behaviors can take root in children’s hearts and minds.

Source: GLSEN

Thank you to Maggie Degman (she/her), Fairhaven Middle School, who shared lesson slides and resources for Transgender Awareness Week.

Trans Awareness Week.pptx

Transgender Awareness Week Resources.docx

In this lesson, students will gain knowledge and understanding of LGBTQ+ activism in American and reflect on their own identities while developing tangible opportunities to make school a safe environment for all students.