October is LGBTQ+ History Month!

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 14:09:14 -0400
diversityandinclusion, lgbtq-genderandallies, mosaicwtt, umbccampuslife, umbcmosaic

LGBTQ+ History Month originated in the United States, and was first celebrated in 1994. This month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer history celebrates role models, and the history of the LGBTQ+ rights and related civil rights movements. In the United States, it is celebrated in October to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11. However, countries recognize this month at different times of the year according to their specific significant events (e.g. United Kingdom recognizes this in February)

It was founded by Missouri high-school history teacher Rodney Wilson. Many gay and lesbian organizations supported the concept early on as did Governors William Weld of Massachusetts and Lowell Weicker of Connecticut, who recognized the inaugural month with official proclamations. In 1995, the National Education Association indicated support of LGBTQ+ History Month as well as other history months by resolution at its General Assembly.

So why do we have Pride Month in June and LGBTQ+ History Month in October?

Wilson chose October as the month for the celebration due to National Coming Out Day. It was established as a widely known event, on October 11, the date of the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights that took place in 1987. June is recognized as Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall Riots taking place on June 28-July 1.

Upcoming LGBTQ+ Events this Month

Oct 3 - LGBTQ+ Networking Event

Oct 9 - National Coming Out Day Tabling (Sponsored by the Women’s Center)

Oct 9 - What’s The (T)ea? Equity for All? The Equality Act and Its Impacts

Oct 10 - National Coming Out Day Barbeque (Hosted by LSU)

Oct 16 - Bagels and Banter Pop-Up #1 (Topic pending but welcome to submit LGBTQ+-centered topics)

SafeZone Multiple Dates, RSVP Here

Check out all LGBTQ+ events here

For more information on Mosaic LGBTQ+ centered events, please email Carlos Turcios Coordinator for Student Diversity and Inclusion at carlos6@umbc.edu, Heidy George, Program Associate for Student Diversity and Inclusion at hmg@umbc.edu, or at mosaic@umbc.edu.

Cool links: LGBTQ History from GLSEN