October is LGBT History Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
The month-long observation, separate from Pride Month in June, began in 1994 when Rodney Wilson - a high school history teacher in Missouri - worked to establish a month dedicated to the recognition of gay and lesbian history. October was chosen because it's a time when all public schools are in session and, also, because it coincides with Coming Out Day on Oct. 11.
Coordinated by the Equality Forum, 31 LGBTQ+ icons are profiled - one every day - during the month of October. You can learn about the 2024 honorees here.
The City School District of Albany is dedicated to providing a safe space for all students and staff. Support can be found by reaching out to any trusted adult, including but not limited to, school counselors, school social workers, behavior specialists or a home school coordinator.
Additional resources:
- Albany High School's Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) - which was formed in 2019 - meets every Monday in room 1308
- Biographical and historical titles about LGBTQ+ figures throughout history available in the Albany High School library
- Information provided by New York's Office of Children and Family Services to better serve LGBTQ+ youth
