By: Kathan Kapoor

LGBTQIA+ History Month celebrates the historical achievements of those who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community.

In 1994, Rodney Wilson, a Missouri High School teacher, proposed the idea that a month should be dedicated to celebrate and educate about LGBTQIA+ history. The month of October was chosen as schools are in session and existing occasions such as National Coming Out Day (October 11th) occur in the same month. 

It is important to educate others about the month to ensure we are creating a safe and accepting place here at MDHS. The primary goal of LGBTQIA+ History Month is to teach young people about the history of the gay rights movement and to promote an inclusive modern society.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, listening to LGBTQIA+ voices, being a role model for kindness and inclusion, showing young people that they can be authentic around you, taking action at the local level to create safe spaces, and staying informed and getting involved are ways you can help educate yourself and others during this month. Taking the time to listen and learn from LGBTQIA+ youth is very helpful. It is important to speak up against hate speech and other forms of bullying. Look for ways that you can demonstrate to the people in your life that they can be themselves around you. Be sure to share resources with those who have experienced harassment or violence. 

In light of LGBTQIA+ Month, let’s keep working together to make MDHS a place where everyone feels safe and included being themselves!