About GLBT History Month
In the 1990's, teachers and community organizations determined that a month should be designated for GLBT history. They chose October because public schools are in session and traditions, such as National Coming Out Day, occur then.
GLBT History Month is endorsed by GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the National Education Association, and other national organizations. In 2006, Equality Forum assumed responsibility for GLBT History Month.
Celebrate Our Heritage
The GLBT community is the only community worldwide that does not learn its history at home, in the public schools or in religious institutions. GLBT History Month teaches our heritage, provides role models, builds community and makes the civil rights statement of our extraordinary national and international contributions.
The Selection Process
GLBT History “GLBT History Month sends an important message to our nation’s teachers, school boards, community leaders, and youth about the vital importance of recognizing and exploring the role of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people in American history." George Chauncey
Is American History
History Department
Yale University
The 31 Icons, living or dead, are selected for their achievements in their field of endeavor, their status as a national hero, or their significant contribution to GLBT civil rights. Equality Forum solicits nominations from state, national and international organizations and leaders.
The GLBT History Month Co-Chairs, Professor Sharon Ullman, History Department, Bryn Mawr College, and Professor Kenji Yoshino, New York University School of Law, review all nominations and recommend 31 Icons.
Visit the archives for 2006 and 2007 GLBT History Month Icons and resources.
Nominations for GLBT History Month 2009 Icons
Equality Forum solicits nominations for GLBT History Month 2009 Icons. Nominations should be submittted via email to nominations@equalityforum.com by Friday, December 19, 2008.
About Equality Forum
Equality Forum is a national and international GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus. Equality Forum coordinates GLBT History Month, produces documentary films, undertakes high-impact initiatives and presents the largest annual international GLBT civil rights forum. For more information, visit www.equalityforum.com.
