LGBTQ+ History Month is an annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements.  Founded in 1994 by Missouri high-school history teacher Rodney Wilson, the observance also helps to raise awareness about the issues faced by LGBTQ+ people.

The U.S. celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month during the month of October is intentional to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11.  It also commemorates the first and second marches on Washington in 1979 and 1987 for LGBTQ+ rights, focused on discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community.  Both marches occurred in October and are an important part of LGBTQ+ history.

The observance of LGBTQ+ month provides the occasion for us to reflect upon how we can continue to engage to advance an environment that values diversity and ensures an inclusive environment for everyone.