Learn more about the history behind this annual celebration
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY DIVERSIFYLENS
For the last three decades, LGBT+ History Month has been reminding us of the importance of knowing our backstories.
Founded by a Missouri high school teacher called Rodney Wilson in 1994, this observance now spans the world. In the UK, the month-long celebration of history has been going since 2005, taking place in February to coincide with the abolition of Section 28. Countries like Canada and Germany have their own interpretations of the month, using it as a springboard to educate people about the queer trailblazers who have shaped the world around us.
It is because of LGBT+ History Month that you will have queer teens knowing the names of historical icons such as Marsha P. Johnson, Alan Turing, Harvey Milk, and Audre Lorde. They’re certainly not learning that in a classroom. Despite the fact that we’re currently in 2025, our mainstream education still tends to omit the contribution of queer people in the past.
In previous years we have seen celebrations of LGBT+ History Month in a variety of forms: 10 Downing Street being illuminated by rainbow colours, talks and conferences happening around the world, and government officials talking about its importance. But we’re no longer living in those times.
This year’s LGBT+ History Month falls in a particularly dark period for LGBTQIA rights. In the wake of Trump’s inauguration, which has seen attempts to ban what he views as diversity, equity and inclusion programs like LGBT+ History Month, it is more vital than ever that we remember the LGBTQIA people who have fought for our rights in the past.
While we can celebrate the progress that has been made – with countries like Thailand seeing their first same-sex marriages taking place only last week – it is important to use the past as a tool for the future. Although Section 28 may be gone, the discussion of trans rights in politics bears a disturbing resemblance. Our history does not exist in isolation. It has informed everything we do, feel, and think.
Although things may seem unnaturally bleaker this LGBT+ History Month, it’s vital that we find light in remembering the people who have fought before us, and learn how we too may be able to protect our community.
In an era where misinformation and intolerance can spread rapidly, LGBT+ History Month serves as an antidote – reminding us of past struggles and the work still to be done. As we move forward, it is crucial to continue celebrating, educating, and advocating for a more inclusive future for all.
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