In 1994, Rodney Wilson, Missouri's first openly gay school teacher, believed a month should be dedicated to the celebration and teaching of gay and lesbian history. He found support with  other teachers and community leaders and they selected October.  October was selected not just because public schools are in session but because the first and second LGBT Marches on Washington occurred in October, and because existing traditions, such as Coming Out Day (October 11), occur that month.

Check out resources and books on the LGBTQ+ History Month Virtual Display to learn more!