October is LGBTQ History Month
Learn about the importance of LGBT History Month with MY HERO's curated multi-media showcase of LGBT activism.
For more LGBTQ+ heroes who have shaped culture, check out our page celebrating LGBT Pride Month.
Teachers: Visit the free MY HERO Lesson Plan for LGBT History Month. Includes multimedia content, discussion guide and learning outcomes.
MY HERO 2023 Film Festival Finalists
Watch these inspiring short films about LGBTQ+ acceptance.
History of the LGBTQ movement and early activists.
This film, The Top 10 Important LGBTQ Movements in US History, looks at the most important LGBTQ milestones in US History. These moments include the Stonewall Riots, the first Pride parade, the publishing of The Transsexual Phenomenon, the passing of the Matthew Shepard Act, and more. Although the introduction of bills and laws is definitely monumental, the filmmakers have chosen to exclude events like the introduction of the Equality Act and instead focus on the legislation once they have been passed.
Rodney Wilson, a high school teacher from Missouri, created LGBT History Month in 1994. He chose October because it included National Coming Out Day (October 11) and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBTQ+ people on October 14, 1979.
Art from the Gallery that represents leaders and the spirit of the original Gay rights movement in the United States
Harvey Milk was an American politician and first openly gay elected official in California who advocatedfor gay rights
These four stories celebrate heroes who were LGBTQ trailblazers in their respective fields.
Milk was the first openly gay politician and worked to gain equal rights for the LGBT community.
In 1978, Harvey Milk was one of the first gay public officials in San Fransisco. His dream was for a better tomorrow filled with hope for equality and a world without hate. It is recommended students read the essay and research Harvey Milk. Discuss how he was influential as an early LGBT activist. Do you know anyone in your community who is a LGBT activist? Consider sharing that story with MY HERO.
The Following Film The Mayor of Castro Street: The Triumphs and Tragedies of Harvey Milk Is Recommended for High School Students (10 min. run time)
Marsha P. Johnson was an American gay liberation activist who was a prominent figure in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. After learning about Marcha P. Johnson, research the Stonewall Uprising. Who were others involved? Share their story with MY HERO.
Marsha P. Johnson
Selection of Stories
Felix Gonzalez-Torres was a Cuban American visual artist whose work reflected the LGBT community and the AIDS epidemic. (Story with Text and Audio)
Freddie Mercury was the memorable lead singer of the band Queen.
External Links
GLAAD | LGBT History Month
GLAAD was formed in 1985 in response to the New York Post's grossly defamatory and sensationalized HIV and AIDS coverage by a small group of journalists and writers. Today GLAAD's mission is to rewrite the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change.
The Best Friendly LGBTQ Movies, TV Shows and Books
To amplify works that are celebrated by the LGBTQ+ community, check out this list of the 62 best LGBTQ+ friendly movies, TV shows, and books.
Outstanding essays submitted to MY HERO will be considered for a certificate/t-shirt prize or be featured on the Story Homepage.
Submit your artwork to be entered in the MY HERO art contest or to be exhibited on our Gallery Homepage.
Students can submit their films for free with a waiver to the MY HERO International Film Festival.
Organizer created on 8/24/2013 2:48:08 PM by MY HERO Staff
Last edited 10/2/2023 12:20:29 PM by Abigail Richardson
