Did You Know October is LGBT History Month

I learned something new today: October is LGBT History Month.

As a supporter of equal rights for all human beings, I was happy to discover the website http://lgbthistorymonth.com, which provides biographies on 31 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgendered icons who have made significant contributions to the community. The tradition first began in 1994 when a Missouri high school teacher (Rodney Wilson) promoted LGBT history during the month of October. Until this time, LGBT history was the only community whose history was not being taught in schools, in most homes, or elsewhere in society. The official recognition of LGBT history is an important way to advocate for this too-often marginalized group.

As the website states,  “LGBT History Month provides role models, builds community, and makes the civil rights statement of our extraordinary national and international contributions.”

After delving into the information in this resource, I learned that one of my favorite comedians, Margaret Cho, was chosen to be honored on the 11th day of this month. Although married to a man, Margaret refers to herself as gay and has taken advantage of her celebrity status to promote her strong stance against bullying and discrimination.

I am so very grateful for people like Margaret Cho. People who showed up in my life (even if only through media) at a pivotal time and contributed to my education about the LGBT community…a topic that had been tainted by misinformation and unkind, discriminatory comments during my childhood in the rural south. Coming from a culture often focused on differences and hierarchy, I have benefitted from having opportunities to get to know real people and to hear the thoughts of role models in the media. It has given me a clearer understanding of my own self and the many things I have in common with all people despite any differences we may have on the surface.

In fact, I think Margaret Cho said it best…“Try to love someone you want to hate, because they are just like you, somewhere inside, in a way you may never expect.”

Peace and equality,

Shea