LGBT History Month was created in 1994 by a high school history teacher in Missouri called Rodney Wilson. The month, which garnered early support from organizations such as GLAAD and the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), was initially chosen to include the by-then well-established National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11 and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14. The month now also includes Spirit Day on Oct. 20, on which people around the country wear purple in support of LGBT youth; Ally Week, a week in which allies against LGBT bullying are celebrated; and the anniversary of 21-year-old Matthew Shepard’s murder on Oct. 12, 1998, which sparked the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.

Each year MileStone Academy focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community and their history. Our sustained dialogue transforms deep-rooted human conflicts, stigmas, and taboos.

MileStone applauds the efforts of organizations such as GLAAD, PFLAG, and the Human Rights Campaign. They each provide a platform, support, and resources accessible to LGBT+, locally and nationally.

You are invited to celebrate LGBT+ history with us by sharing your story. We will share your story with our students and supporters. Contact us to share your story and photographs or videos.

Watch this National Coming Out Day PSA Video by NFL superstars!