October has arrived and autumn is teasing us with cool temps and low humidity. Pumpkin spice fills the air and we’re busy planning our spooky season celebrations. We love October. But something else is taking place that far fewer people, even those in our community, are aware of… it’s LGBTQ History Month. We can’t help but be filled with a sense of reverence and anticipation on this sunny first day of October. This month-long observance is a tribute to the diverse narratives, milestones, and the indomitable spirit of the LGBTQ community. It's a time to delve into the rich tapestry of experiences, struggles, and triumphs that have significantly contributed to societal change and acceptance.

The inception of LGBTQ History Month dates back to 1994, initiated by Rodney Wilson, a Missouri high school teacher. The choice of October for this observance aligns with existing commemorations like National Coming Out Day on October 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights on October 14, 1979.

As we step into this month of commemoration, we'll journey through time, revisiting pivotal moments, influential figures, and significant events that have shaped the LGBTQ narrative:

• Historical Profiles: Discover the lives and legacies of pivotal LGBTQ figures like Marsha P. Johnson, along with modern-day activists who continue to push the boundaries.
• Significant Events: Revisit landmark events like the Stonewall Riots, the global equality movement, and the social impact of New Orleans’ own Southern Decadence that galvanized the LGBTQ rights movement.
• Cultural Contributions: Celebrate the indelible mark LGBTQ individuals have made in the arts, media, science, and technology. Explore the history and work of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group known for their unique advocacy.
• Historical Venues: Step into America's Oldest Gay Bar, Cafe Lafitte's In Exile, and learn about its enduring legacy in the LGBTQ community.
• Local Histories: Dive into Louisiana's Queer History, exploring the local narratives that contribute to the larger LGBTQ story.
• Community Movements: Understand the role of the trans and leather communities in the fight for equality and how their advocacy has been instrumental in pushing for legal and societal acceptance.
• Educational Insights: Debunk common myths, learn about LGBTQ terminology, and explore resources for mental health and wellness.
• Reflection and Future Pathways: Reflect on the pendulum swing of equality through history, and envision the path forward towards a more inclusive society.

This month, we invite you to engage with us as we explore these and many more significant aspects of the LGBTQ community. Share your stories, educate yourself and others, and let's celebrate the resilience, love, and diversity that bind us together. The narrative of the LGBTQ community is a testament to the enduring spirit of fight and the continuous pursuit of equality. Each story, each battle, and each victory takes us a step closer to a more inclusive and accepting world.

Join us in this month-long exploration of our history, as we not only look back on our shared past but also look forward to the future we all envision - a future filled with acceptance, love, and equal rights for all.

Stay tuned for a rich array of content that educates, celebrates, and inspires. Engage with us, share your stories, and let’s make this LGBTQ History Month a meaningful and enlightening experience for all.

‍