LGBTQ+ History Month is an annual month-long celebration dedicated to recognising queer history and the ongoing fight for queer rights. Founded by history teacher Rodney Wilson in 1994 in a Missouri high school, the observance has since spread globally. In the UK, the first LGBTQ+ History Month was held in 2005, making it a significant part of the country’s annual calendar. While the celebration originated in the United States, each country observes the month at different times, with the UK marking it in February and North America in October.
In the UK, LGBTQ+ History Month was introduced by the education charity Schools OUT UK, founded by Paul Patrick and Sue Sanders. The charity’s core mission is to eliminate prejudice and create space to “claim our past, celebrate our present, and create our future.” Though the UK’s LGBTQ+ History Month came a decade after the US’, it is now critical in raising awareness about the struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.
Each year’s theme for LGBTQ+ History Month brings focus to different figures and struggles in queer history. For 2025, the theme is “Activism and Social Change”, a timely reminder of the ongoing fight for equality within the LGBTQ+ community. This theme highlights the struggles, milestones, and progress made, while also encouraging education and action for future advancements. The five historical figures spotlighted this year include National Trust founder Octavia Hill, the “father of the Windrush generation” Ivor Cummings, suffragette Annie Kenney, trade unionist Charlie Kiss, and abolitionist Olaudah Equiano. By elevating the stories of queer historical figures, the celebration not only honours their contributions but also provides LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, with much-needed role models. Many LGBTQ+ people struggle with identifying figures from history who reflect their own experiences, and as a result, these figures become a source of connection, validation, and inspiration for the community.
LGBTQ+ History Month differs from Pride Month, which is celebrated globally in June. While Pride Month focuses on the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community through marches, festivals, and political activism, LGBTQ+ History Month takes a more reflective approach. Pride emphasises the future of the community and the push for equality and rights, whereas LGBTQ+ History Month is about re-examining the past, acknowledging important historical figures, and presenting their lives from a new perspective.
At the University of Edinburgh, LGBTQ+ History Month initiatives play a significant role in shaping the university’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. These initiatives are vital in assessing how inclusive the university’s policies, resources, and spaces are for LGBTQ+ students and staff. The results of these efforts often lead to tangible changes, whether it’s the introduction of gender-neutral restrooms or adjustments to mental health support services aimed at better supporting LGBTQ+ students.
Moreover, LGBTQ+ History Month offers several opportunities for students at Edinburgh University to engage with queer history and culture. This year, the university is hosting a range of events to mark the occasion:
- LGBTQuizzing Afternoon
- Date: Friday, 21st February
- This event will allow you to meet new people, learn about LGBTQ+ history, and test your knowledge in a fun and engaging way.
- LGBTQ+ History Month Seminar and Social
- Date: Thursday, 28th February (lunchtime)
- A seminar featuring speakers from both staff and students, this event will provide insights into historical LGBTQ+ knowledge and the importance of continued education on the subject.
- Library’s Dissertation and Thesis Festival: Discovery Day
- Date: Wednesday, 26th February
- Held by the Lothian Health Services Archive (LHSA), this event will feature a special focus on LGBTQ+ archival resources, offering access to both primary and secondary sources related to queer history.
Through these initiatives, the university can continue to assess its policies and practices, ensuring that LGBTQ+ students feel supported and valued in every aspect of university life, whilst also providing many opportunities to engage with the LGBTQ+ community.
Photo by Raphael Renter on Unsplash.
