LGBTQ History Month resources are essential tools for educators looking to create an inclusive and supportive environment in their classrooms.
LGBTQ History Month, celebrated every October, provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the significant contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals throughout history.
By incorporating these resources into your curriculum, you can help your students gain a deeper understanding of LGBTQ history, promote acceptance, and foster a classroom culture that celebrates diversity all year long.
LGBTQ History Month Resources for Teachers
To support you in bringing LGBTQ History Month into your classroom, we’ve gathered some valuable resources that you can use to create engaging and inclusive lessons.
These tools will help you educate students about the struggles, achievements, and ongoing contributions of LGBTQ individuals, ensuring that their stories are recognized and respected.
GLSEN
GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) is a leading organization dedicated to making schools safe and inclusive for all students, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. GLSEN offers a wealth of LGBTQ History Month resources designed specifically for educators. These include lesson plans, discussion guides, and classroom activities that cover a wide range of topics related to LGBTQ history and inclusion.
One particularly useful resource is GLSEN’s “History UnErased” project, which integrates LGBTQ history into the broader context of American history. This project provides educators with lesson plans that explore key moments in LGBTQ history, such as the Stonewall Riots and the fight for marriage equality, while also highlighting the contributions of LGBTQ individuals in various fields, including the arts, science, and politics.
Explore GLSEN’s educator resources here: GLSEN Educator Resources
The Legacy Project
The Legacy Project is an organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating LGBTQ history. Their LGBTQ History Month resources include a comprehensive collection of biographical profiles, historical timelines, and educational materials that highlight the lives and achievements of LGBTQ individuals throughout history.
One of the standout features of The Legacy Project is its “Legacy Walk,” an outdoor museum that features plaques dedicated to influential LGBTQ figures. While the physical Legacy Walk is located in Chicago, the project’s website offers a virtual tour, complete with detailed information about each honoree. Teachers can use this virtual tour as an interactive classroom activity, allowing students to explore the contributions of LGBTQ individuals in a visually engaging way.
The Legacy Project also offers downloadable lesson plans and discussion guides that help educators incorporate LGBTQ history into their teaching. These resources are designed to be adaptable for various age groups and can be used to facilitate meaningful discussions about LGBTQ rights, representation, and history.
Visit The Legacy Project’s resources here: The Legacy Project
ONE Institute
Formerly known as the ONE Archives Foundation, ONE Institute offers a wealth of educational resources and programs designed to inspire transformative stories of LGBTQ history and broaden the perspectives of educators, students, and researchers. Their lesson plans, primary sources, and digital exhibitions provide a deep dive into topics like LGBTQ civil rights, activism, and notable figures.
ONE Institute also offers professional development opportunities to help educators diversify their curricula and create affirming learning environments. Through these programs, teachers gain tools to bring LGBTQ history into their classrooms in meaningful ways.
Explore One Institute’s educational materials and digital projects: ONE Institute
More resources from The Educator Academy:
Incorporate LGBTQ History Year-Round
While LGBTQ History Month is a time to focus on the contributions and struggles of LGBTQ individuals, it’s important to remember that these lessons should be integrated into your curriculum throughout the year. By consistently including LGBTQ history in your teaching, you help create a more inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and respected.
As you plan your lessons this month, remember that the goal is not just to educate your students about the past, but also to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion in the present.
By using these resources, you’ll be helping to create a classroom culture that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all students.
Happy teaching!