October is LGBTQ+ History Month — a time to honor the strength, brilliance, and contributions of our community. While a few names and milestones have made it into textbooks, so many others who shaped our culture and progress remain overlooked.

​​Today, sharing these stories is especially important. Across the country, efforts to limit LGBTQ+ representation in classrooms and libraries are growing — with books being banned and inclusive curricula being challenged. In moments like these, preserving and passing on our history becomes essential.

Queer History Icons Worth Knowing — and Sharing

We’re here to highlight powerful stories you might not know — like Stormé DeLarverié (aka The Guardian of the Community) — a drag king, singer, and fierce protector who helped spark the Stonewall Riots in 1969.

We also honor James Baldwin, a groundbreaking writer and thinker whose work on race, sexuality, and justice continues to shape conversations today. His bold, honest voice still inspires generations.

Icons like DeLarverié and Baldwin show us that LGBTQ+ history is richer and more diverse than what we’ve been taught. With LGBTQ+ representation under threat in schools and libraries, sharing these stories has never been more important. Learn more about these two plus a few more icons and celebrate history today.

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LGBTQ+ History Month is not just about remembering the past — it’s about carrying these stories forward. By learning, sharing, and honoring our history, we keep alive the legacy of those who fought to make the world more inclusive and affirming.

Together, we can continue building a future where every LGBTQ+ young person sees themselves reflected in history — and knows they have the power to shape what comes next.

Support from individuals like you enables The Trevor Project to continue our work to end LGBTQ+ youth suicide through our crisis services as well as the development of resources and guides like these to promote education and allyship.