Hi, Friend of Trevor,

In 1994, Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson came out to his students while teaching a history lesson about the Holocaust. He explained to his class that had he lived during that time, he may not have survived because he was gay.

Inspired by this pivotal moment, Rodney founded LGBTQ History Month to celebrate the impactful stories of the LGBTQ community and educate against the homophobia that was fueled by the AIDS crisis. Rodney chose October to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11th, and to commemorate the first and second marches on Washington, D.C. for LGBTQ rights in 1979 and 1987. October is also a month when school is in session, and Rodney saw this as an opportunity to teach young people about LGBTQ history more broadly.

As a valued supporter of The Trevor Project, you understand that even though our world today is more accepting and supportive than it was in 1994, coming out still isn't always safe for LGBTQ young people.

Many are afraid of rejection and for their personal safety, or may not have an affirming adult like Rodney Wilson to turn to. Our research shows that acceptance from at least one adult can decrease the risk of an LGBTQ young person attempting suicide by 40%.

In those dark moments, Trevor is here, offering free support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — and saving young LGBTQ lives.

Throughout the month, we're going to introduce you to some of The Trevor Project’s crisis counselors and their life-saving work. We'll also share a few ways you can join Trevor in creating the world that we all want — a place in which every LGBTQ young person knows they are loved, valued, and never alone.

We're so glad you’re part of our community!

—Team Trevor