June is not the only month celebrating and honoring LGBTQ+ people. LGBT (or LGBTQ+) History Month is in October! First celebrated in October 1994, it was started by Missouri public school teacher Rodney Wilson (pictured below) and originally known as Gay History Month. Since then, the celebration has spread across the United States and to countries around the world.
One of the goals of LGBTQ+ History Month is educating teens and we’re honoring that with programming and resources for teens.
LGBTQ+ Figures in American History
On Friday October 23rd from 1:30-2:30 PM, we will be presenting LGBTQ+ Figures in America History Trivia for Teens. This is one of our America250 Programs and is a fast-paced mobile trivia game. A few of those figures included are Gilbert Baker (an activist who created the original Pride flag), Sylvia Rivera (a Trans rights pioneer who helped lead the Stonewall Uprising) and Bayard Rustin (a close advisor of Martin Luther King, Jr who helped plan the March on Washington). If you’re in grades 6-12, all you need to participate is yourself and your phone. You can enjoy a snack, learn something and- if you finish in the Top 3- win a prize.
Rainbow Inclusivity Alliance
Did you know DKPL now has a meetup for middle school students across the LGBTQ+ spectrum and their allies? Rainbow Inclusivity Alliance takes place every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month. Talk about your experiences in a welcoming, judgment-free environment, work on arts and crafts, enjoy snacks or just listen.
Books about LGBTQ+ History
Are you looking for books about LGBTQ+ history? You can find the books below and more on the shelves of our non-fiction and biographies section of the Teen collection between the Teen Room and the Sound Studio.
A Queer History of the United States for Young People by Michael Bronski
LGBTQ+ people have made an impact on American history for over 400 years. This dives into that history.
The Book of Awesome Queer Heroes by Eric Rosswood
Throughout world history, LGBTQ+ people have had an impact on science, art, sports and medicine. This is a guide to their impact.
Queer, There and Everywhere: 27 People Who Changed the World by Sarah Prager
LGBTQ+ people have been around- sometimes openly, sometimes closeted- throughout history. Learn about 27 of them ranging from the gender ambiguous Queen of Sweden to a bisexual blues singer.
Stonewall: Breaking Out in the Fight for Gay Rights by Ann Bausum
In 1969, there were almost no legal protections for LGBTQ+ people. One of the few places they could gather were gay bars where they were often arrested or harassed by law enforcement. In June 1969, customers at the Stonewall Inn in New York City fought back. Learn how the Stonewall Uprising changed American history.
Are you interested in finding more books or finding out more about programs? The Teen Services staff are happy to help you find them! You can use your free DKPL library card to check out a variety of materials, including books to video games. Stop by the Teen Room with any questions or contact the Teen Services Staff at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2450 or by email at [email protected].