October Is LGBTQ+ History Month

A message from the Dean's Office.

October is LGBTQ+ History Month, which celebrates the achievements of LGBTQ+ icons all month long.

You may be wondering what the difference is between LGBTQ+ History Month and Pride Month, which is celebrated in June. Pride was initially inspired by the June 28, 1969 Stonewall Uprising. It is a time to recognize the impact that LGBTQ+ individuals have made on society and works to achieve equal justice and opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ History Month, which honors 31 LGBTQ+ icons, one for each day of the month, was created by a public school teacher in 1994 to educate and inspire members of the LGBTQ+ community who were not taught the community’s long history in school. LGBTQ+ History Month is an opportunity to introduce role models, build community, and acknowledge extraordinary contributors from the community.

I would also like to point out that today is National Coming Out Day. This day is celebrated on Oct. 11 each year to mark the anniversary of the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in 1987. As a result of the march, it was decided to create a national day to celebrate individuals coming out to friends or family about their sexuality.

As tradition, Out&Allied will host “Coming Out Stories” in October. As these stories are deeply personal, we want to acknowledge and show our support, as a school, for the members of our LGBTQ+ community and commend your bravery in sharing your story.

Out&Allied also is hosting an Effective Allyship Workshop with PwC on Oct. 25. All are welcome to register for the workshop to learn what allyship looks like in the workplace and how to transition into an advocate. This event will also be a great networking opportunity with PwC consultants.

This October, be sure to wear your Pride, support someone who is coming out in the way that they need, and spread awareness about these observances. At the Tepper School, we want all of our community members to feel a sense of belonging and support. Happy October and Happy LGBTQ+ History Month!

Sincerely,
Isabelle Bajeux
Tepper School Dean
Richard P. Simmons Professor of Finance