October is LGBTQ+ History Month, an important time to learn about and celebrate members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and gender expansive community.
While Pride Month occurs in June, LGBTQ+ History Month in October aligns with Rodney Wilson’s hope to teach students about the community’s history when they were already in a place of learning. Wilson, a Missouri high school educator, is credited with launching LGBTQ+ History Month in 1994.
October additionally has several other days of importance for LGBTQ communities, including National Coming Out Day on October 11, National Pronouns Day on October 16, and Intersex Awareness Day on October 26. We also honor Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20.
These days are important reminders and opportunities to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and their expressions of individuality. Consider how you can learn about and support the LGBTQ+ community this month through the events and resources below.
Emerson Events and Resources
Thank You for Being a Friend
Sponsored by EBONI (Emerson Black Organization with Natural Interests, Cultural Engagement Center, and Emerson College Pride Coalition.
In honor of National Coming Out Day, join us for Thank You for Being a Friend, a community dinner and conversation with remarks from Professor Dr. Deion Hawkins. Afterward, we will walk together to the Bright Lights Studio for ArtsEmerson’s main event, Golden Gals and Gays: The Life and Enduring Afterlives of The Golden Girls with Dr. Alfred L. Martin. This evening will focus on why The Golden Girls remain so deeply cherished in queer and Black communities.
Thursday, October 16, 5:00 p.m.
Owens Multipurpose Room, 172 Tremont St.
Learn More: The Pride Coalition
Golden Gals and Gays: The Life and Enduring Afterlives of The Golden Girls
Cinema Emerson Presents the work of scholar Dr. Alfred L. Martin, Jr. who will deliver a screening and presentation on his work about Black and gay fandom for the sitcom The Golden Girls. The event will consist of a screening of two Golden Girls episodes followed by Dr. Martin’s presentation and a Q&A moderated by Associate Professor Ken Feil. Co-sponsored by Emerson College School of Film, Television, & Media Arts, The Cultural Engagement Center, The Pride Coalition and EBONI.
Thursday, October 16, Doors at 6:30. Event 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Bright Family Screening Room, Paramount Theater, 559 Washington St., Boston 02111
eQual
eQual is Emerson’s Employee Resource Network (ERN) open to all staff and faculty. eQual aims to create an inclusive and supportive community for staff and faculty who are LGBTQ and allies.
eQual Contact: Matt Finn and Eli Martinez at equalcochairs@emerson.edu
The Boston Public Library offers meaningful opportunities to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month this October, with crafts and a documentary screening of Every Body followed by a discussion for Intersex Awareness Day.
The Queer Neighborhood Council (TQNC), a Boston-based nonprofit supporting the LGBTQIA community with events, advocacy, and civic engagement, has organized an exciting series of events in October and throughout the year.
Los Angeles Events
The Los Angeles LGBT Center is building a world where LGBT people thrive as healthy, equal, and complete members of society. During the month of October they partnered with the ONE Archives Foundation to present: Circa: Queer Histories Festival, a month-long programming series showcasing the trailblazing histories and vibrant cultural contributions of LGBTQ+ communities through the lens of present-day challenges and triumphs.
Save the Date: WorldPride Amsterdam 2026
WorldPride is a global event that promotes visibility and awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues internationally. Amsterdam will host WorldPride from July 25 to 8 August 8, 2026. Check out Pride Amsterdam 2025.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RomSINAC1g8
Learn More
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LGBTQIA Museums and History from Emerson’s Iwasaki Library
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LGBTQ History from the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN)
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LGBTQIA+ Resources from Facing History & Ourselves
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EOwdFPKTZw&pp=ygUgbGdidHEgaGlzdG9yeSBtb250aCBvY3RvYmVyIDIwMjU%3D