LGBTQ+ History Month

Every October, Kenyon proudly celebrates National LGBTQ+ History Month. On this page, you can learn more about our past programming in recognition of queer and transgender history.

About LGBTQ+ History Month

National LGBTQ+ History Month was first celebrated in 1994; the month was chosen because of National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11. During the month, we highlight the importance of queer and transgender history and celebrate our community’s achievements. We also create time to reflect on the struggles that our community has overcome.

National LGBTQ+ History Month is distinctly different from LGBTQ+ Pride Month, which is celebrated in June. While we recognize and take pride in our community throughout the year, National LGBTQ+ History Month is a specific time to reflect upon the historical significance of the queer and transgender community.

LGBTQ+ History Month at Kenyon

Kenyon celebrates National LGBTQ+ History Month with a robust, intersectional set of programs, including a lecture in recognition of the month and programming for National Coming Out Day. During LGBTQ+ History Month at Kenyon, there will be a number of diverse programs aimed at academic, co-curricular and community engagement.

The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion collaborates with on-campus departments, student groups and community organizations to celebrate the month in an intersectional and inclusive way. If your organization or department wants to get involved with LGBTQ+ History Month, please contact ODEI.

LGBTQ+ History Month 2019

In fall 2019, Kenyon will sponsor a number of on-campus programs in recognition of LGBTQ+ History Month, and many of these programs feature cross-collaborations with other departments and community organizations.

Most notably, the annual LGBTQ+ History Month lecture will be delivered by Eric Marcus, the founder and host of the Making Gay History Podcast, and the National Coming Out Day lecture will be delivered by Ramona Peel, the lead trainer for the Equitas Health Institute.

The celebration will continue with a variety of programs, including a screening of "Paris Is Burning," a Kenyon Review podcast on LGBTQ+ literature and more. A number of programs are also sponsored by other organizations, including Adelante, the Crozier Center for Women and Unity House among others.

Each of these programs offers distinct, intersectional perspectives and celebrations of LGBTQ+ history, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate this month in the coming academic years.