History

October is observed as National LGBTQ History Month celebrating the history and achievements of the LGBTQ community. Begun in 1994 it was first proposed by Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson, who chose October due to the establishment of National Coming Out Day in the late 1980’s on October 11.  October was also the first and second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, which took place in 1979 and 1987 accordingly. 

What sets this month apart from June (PRIDE Month) is that the PRIDE movement was born from the Stonewall riots of 1969 and the early gay liberation movement, which has had a strong political drive as a march and parade.  LGBTQ History Month embraces PRIDE and the need to know, celebrate, and commemorate our contributions to history. This awareness month is not only a local endeavor but also a global phenomenon celebrated by nine countries, including Cuba joining in 2022. Each country has a significant month that is set aside as it relates to its historical events. In the United States, October events are coordinated to encourage honesty and openness about looking back at our past to embrace our future.

LGBTQ people benefit from seeing themselves in historical contexts.  Representation matters.  Given the opportunity to reflect on the impact of our history, we strive for better social, economic, and political basic human rights among the LGBTQ community. Having our city leadership proclaim the month of October as LGBTQ History Month is one small step in celebrating the great diversity that makes up the “hub city”. 

What is a proclamation?

A proclamation is an official document issued by the Mayor to commemorate a specific time period (ex. day, week, or month). It brings recognition or awareness to an issue, cause, milestone, or noteworthy event that is relevant and important to our city. Proclamations are strictly honorary and not legally binding.

Who can submit a proclamation?

Anyone may make a proclamation request; however, proclamations must have a direct relationship to the City/County residents, events, achievements, services, or noteworthy causes. The decision to issue a proclamation is made completely at the discretion of the Mayor.

What does the proclamation say?

Click on the "sample proclamation" button below.

How do we achieve this?

We are writing letters to our local representatives to inform them of the importance of such an action to residents of Lubbock and to request action.

Why writing a letter matters:

A letter-writing campaign makes it easy for you to get involved and advocate for yourself and your community.  A letter allows us to share our stories with elected representatives.  We hope to move representatives into action that benefits the LGBTQ+ communities and their allies.

Step 2: Find Your Representative

Once you know your district, address your letter to your specific City Council Representative. 

Step 3: Take Action | Send your letter to your representative.

a. Download the sample letter/email templates.

b. Edit your letter accordingly.

c. Include the sample PROCLAMATION in your envelope or email

d. Mail your letter or send your email.

What if I want to send an email?

We have an email template you are welcome to use.  We ask that you use the email system as a follow-up rather than the main action for sending your letter.

Can I download a PDF with all information include in one document?

Yes, please feel free to use our PDF toolkit to share with others.

Have a question?

If you have a question that is not included in our FAQ's please email contact@outwestlubbock.org