LGBTQ+ History Month: Why it Matters and How to Teach it with Fun and Inclusion

February is a special time of the year as it’s recognized as LGBTQ+ History Month. This month is all about celebrating and acknowledging the amazing contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals throughout history. As teachers, it’s our duty to educate our students about this important time of the year and the issues still faced by the LGBTQ+ community.

Why Should We Teach LGBTQ+ History Month?

Teaching students about LGBT+ history is more than just adding a new topic to the curriculum. It’s about creating a more inclusive and diverse environment for all students. By learning about LGBTQ+ history, our students can develop a deeper understanding of equality, respect, and acceptance for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Also, educating students about LGBT+ history can help to reduce bullying and prejudice in the classroom. When students learn about the struggles faced by the LGBT+ community, they are more likely to become empathetic and understanding individuals.

Just Like Us provide resources to help end anti-LGBTQ+ bullying in schools

How to Make Teaching LGBTQ+ History Month Educational and Engaging

We’ll start with some fantastic sources of information and activities:

• Stonewall.org
• School’s Out LGBT History Month
• The Proud Trust
• ArtUK’s gallery + museum-based learning resources

And below are some fantastic ideas to make teaching LGBTQ+ history both fun and educational for students:

1. Facilitate a Class Chat

Ask students what they know already about LGBTQ+ history and what they would like to learn more about. Encourage open and respectful discussion to create a safe and inclusive classroom environment. A New Direction’s Teaching for Creativity Taster Cards are excellent starting points for both primary and secondary students (see the ‘See, Think, Wonder’ Taster card).

2. Watch and Read

Introduce students to the history of the LGBT+ movement by using suitable books and documentaries. Check out this reading list which is divided into age-specific book lists.

3. Research Inspirational Figures

Assign students to research a notable LGBTQ+ figure and present their findings to the class in a creative way. Some amazing figures to research include Harvey Milk, Oscar Wilde, Marsha P. Johnson, Noël Coward, and Alan Turing.

This wallchart highlights important legal milestones and identifies visible and significant contributions made by individuals and groups throughout history.

4. Feel Inspired

Encourage students to express their thoughts and feelings about LGBTQ+ history through creative projects such as drawing, painting, or writing poems. The educational resources from the Proud Trust and Stonewall (links above) offer fantastic sources of inspiration across the key stages.

• Petite Pantos produce theatre with a social conscience – suitable for a younger audience.
• Step into the shoes of key historical figures with ‘Speeches that Changed the World‘.

Teaching LGBTQ+ History Month is a fantastic opportunity to create a more inclusive and diverse learning environment for all students. By incorporating discussions, research projects, and creative activities, teachers can make learning about this important topic equally engaging and educational!

Check out our posts on our social media channels throughout the month and let us know how you have been celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month in the classroom!

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