GLBT History Month
October is GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender) History Month and was first celebrated in 1994. Founded by Missouri high-school teacher Rodney Wilson, the dedication was first supported by many leaders and educators, including Kevin Boyer of Chicago’s Gerber/Hart Library, writer Paul Varnell of the Windy City Times, and Torey Wilson, a Chicago-area teacher. Rodney Wilson chose October because National Coming Out Day (Oct 11) was already a well-known annual “holiday,” and the first march on Washington by GLBT people took place in October of 1979. In 1996, Mayor Richard M. Daley officially proclaimed October GLBT History Month in Chicago.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cultures and relationships have been recorded since ancient civilizations. Unfortunately, the history of these instances and people have often been overlooked or suppressed. October is dedicated to encourage honesty and openness about the GLBT community and their contributions to society.
Chicago has a large and flourishing GLBT community, providing multitudes of gay-owned and gay-friendly bars, businesses, services, and organizations. Here’s a quick list of some of Chicago’s GLBT resources:
Government Services
Mayor’s Liaison to Gay/Lesbian Community: 312-744-7911
Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Gay/Lesbian Issues: 312-744-7911
Employment and Public Access Discrimination: 312-744-7584
Housing Discrimination: 312-744-2852
Hate Crime Support Services: 312-744-4432
Illinois Relay Service/Hearing-Impaired: 800-526-0857
Mayor’s Office of Inquiry and Information: 312-744-5000
Social Security Administration: 800-772-1213
State of Illinois AIDS Hotline: 800-AID-AIDS (TDD/TTY 800-782-0423)
For a full listing of hundreds of Chicago’s GLBT organizations, click here.
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