October Month Long Observations
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month
- Breast Cancer Awareness Month
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- Down Syndrome Awareness Month
- Filipino American History Month
- German American Heritage Month
- Italian American Heritage Month
- Polish American Heritage Month
- Pedestrian Safety Month
LGBTQIA+ History Month
In 1994, a high school teacher, Rodney Wilson, advocated for a month dedicated to the teaching of gay and lesbian history. He gained the support from other teachers and community members in celebrating gay and lesbian history within public schools. They selected the month of October since schools were in session and important dates like Coming Out Day and the anniversary of the first march on Washington for gay rights occur within the month of October. In 2009, President Barack Obama declared October as LGBTQIA+ National History Month. This month-long observance celebrates the history of the gay rights movement, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender history, and highlights the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community.
October 4 – National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
This day honors the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQ2S+ people lost to ongoing violence and systemic discrimination. Sparked by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 2015 recommendations, a National Inquiry in 2019 confirmed the disproportionate violence and abuse Indigenous women face. Honoring this day means refusing silence, demanding accountability, and ensuring that every Indigenous woman, girl, and LGBTQ2S+ person is safe and valued.
How You Can Take Action
- Listen to the Community: Center the voices of Indigenous people. Build genuine relationships, seek their guidance, and honor their feedback on what is truly helpful and what may be harmful.
- Get Involved: Show up and support. Attend community events, volunteer your time, and advocate alongside Indigenous leaders and organizations.
- Offer Support: If possible, extend your professional skills, resources, or services to Indigenous communities and organizations. Your involvement, no matter the size, makes a difference.
- Commit to Ongoing Action: Recognize that this work is not just about one day of remembrance. Continue to learn, engage, and stand in solidarity to address systemic violence and injustice.
