As LGBTQ+ History Month begins, members of the Barstow community reflect upon what it means to them and how they’ll honor it this year.

LGBTQ+ History Month was first started by Missouri high school teacher, Rodney Wilson, in 1994. Since its official recognition in 1995, LGBTQ+ History Month has been celebrated every October in the U.S., U.K., Finland, Hungary, Germany, Italy, Cuba, Canada, and Australia. This time of recognition is just as important for the Barstow community.

A Barstow student, who prefers to remain anonymous, reflects upon the significance of having a Missourian as the catalyst for LGBTQ+ History Month, “If nothing else, [it’s significant] because of events and laws that have made Missouri and many other states, particularly in the Midwest, unsafe for queer people.” There’s a lot to be said for the ways this kind of recognition can impact local queer communities and tie back to the roots of said communities in the K.C. area. 

At the start of October, an icon of or activist for the queer community is honored each day. Past examples of honorees include David Bowie, Wade Davis II, Frank Ocean, Virginia Wolfe, and, of course, RuPaul. You can find the list of this year’s honorees here. 

One student’s favorite icon this year is “my absolute king George Michael.” Despite producing hits like “Careless Whisper”, Michael faced an onslaught of homophobia for his pride in his sexuality during a period in American history where such self-expression was deemed unacceptable.  

Nominations given by students for future honorees include Qween Jean, a trans human rights activist and founder of the Black Trans Liberation Kitchen based in New York City, and English singer-songwriter Charlie XCX, who took over the music world by storm during the summer with her recent album, brat. 

For many, LGBTQ+ History Month is a time of reflection. “It’s important to me to recognize those who came before who gave so much so that queer kids today feel more supported,” says another anonymous student. 

October is a period where those who have lost their lives to anti-queer violence are recognized in vigils in cities across the country as well as on an individual basis among members in the community. 

“It’s a time where I reflect on how far our community has come, especially here at Barstow,” says Tyler Bauman ‘25. Specifically, they’re appreciative of the ways that teachers support these students, like creating safe spaces in their classrooms, and the inclusion of analysis of queer literature in English classes.  

Barstow’s Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) has some club activities planned that correspond with this month of recognition. They’ll have a slideshow presentation and an open group discussion for members of the community to have the chance to bring up topics where they might not otherwise feel comfortable in doing so. 

According to Bauman, one member of GSA’s central planning committee, they’re also planning on creating some posters for the icons who are being recognized this year. They’ll likely be partnering with Ms. Lea, a MS & US art teacher, on the project. 

However, creating a safe space and holding personal or sensitive discussions are not unique to LGBTQ+ History Month in GSA. Every meeting is an opportunity for students to connect amongst each other, even if it’s over difficult topics, as GSA strives to make sure everyone feels supported in the community. 

In addition to club meetings, the club leaders of GSA are making an effort to reach out to other schools’ clubs and form a stronger connection to Kansas City’s queer community. There will also be several service opportunities with GSA this year, if you’re interested in participating. 

During this month of recognition, be sure to check in on your own biases and do some self reflection. Check in on queer students to make sure they’re doing alright, too, in an effort to create a stronger and more welcoming community here at Barstow!