Why October Matters

As we prepare to celebrate LEAGUE's Ruby Jubilee next year, I've been thinking about the people who brought us here: the colleagues who built this community, the friendships that sustained it, and the moments that helped someone feel they belonged.

That's what makes history personal.

Behind every milestone are people whose stories deserve to be remembered.

In this second post of our LGBTQ+ History Month series, I want to reflect on why October matters.
LGBTQ+ History Month was created to ensure our community's stories, contributions, and experiences would be remembered, shared, and taught. That purpose feels especially meaningful as LEAGUE approaches its 40th anniversary.

The observance began in 1994 when educator Rodney Wilson and a group of community leaders established a month dedicated to recognizing LGBTQ+ history and contributions. October was chosen because schools were in session and because it included National Coming Out Day on October 11, connecting education, visibility, and community.

For LEAGUE, this moment feels especially significant.

Founded in 1987, our organization was already building community years before LGBTQ+ History Month began. As we look toward our Ruby Jubilee in 2027, we're not only reflecting on our history, we're collecting and preserving the stories that make that history real.

One of the privileges of serving as LEAGUE's president and CEO is hearing the stories people share about this community. Stories of friendship, mentorship, support, and belonging. Stories of people who found encouragement during difficult moments or discovered a place where they could be themselves.

Many of those moments may seem small at the time.

A welcoming conversation. An introduction to a new friend. A mentor who offered guidance. An ally who stood beside a colleague when it mattered.

But those moments are part of our history too.

As we look toward our Ruby Jubilee, I'd love to hear from you.

What is your earliest LEAGUE memory? Who helped you feel welcome? Was there a moment when this community made a difference in your life?

Share what you're comfortable sharing in the comments or reach out to me directly.

Sometimes it's the small memories that tell us the most about who we are and what we've built together.

Thank you for being part of LEAGUE's story and for helping carry it forward.

Honoring our history. Building what's next. Together.

#LGBTQHistoryMonth #LEAGUE #RubyJubilee #Belonging #Inclusion #PrideAtWork