Celebrating Queer History Month in Canada

A special article from the OSSTF/FEESO 2SLGBTQIA+ Committee

October is QueeHistory Month — a time to celebrate the stories, struggles, and contributions of Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people in Canada.

The month traces back to 1994, when Missouri teacher Rodney Wilson founded Gay and Lesbian History Month to coincide with the school year and Coming Out Day. What began in one classroom has become a global observance recognized at different times around the world.

Canada has a rich 2SLGBTQIA+ history rooted in advocacy, creativity, and resilience. Many Indigenous cultures have long recognized gender and sexual diversity, with more than two-thirds of the 200+ Indigenous languages on Turtle Island including words for identities beyond the Western gender binary.

For educators, this month offers a chance to share these histories — from human rights milestones to ongoing movements for inclusion — and to help students understand how 2SLGBTQIA+ people have shaped our communities and culture.

Explore More Resources:

• Love in a Dangerous Time: Teacher Guide
• The ArQuives: Education Resources
• Canadian Pride Historical Society
• Defining Moments Canada – Proud to Be