Broward Schools in Florida Encourage K 12 Students to Celebrate LGBT History Month in October

(AP File Photo)

The Broward school district in Florida has endorsed what is being called a “groundbreaking” resolution encouraging K-12 students to celebrate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender History Month this October, the Sun Sentinel reports.

Begun in 1994 by a Missouri high school teacher, according to the Miami Herald, LGBT History Month has been recognized by a wide variety of adult politicians and public figures for years.  However it is not often celebrated in classrooms with young children, possibly because the topic is intrinsically sexual.

The Miami Herald continues:

“Administrators, teachers, staff, parents and students are encouraged to take part in LGBT History Month in any way that is most positive and uplifting to their schools and communities,” the [resolution] states. “And to coordinate efforts to highlight exemplary role models from the LGBT community.”

In Florida, where a Republican-dominated state Legislature has shown little interest in gay-rights issues, there is little chance of LGBT history being added to the state’s education curriculum anytime soon. Still, a supportive resolution from Broward, the nation’s sixth-largest school district, [is] significant.

Gay-rights advocates say LGBT History Month showcases civil-rights pioneers who are an important part of American history, and it can also boost the self-esteem of adolescents who may be struggling with their own emerging sexual identity, and who are often the targets of bullying.

“It gives youth a role model to look up to,” said Michael Rajner, a former member of the Broward school system’s Diversity Committee. “And to realize that they themselves are a wonderful human being, and can be a productive, important member of our society.” [Emphasis added]

Here is video further explaining LGBT History Month:

After the resolution passed, a 19-year-old student reportedly said he would mark the date down in his diary.

“Now everyone can be who they want to be,” he stated.

Broward County School Board member Nora Rupert added: “We want to promote equality for all of our children.”

(H/T: WeaselZippers)