LGBTQ+ History Month

LGBTQ+ History Month: What’s Allowed and What Still Works

Each October, schools across the country observe LGBTQ+ History Month to honor the people, events, and movements that have shaped LGBTQ+ history. For students in Florida, this month can be a powerful opportunity to feel seen, connected, and included in the broader story of civil rights and progress.

But in recent years, growing restrictions on identity-based instruction have caused confusion. Some schools have canceled planned events, removed displays, or discouraged student groups from participating at all. Others simply do not know what is legally allowed.

Despite these challenges, LGBTQ+ History Month is still legal in Florida schools. The key is understanding what the law says and how schools can act in ways that are affirming, creative, and compliant.

What the Law Says

Florida law currently prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in grades K through 8. In grades 9 through 12, instruction is permitted only if it aligns with specific state academic standards. These limits come from the Parental Rights in Education Act and House Bill 1069, now codified in Florida Statutes 1001.42 and 1003.42.

However, these laws restrict classroom instruction, not cultural or historical recognition. LGBTQ+ History Month is not banned. Schools are still allowed to recognize historical figures, highlight community contributions, and create opportunities for student-led learning and expression.

In other words, how the month is celebrated matters more than whether it is celebrated at all.

What Schools Can Still Do

There are many fully legal and student-centered ways to observe LGBTQ+ History Month in Florida. These include:

• Bulletin boards, posters, or book displays honoring LGBTQ+ historical figures

• Morning announcements that feature LGBTQ+ authors, artists, or activists

• GSA-sponsored events, trivia games, or art projects

• QR codes linking to LGBTQ+ history timelines or community stories

• Optional classroom writing or research assignments that connect to broader social studies or English Language Arts standards

These activities are not considered direct instruction on identity. They are cultural recognitions, student-driven programs, and public celebrations of civil rights history—none of which are prohibited by law.

What Broward County Shows Is Still Possible

Broward County Public Schools continues to be a statewide leader in affirming students. In recent years, the Broward School Board has passed multiple pro-LGBTQ+ resolutions, including one specifically supporting LGBTQ+ History Month.

These resolutions publicly commit the district to recognizing the month, supporting inclusive programming, and making space for LGBTQ+ students and staff to feel seen. Even under state pressure, Broward has demonstrated that school districts still have local authority to affirm community values and recognize marginalized groups in lawful, student-centered ways.

If it is possible in Broward, it can be possible elsewhere too.

What to Do If Your School Pushes Back

If your school blocks a poster, cancels a GSA event, or removes LGBTQ+ displays:

• Ask for a written explanation of the decision

• Request a copy of your school’s policies on free expression and student clubs

• Document what was removed and who made the decision

• Contact a school board member or file a public comment

• Reach out to PRISM for help understanding your rights

Often, pushback is based on fear, not law. Students still have the right to free speech, and school clubs cannot be treated differently based on their viewpoint.

Why It Matters

LGBTQ+ History Month helps students see that they are not alone and that LGBTQ+ people have always been part of the American story. It provides an opportunity to celebrate resilience, honor contributions, and build community in schools where students too often feel invisible.

Even in a restrictive legal climate, the month still belongs to students, teachers, and families who care about equity, truth, and belonging. PRISM is here to help you celebrate safely, speak up when your rights are challenged, and make sure LGBTQ+ students are never erased.