In This Story
You likely know about Pride Month in June, but you may not be as familiar with LGBTQ+ History Month in October. LGBTQ+ History Month highlights and celebrates the history and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. It has been celebrated since 1994 and coincides with National Coming Out Day on October 11.
For LGBTQ+ History Month, Assistant Professor Lucas Prieto shares the importance of the month and how it connects with his research.
Why do you think it’s important to observe/celebrate LGTBQ+ history month?
Prieto: We should acknowledge and celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month to remember the hardships past generations endured and the efforts to advance the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. This remembrance and celebration sheds light on the ongoing fight for equality and justice for all members of the LGBTQ+ community and brings awareness to the general public of current roadblocks. Additionally, understanding the culture and history of the LGBTQ+ community strengthens our society in being culturally competent and being proactive to not repeat wrongdoings in the future.
Who meaningful figure/person/group might we recognize during this month?
There are several iconic and meaningful figures that should be highlighted during this month. For example, Marsha P Johnson and Sylvia Rivera were notable activists who helped the LGBTQ rights movement. Johnson’s and Rivera’s advocacy work contributed to the Stonewall Riots, which was a pivotal uprising in NYC that boosted LGBTQ+ visibility. Furthermore, Johnson and Rivera worked closely with LGBTQ+ people who were experiencing houselessness and was an advocate for them.
How has your work/research helped build better understanding of LGBTQ+ history?
My research advances the discussion on sexual health among older sexual and gender minority populations. Previous research efforts that explore other aspects of sexual health beyond STDs and STIs among older gay men are limited. Thus, I recently conducted the SASSY study (Study on Sexual Satisfaction among Older Gay Men; SASSY) to explore sexual satisfaction among older gay men. The findings of my study contribute to the existing knowledge that may aide primary care providers, clinicians, and educators in improving older gay men’s sexual health. I plan to continue my work and examine sexual satisfaction among other older sexual and gender minority populations in the near future.
Prieto teaches in the Department of Social Work in Mason’s College of Public Health, researches sexual health, and is passionate about advancing the discussions concerning sexual satisfaction and health disparities among older LGBTQIA+ populations.