By Jaelon Jackson
School of Social Work
The Queer, Sex and Power Event occurred on February 12, 2025 | Photo taken by Mabel Cruz
The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work is recognizing LGBTQ+ History Month this October, honoring the resilience, achievements and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals while reaffirming its commitment to creating an environment of respect and support for all students.
Established in 1994 by educator Rodney Wilson, LGBTQ+ History Month serves as a time to acknowledge the historical impact of LGBTQ+ individuals and the ongoing pursuit of fairness and understanding. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) describes the observance as “a time to shine the spotlight on people and moments that have changed the course of our history.” The national organization also emphasizes that the month “provides role models, builds community and represents a civil rights statement about the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.”
At the UTA School of Social Work, this observance aligns closely with the school’s mission of cultivating individuals and communities to foster well-being for a just society. Faculty, staff and students are guided by the school’s vision of building a transformative future through justice, fairness and social responsibility, values that reinforce the importance of belonging and compassion in professional and community life. By supporting student organization events and inviting members of the LGBTQ+ community to speak, such as Punkie Johnson and Joel Kim Booster, the School of Social Work helps in promoting conversations about issues affecting the community and the path forward.
Students are encouraged to explore topics such as social responsibility and ethical practice, preparing them to promote well-being and fairness in the communities they serve. This aligns closely with the National Association of Social Workers’ Code of Ethics.
“The NASW Code of Ethics reflects the commitment of all social workers to uphold the profession’s values and to act ethically. Principles and standards must be applied by individuals of good character who discern moral questions and, in good faith, seek to make reliable ethical judgments,” according to the NASW website.
The Human Rights Campaign, through evidence-based research, shows that education and visibility remain key components of progress. “LGBTQ+ History Month reminds us of the resilience that defines our community,” the organization notes, adding that representation in public spaces helps create places where everyone can live authentically and without fear.
The School of Social Work reflects that message through its continued efforts to build a welcoming environment for all.
From the 1969 Stonewall Uprising against police brutality to today, the LGBTQ+ movement has made significant strides, but continues to face challenges of discrimination, freedom of speech and violence.
While activists may differ in their approach to addressing these challenges, we seek to instill in our students the key importance of evidence-based advocacy and proper ethical judgment in their actions.
By recognizing LGBTQ+ History Month, the School of Social Work honors the progress that has been made while acknowledging the work that remains. The observance serves as a reflection, motivation and reminder that fostering well-being for a just society requires ongoing compassion, collaboration and accountability.
As the Human Rights Campaign states, “We stand on the shoulders of giants who fought for our right to exist and to thrive.” At UTA, the School of Social Work continues that legacy through education, partnership and service, empowering future social workers to build a more just and caring world for all.