The Equality Forum is sponsoring GLBT History Month this October.

The annual project got its start back in the 1990's when educators and community leaders called for a month dedicated to the celebration and teaching of GLBT history. The month of October was selected because schools are in session and existing GLBT events, such as Coming Out Day (October 11th), happen in October.

Modeled on Black History Month and Women’s History Month, the project's goal is to "teach GLBT history, to provide inspiring role models, and to highlight the GLBT community’s important worldwide contributions."

As part of the project they are spotlighting 31 prominent gay cultural/historical figures... one for each day of the month. The list runs the gamut, including the likes of Cary Grant and Florence Nightingale. I've a feeling some of these picks are going to be controversial. But perhaps that is the point. They are almost certain to generate debate, and I'm curious what AfterElton.com readers think.

The full list of GLBT History Month icons appears after the break...