Indiana Pride Month Amid Political Proclamation

Cory Soller, co-chair of Michigan City Pride, remains undeterred by any statements from Indiana’s leaders during Pride month. Despite comments by officials, Soller continues to celebrate inclusivity. A cross featuring transgender pride colors was present during a ceremony at Metropolitan Community Church, Portage, marking Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, 2025.

“You can call it by any other name, but to those who celebrate Pride month, it does not matter,” said Soller. “We’re building bridges. We’re inviting, unlike the governor who is building up walls.”

Governor Mike Braun declared June as “nuclear family month” in Indiana. LGBTQ+ activists view this as an attack or a distraction from statewide issues like the rising cost of living. Braun, a father and grandfather, shared on Twitter/X that this proclamation highlights the importance of families in shaping the state’s future. Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith also emphasized the strength of nuclear families on social media.

In response, Soller highlighted the diversity in Indiana’s families, stating that Braun’s proclamation disenfranchises over 80% of residents, including single-parent, foster, and LGBTQ+ families.

Michigan City Pride Fest, welcoming all family types, is set to occur from 1 to 8 p.m. on June 13 at the Guy Foreman Amphitheatre.

Indiana Democratic Party Chairwoman Karen Tallian questioned Braun’s motives, suggesting the proclamation diverts attention from real issues like poverty and education. She refers to the proclamation as a response to the “culture war” started by former President Trump.

Leah Peksenak, president of Northwest Indiana Pridefest, found Braun’s declaration unsurprising. She pointed out that such proclamations often coincide with conservative approaches to Pride month. She emphasized that dominant culture celebrations, unlike Pride month, aren’t necessary as they don’t face rights withdrawal challenges.

Northwest Indiana Pridefest is scheduled for June 6 and 7 at Sunset Hill Farm County Park, Valparaiso. Peksenak, addressing gay men’s low divorce rates, noted that two-parent households are beneficial for children, criticizing straight couples’ higher divorce incidences.

Zoe O’Haillen-Berne of Indiana Youth Group expressed concerns over the impact of Braun’s proclamation on LGBTQ+ youth and their families. She termed the proclamation as another erasure attempt, complicating Pride month celebrations.

LGBTQ+ Outreach of Porter County’s board issued a statement critiquing the timing of Braun’s proclamation during Pride month, which undermines the state’s diverse family structures and suggests some families are less legitimate.

Research shows children thrive in loving, stable environments regardless of parental gender or orientation.

The statement emphasizes public policy and leadership should celebrate diversity, not divide communities. Indiana’s diverse family configurations contribute to community strength.

Kim Eldridge, president of Indivisible NWI, views Braun’s proclamation as a sign of a broader statement against LGBTQ+ and women’s rights. Yet, she believes most Indiana residents reject such divisive leadership.