LGBTQ+ Community and Allies Respond to Indiana’s ‘Nuclear Family Month’

Cory Soller, co-chair of Michigan City Pride, remains undeterred by statements from Indiana’s leaders during Pride Month. He views the situation as inconsequential to Pride celebrations. A tile cross bearing transgender pride flag colors was displayed near the altar at the Metropolitan Community Church in Portage for Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, 2025.

“You can call it by any other name, but to the people who celebrate Pride month, it does not matter,” Soller stated. “We are building bridges and inviting everyone, contrasting with what the governor has done which seems more like building walls.”

On a Monday, Governor Mike Braun declared June as “nuclear family month” in Indiana. This announcement has been perceived by LGBTQ+ activists and leaders statewide as an act of opposition. Some view it as a distraction from broader state issues, like the rising cost of living.

Governor Braun emphasized the significance of loving, committed families through a Twitter/X post, sharing a photo of the proclamation. His statement acknowledged families’ importance in shaping Indiana’s and the nation’s future.

Lt. Governor Micah Beckwith supported Braun’s proclamation by stating on social media: “Nuclear Families are less likely to be in poor health, live in poverty, become abuse victims, and more likely to succeed academically.” He also posted a religious graphic with the words, “Take back the rainbow!”

In a follow-up news conference, Braun clarified that his proclamation was not intended to target any specific groups, focusing instead on the importance of the nuclear family. Census data reveals that only about 18% of families in Indiana fit the nuclear family model.

Despite Braun’s stance, Soller believes the proclamation negatively affects more than 80% of Hoosiers, including LGBTQ+ communities, single parents, foster families, and grandparents raising children. Michigan City Pride Fest plans to remain inclusive, inviting all family types to participate in the festivities.

Karen Tallian, Chairwoman of the Indiana Democratic Party, questioned Braun’s motivations for issuing the proclamation during Pride Month. She argued it diverts attention from pressing issues like poverty and public education.

Leah Peksenak, president of Northwest Indiana Pridefest, suggested that the timing of the proclamation was unsurprising considering political trends. She remarked that dominant cultural celebrations, such as “straight pride month,” are unnecessary as they are acknowledged daily.

According to LGBTQ+ rights advocates, Pride Month represents joy, resistance, and community celebration, despite challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Events like Northwest Indiana Pridefest emphasize inclusiveness.

Research indicates that gay couples possess the lowest divorce rates nationwide, challenging traditional narratives around nuclear families. Peksenak plans to collaborate with interfaith groups to create a counter-proclamation addressing marginalizing statements.

The broader goal is to highlight community support and acceptance, letting individuals know they are valued and safe. Encouraging better leadership, local advocates emphasize that public policy should reflect reality rather than perpetuate division.

Organizations like LGBTQ+ Outreach of Porter County released statements denouncing Braun’s decision, asserting that diverse families strengthen communities without risking unnecessary divide.

Kim Eldridge, president of Indivisible NWI, reiterated concerns over the implications of Braun’s proclamation, although she expressed faith that most Indiana residents don’t share the divisive views of some leaders.