Opinion: Be Proud in Indiana

Did You Know?

• LGBT+ same-sex marriage was legalized on October 6, 2014.
• Effective July 1, 2024, Indiana slipped a ban for same-sex marriage into legislation (Section 46, 31-11-1-1):
  "Only a female may marry a male. Only a male may marry a female. A marriage between persons of the same biological sex is void in Indiana, even if the marriage is lawful where it was solemnized."
• 62% of Hoosiers support same-sex marriage.
• According to the 2020 Census:
  • 10,953 married same-sex couples live in Indiana.
  • 9,232 unmarried same-sex couples live in Indiana.

At the beginning of the month, our governor announced that June would be recognized as "Nuclear Family Month" with "nuclear" meaning father, mother, and children. Because June has traditionally been known as Pride Month for the LGBTQIA+ community, many viewed this announcement as a direct affront to those celebrating Pride. In response, community members, allies, supporters, churches, and businesses across Indiana have spoken out against this administration's message.

Now more than ever, it is important that we unite and stand with our LGBTQIA+ brothers and sisters by celebrating their lives, their history, and their contributions to our communities.

Supporting Pride events sends a clear message to the Republican administration that Indiana is a diverse state and that we are stronger together.

And beyond the importance of visibility and solidarity, Pride celebrations are simply a lot of fun. They're a terrific way to spend a summer weekend with friends, family, and new acquaintances.

Fun... what a concept! Something Republicans have forgotten how to do!

Check out the many local and statewide Pride celebrations taking place throughout June and ENJOY PRIDE!