Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear officially recognized June 2026 as Pride Month in the Commonwealth, marking a continued commitment to fighting discrimination and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ Kentuckians. Governor Beshear, the first sitting Governor in Kentucky’s history to acknowledge June as Pride Month, has consistently taken steps to support the community.
"I believe all children are children of God – no exceptions, no asterisks," said Gov. Beshear. He added, "Our LGBTQ+ community deserves to have their rights protected, and I will always stand firm on my values of compassion, empathy and doing what’s right to protect them." His administration first proclaimed June as Pride Month in 2021 and he has participated in every Statewide Fairness Rally since taking office.
Further demonstrating his commitment, Gov. Beshear signed an executive order in 2024 banning conversion therapy on minors, citing its lack of medical basis and potential for harm. He also vetoed legislation in 2023 and 2025 that aimed to restrict gender-affirming healthcare and bathroom access, and to overturn his conversion therapy ban, though these vetoes were overridden by the General Assembly.
Despite legislative overrides, these efforts have garnered national attention. Out Leadership recognized Kentucky in 2025 for the most significant improvement nationwide in its LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index, attributing this to sustained gubernatorial leadership. In 2026, Gov. Beshear received the National Allyship Award from the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, reinforcing his stance that "Kentucky – and all of America – cannot possibly reach its full potential unless our people feel supported to be themselves."