Indiana Gov. Mike Braun declared June “nuclear family month” in a proclamation issued Monday — the first day of nationally recognized Pride Month.
The document proclaims the nuclear family, “consisting of one husband, one wife, and any … children, is God’s design for the family structure and has been the foundation of society since the creation of the world.”
Although that definition specifically includes adopted and fostered children aside biological offspring, Braun’s proclamation later cites research that children living with their “married, biological parents” are physically and emotionally better off.
“When families weaken, society must compensate with expensive, inferior approaches,” the document reads. Examples listed include welfare systems, “schools as surrogate parents,” and “police as surrogate discipline.”
Braun emphasized the importance of strong families to the future of Indiana and the nation.
“As a father of four and grandfather of seven, I have seen firsthand the impact that loving, committed families can have across multiple generations,” he said in posts to social media. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, this proclamation recognizes the important role families play in shaping the future of our state and our country.”
He vowed that Indiana will “continue supporting policies that strengthen families and help the next generation thrive.”
Many conservatives celebrated the move on social media. That includes Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, a conservative pastor — who responded with a colorfully illustrated poster version of the document.
“Take back the rainbow!” it exclaims, alongside Braun’s text, signature and seal — plus a depiction of a heterosexual couple with children.
Braun appears to be following Tennessee’s lead. In April, Gov. Bill Lee signed a resolution designating June as Nuclear Family Month. It was originally filed in 2025.
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