Florida Governor DeSantis Declares June Faith and Family Month, Drawing Criticism
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis proclaimed June 2026 as "Faith and Family Month," encouraging faith-based organizations to host events aligned with what he called the "Biblical family unit." The announcement drew criticism because it coincides with Pride Month and the 10th anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a proclamation in June 2026 declaring the month "Faith and Family Month" across the state. The proclamation calls on faith-based organizations and community partners to host events that reflect what it describes as the values of the "Biblical family unit."
The announcement came at the start of June, which is also recognized nationally as Pride Month. Critics noted the timing was deliberate, pointing out that June 12 marks the 10th anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, which killed 49 people, most of them LGBTQ+ Latinos.
Advocacy groups in Florida called the proclamation divisive. Several organizations said it sent a harmful message to LGBTQ+ residents and their families.
Supporters of the governor said the proclamation reflects the values of many Florida families and that faith communities have a right to celebrate their beliefs. Conservative Christian groups praised the move.
DeSantis has made faith-based policy a consistent part of his agenda. His administration has previously backed legislation on school prayer, parental rights in education, and restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors.
The proclamation does not carry the force of law but signals the governor's priorities and gives official state backing to faith-based events held during the month.
