KENTUCKY — On this week’s program, we’re talking about Pride month here in the Commonwealth. This is a time that many used to honor the unique cultures, stories and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a time when many organizations, businesses and individuals promote inclusion and respect by sharing their voices. 

When the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly adjourned in mid-April, it did so without the state Senate and House of Representatives passing any of the proposed bills, some called “anti-LGBTQ.”

State Rep. Keturah Herron, D-Louisville, joins this segment. She is the first open LGTBQ+ person elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives and she is running for state senate now, hoping to later this fall, represent part of Jefferson County, in the 38 member chamber. 

“This year we were able to defeat several pieces of legislation. The General Assembly did not pass one anti-LGTBQ piece of legislation, so that is something to celebrate. However, we still have to fight those pieces of legislation. For some people in some areas, they may not have interacted with folks from the LGBTQ community, and so as many people as possible that is able to take away whatever fears or a negative talk about who, who we are. We are people. We are humans. And you know, we are people who are taking care of our kids across this state. We are lawyers. We are teachers. We are police officers, we are firemen and women and we are people. Your neighbors,” explained Herron.

You can watch the full In Focus Kentucky segment in the player above.