Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky has designated Juneteenth as a holiday for state executive branch workers and expanded protections in state hiring and employment to ban discrimination based on hairstyles. Despite efforts to make Juneteenth a statewide holiday and outlaw discrimination based on hairstyles failing in the state’s Republican-supermajority legislature, Beshear took matters into his own hands. The signing of these executive orders was seen as a way to reach out to Black Kentuckians and honor the history and contributions of African-Americans to the country.
Juneteenth, commemorating June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they had been freed, will be observed as a holiday in state executive branch offices starting this year. Beshear emphasized that Juneteenth is a celebration of progress but also serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve equality. The governor highlighted the importance of acknowledging past injustices and honoring the strength and contributions of African-Americans to the nation. Legislation to make Juneteenth a Kentucky holiday had previously been introduced but made no progress in the legislature.
In addition to making Juneteenth a state holiday, Beshear’s executive order expanded protections in state hiring and employment by banning discrimination based on traits historically associated with race, including natural hair texture and protective hairstyles like braids, locks, and twists. The governor stressed the need for these protections in a diverse workforce to ensure all Kentuckians from different backgrounds are treated equally. Bills to ban discrimination based on hairstyles at work and school have failed in recent legislative sessions, prompting Beshear to take action through executive orders.
Beshear has made efforts to support the black community in Kentucky, including participating in civil rights events and commemorating the anniversary of a historic rally led by Martin Luther King Jr. The governor has also included Black executives in his administration and advocated for historically black colleges and universities in the state. Removing a statue of Confederate President Jefferson Davis from the state Capitol Rotunda was another significant action taken by Beshear. The governor’s commitment to diversity and inclusion continues to be reflected in his policies and decisions.
The decision to designate Juneteenth as a holiday and ban discrimination based on hairstyles was met with praise from individuals like Melinda Wofford, who thanked the governor for embracing cultural uniqueness and individuality in the state. Wofford, a graduate of the Governor’s Minority Management Trainee Program, emphasized the importance of feeling comfortable and confident in reaching one’s full potential without fear of discrimination. Beshear’s actions were seen as a step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all Kentuckians.
Despite facing challenges in the state legislature, Beshear’s executive orders signified a commitment to promoting equity and diversity in Kentucky. The governor’s efforts to recognize the historical significance of Juneteenth and protect individuals from discriminatory practices in the workplace reflect his dedication to creating a more just society. By taking proactive measures to address issues of discrimination and inequality, Beshear’s leadership demonstrates a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and building a more inclusive future for all residents of Kentucky.
