Kentucky Governor Beshear Pardons 43 Who Helped Enslaved People Escape
The pardons recognize people Kentucky says were punished for helping freedom seekers and highlight a neglected chapter in the state’s history.
- On Monday, June 15, 2026, Governor Andy Beshear posthumously pardoned 43 individuals imprisoned for helping enslaved people escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
- Among those pardoned were Elijah Anderson, a free Black man who helped about 1,000 people reach freedom, and Julett Miles, who crossed the Ohio River to rescue her children after learning they would be sold.
- "When we have a chance to correct a historical wrong, we should do it," Beshear said, calling the pardoned individuals "heroes, not criminals" who knowingly defied immoral laws.
- Beshear reaffirmed June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kentucky, establishing an executive branch holiday honoring African American contributions and sacrifices throughout United States history.
- Kentuckians may submit names of others deserving similar recognition by emailing FreedomTrailPardons@ky.gov, as Beshear acknowledged that additional individuals may merit posthumous pardons for their freedom efforts.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Pardons issued for jailed Kentuckians who helped free enslaved Black people
(Gov. Andy Beshear FB)Ahead of Juneteenth, Gov. Andy Beshear has taken executive action to posthumously pardon 43 wrongfully imprisoned Kentuckians who helped enslaved people escape to freedom. "I know I'll never be able to feel the weight of racism, inequality, or injustice, but I'm committed to listening, trying to hear, and taking intentional steps forward, because when we have a chance to correct a historical wrong, we should do it," Beshear…
The Paducah Sun
The Mayfield MessengerBeshear pardons 43 wrongly imprisoned individuals ahead of Juneteenth celebration
FRANKFORT — To mark Juneteenth later this week, Gov. Andy Beshear took executive action on Monday to posthumously pardon 43 wrongfully imprisoned individuals who helped enslaved people gain their freedom.
Beshear pardons 43 jailed for assisting the Underground Railroad - KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News
FRANKFORT, Ky. (KBSI) — Gov. Andy Beshear pardoned 43 people Monday, June 15, 2026 who were imprisoned for helping others escape slavery. Beshear announced the executive order ahead of Juneteenth and proclaimed Friday, June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kentucky. “When we have a chance to correct a historical wrong, we should do it,” Beshear said. “These leaders are heroes — not criminals — and they and their families deserve t…
TRISTATEHOMEPAGE
Governor Beshear posthumously pardons 43 for aiding enslaved people's escape
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) - Governor Andy Beshear took executive action to posthumously pardon 43 people who helped enslaved people escape to freedom. Gov. Beshear also proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kentucky. “When we have a chance to correct a historical wrong, we should do it. That’s why ahead of Juneteenth, I [...]
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 61% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
