Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Canada’s government has taken a stronger stance regarding LGBTQ+ safety in the United States. On Tuesday, they updated their travel advisory for the US, specifically targeting travellers who identify as 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and others). The revised advisory warns of potential risks due to recently passed laws in some U.
S. states that could negatively impact LGBTQ+ individuals. While specific states aren’t named, the timing coincides with a significant rise in anti-LGBTQ legislation across the US.
This legislative surge has prompted advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign to declare a “state of emergency” for LGBTQ+ Americans. Canada’s message emphasizes the importance of informed travel decisions. They urge LGBTQ+ travelers to research the laws and social climate of their intended US destinations.
This proactive approach aims to empower travelers to navigate potential challenges related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression – areas where significant legal and social disparities exist between Canada and the US. A spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada reiterated the government’s commitment to traveller safety. They highlighted the importance of accurate and up-to-date travel advisories to enable Canadians to make responsible travel decisions.
Canada’s move has been met with mixed reactions. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups in the US have praised the acknowledgemen.
