Anti-LGBTQ Hate and Legislation Compels This Move From Canada
By Dolores Quintana
Canada has issued a travel advisory, urging LGBTQ+ travelers planning trips to the United States to be cautious and informed about the potential impact of recently passed laws in some U.S. states. This advisory comes in response to a significant increase in anti-LGBTQ+ demonstrations and legal efforts to restrict LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.
The travel advisory, issued by the Canadian government, specifically addresses individuals who identify as two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or intersex, collectively known as 2SLGBTQI+. It highlights that “some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons” and advises travelers to “check relevant state and local laws” before their visit.
While the advisory does not specify the states in question, it underscores the importance of being informed about potential risks.
Responding to the advisory, the U.S. State Department emphasized the United States’ commitment to promoting tolerance, inclusion, justice, and dignity for the LGBTQ+ community. The U.S. government expressed its readiness to collaborate with like-minded partners worldwide to advance LGBTQ+ rights.
Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, explained that the advisory was updated based on expert assessments of potential dangers to specific groups of Canadians. She emphasized the government’s dedication to prioritizing the safety and interests of all Canadians, regardless of their identity or orientation.
Although the travel advisory has been issued, the overall risk profile for the United States remains at “green,” indicating that normal security precautions are recommended. The United States remains a top travel destination for Canadians, with millions of trips taken each year. Approximately 4% of the Canadian population aged 15 years and older identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or part of another sexual orientation, according to official data released last year.
