The State Department issues a travel safety alert ahead of Pride Month

The federal government is urging caution and vigilance around the world at popular tourist destinations in view of potential threats of violence against LGBTQI+ travelers.

The US State Department issued a security alert on Friday warning of the possibility of terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against American citizens. In particular, the State Department warns that Pride celebrations and venues attended by LGBTQI+ people may be at risk.

“The State Department is aware of the increased potential for violence inspired by foreign terrorist organizations against LGBTQI+ people and events,” the State Department said in the alert shared on its social media platforms.

The warning comes just a week before the traditional start of the summer travel season and just before the start of widespread Pride Month celebrations in June.

It also comes just a week after the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a joint public notice that also warned of the possibility of foreign terrorist organizations targeting Pride events and venues in June.

Should travelers be worried?

Although serious concerns were raised in Friday’s warning, it is Is It is important to note that the State Department did not provide details Specific Threats or circumstances that triggered this notice.

At the same time, the department told TPG it was aware of “long-standing messages from foreign terrorist organizations that promote attacks against LGBTQI+ people,” including Pride celebrations.

The agency has an ongoing and extensive range of travel advice covering essentially the entire world. And safety alerts and reminders are often issued ahead of key travel seasons and during situations of emerging unrest.

For example, before each of the last two spring travel seasons, the Department reminded travelers traveling to Mexico of common-sense security measures to avoid becoming a potential crime victim.

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A global security alert was also issued in October regarding violence in Israel and Gaza.

In addition, the department maintains travel alerts for every country around the world, assessing potential risk levels based on factors such as the possibility of kidnapping, crime, unlawful detention and, for some regions of the world, specific threats to LGBTQI+ travelers.

What’s notable is that Friday’s warning for this June appears to cover travel around the world.

The State Department has a guide full of advice and considerations for LGBTQI+ travelers traveling abroad.

Here’s some additional advice for your summer 2024 travel, including travel occurring during Pride Month.

Stay alert

The State Department urges travelers visiting popular tourist locations, including Pride celebrations, to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

This is always a good practice when traveling or going to busy areas for any reason.

Enroll in the “STEP” program

The agency also recommends travelers enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. STEP allows travelers to receive information and notifications from the nearest consulate, regardless of their location. It’s an extremely helpful tool if you experience an emergency abroad – it can also help easily locate travelers if necessary. Find out more in our guide here.

Travel in groups

Just like at home, traveling with a buddy or group whenever possible can be safer than traveling alone.

Research your country

As noted above, the State Department issues travel advisories for individual countries and communicates specific safety concerns for each destination.

Warnings in some countries highlight the potential for violence against LGBTQI+ travelers.

You can search for your destination using this link.

Plan ahead

If you’re traveling to a busy event in a crowded metropolitan area, it’s usually a good idea to have a primary plan for getting back to your hotel or rental property – and a backup plan too. For example, Uber or Lyft might be your “Plan A” – but what would be your backup plan if your phone breaks or cell service stops working?

Even though smartphones have made it easier to get local walking directions, it’s a good idea to study the map of your destination so you have at least a general idea of ​​the geography.

Visit a highly tested hotel

When booking a hotel, do your homework to make sure it suits your trip – both in terms of amenities and safety. TPG has an extensive library of hotel reviews and travel guides for hotels around the world, with first-hand reviews and photos of what a particular hotel is like – including location and safety factors.

Share your itinerary with someone at home

As always when traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to share your travel plan – and any subsequent deviations from it – with a trusted friend or family member back home. This includes the addresses of hotels or rental properties where you are staying, flight numbers, and a scan of your passport information page.

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