The State Department issues a travel warning for LGBTQ people and events abroad

The U.S. State Department issued a “Global Caution” alert on Friday, warning U.S. citizens abroad to exercise increased caution due to “the increased potential for violence against LGBTQI+ people and events inspired by foreign terrorist organizations.”

According to a government official familiar with the matter, the warning is related to the FBI and Department of Homeland Security’s recent announcement that foreign terrorist organizations may seek to exploit “LGBTQIA+-related events and venues,” including events during Pride Month 2024 begins in June.

The warning comes on the same day the State Department marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia.

Last year’s Pride month was also marked by security concerns after the Department of Homeland Security issued a report warning that domestic violence extremists and people who commit hate crimes have increasingly threatened violence against the LGBTQIA+ community in recent years.

LGBTQ advocacy groups have declared a “state of emergency” in the US following record-breaking waves of anti-LGBTQ legislation and increasing reports of hate incidents.

The State Department’s warning also advises Americans traveling to exercise increased caution because of the risk of broader terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions “against U.S. citizens and interests.”