State Department issues worldwide Pride Month travel alert due to potential terrorist attacks

The U.S. State Department issued a “worldwide caution alert” for LGBTQ+ travelers and allies for Pride Month due to potential terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against U.S. citizens.

While the alert urged travelers to “stay alert in locations frequented by tourists, including Pride celebrations and venues frequented by LGBTQI+ persons,” it did not specifically advise against travel to certain areas.

“The Department of State is aware of the increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events and advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” according to the alert notice.

This travel advisory differs from the State Department’s usual travel advisories that are on a scale of Level 1 (“Exercise Normal Precautions”) to Level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) and are given to specific countries.

The State Department advises tourists to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which sends travelers alerts if a dangerous situation occurs at their destination.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment program also connects travelers with the local U.S. embassy in emergency situations.

The State Department also has a web page designed specifically for LGBTQ+ travelers, including tidbits on how to stay safe and where to locate a U.S. Embassy while abroad.

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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.