The Canadian government released its latest travel advice and a notable update is a caution to queer and transgender Canadians planning to travel to the United States.
According to the updated advisory issued Aug. 29 and posted in full on travel.gc.ca, travelers were issued the caution that “some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check relevant state and local laws.” The advisory then guides people to a page with advice for all LGBTQ+ travelers who may be planning visits to places outside of Canada.
This advisory comes on the heels of a particularly challenging few years for LGBTQ+ Americans who are dealing with increasing violent attacks and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The American Civil Liberties Union is currently tracking 495 anti-LGBTQ+ bills, the most the United States has even seen.
While Canada has been an early supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, becoming the third country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003, the country has seen its own rise in anti-LGBTQ+ extremism. In 2021, reported hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community increased 64% from numbers in 2019. Protests against drag story hours and LGBTQ+ inclusive classroom teaching have made the news in 2023.
News is Out will update this article when and if any new information about the advisory becomes available.