Canada issues travel advisory for LGBTQ Canadians traveling to US
by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Canada on Tuesday updated its travel advisory for Canadians visiting the United States by adding a section advising LGBTQ travelers that some American states have implemented laws that may present them with “barriers” and “risks,” the Canada Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) reports.
In its comprehensive advisory on travel to the US, which includes information on topics ranging from drug laws to pet precautions, Global Affairs Canada has added a paragraph titled “2SLGBTQI+ travelers” to the section on “Laws and Culture.”
“Some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check relevant state and local laws,” the new advisory reads. “Foreign laws and customs related to sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) can be very different from those in Canada. As a result, you could face certain barriers and risks when you travel outside Canada. Research and prepare for your trip in advance to help your travels go smoothly,” the advisory states.
The advisory does not mention any particular law, nor does it advise travelers to stay away from any particular state, CBC notes.
In a media statement about why the new advisory has been given, a Global Affairs Department spokesperson said: “Since the beginning of 2023, certain states in the U.S. have passed laws banning drag shows and restricting the transgender community from access to gender-affirming care and from participation in sporting events. The information is provided to enable travelers to make their own informed decisions regarding destinations.”