State Department warns of possible terrorist attacks targeting the LGBTQI+ community

The Department of State (DOS) issued a global alert about possible terrorist attacks that could be perpetuated against events and members of the LGBTQI+ community.

Two weeks before Pride Month begins, on June 1, through a statement, DOS urges citizens to remain alert in places they usually congregate or visit inside and outside the country to participate in some events “including Pride celebrations and places frequented by LGBTQI+ people.”

“Due to the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the State Department advises U.S. citizens abroad to use increased caution. The Department of State is aware of the increased potential for violence inspired by foreign terrorist organizations against LGBTQI+ people and events. and advises U.S. citizens abroad to exercise greater caution,” the letter states.

The DOS alert adds to other warnings previously issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), where it mentions that certain foreign terrorist organizations and their supporters could carry out demonstrations of hate and violence directed at LGBTQ+ events and places, most likely during Pride Month, as this represents a showcase for them to scare the world.

Although, in the United States, respect for the rights of the LGBTQI+ community is a priority for the government, Prior to last year’s Pride Month celebrations, the Human Rights Campaign declared a state of national emergency for LGBTQ+ Americans, something never seen before in four decades.

It should be noted that DOS typically advises U.S. citizens to register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), to receive security updates and facilitate contact in case of emergency.

So far, none of the main organizations in which members of the LGBTQ+ in the United States are grouped have made known their position on the possible risk in which they find themselves from the start of next month.

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