Travel isn't looking too bright for the Sunshine State.
This week, Equality Florida, an LGBTQ rights organization, issued a travel advisory for their home state. This warning illustrates the risks posed to the "health, safety, and freedom of those considering short or long-term travel, or relocation to the state," the organization said in a statement. It's an unusual action following the state's recent passage of laws that are hostile to the LGBTQ community, restrict access to reproductive health care, repeal gun safety laws, foment racial prejudice, and attack public education by banning books and censoring curriculum.
“As an organization that has spent decades working to improve Florida’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive place to live work and visit, it is with great sadness that we must respond to those asking if it is safe to travel to Florida or remain in the state as the laws strip away basic rights and freedoms,” said Nadine Smith, Equality Florida Executive Director. “While losing conferences, and top students who have written off Florida threatens lasting damage to our state, it is most heartbreaking to hear from parents who are selling their homes and moving because school censorship, book bans and health care restrictions have made their home state less safe for their children. We understand everyone must weigh the risks and decide what is best for their safety, but whether you stay away, leave or remain we ask that you join us in countering these relentless attacks. Help reimagine and build a Florida that is truly safe for and open to all, and where freedom is a reality, not a hollow campaign slogan.”
The Florida Immigrant Coalition issued a similar Florida Travel Advisory, flagging the entire state as high risk for potential detainment and family separation. "Reconsider travel to Florida due to unconstitutional laws that abuse civil liberties," reads the warning. Resources are available in English, Spanish and Creole for those who live in the state or must visit the state.
These two warnings follow the March travel advisory by the Florida chapters of the NAACP, who voted unanimously to warn the Black community about the risks of traveling or relocating to Florida.