According to Gayety, The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has updated its intelligence policy, removing restrictions that previously prohibited staff from gathering intelligence on individuals or groups based solely on their LGBTQ+ status.
The revision has raised concerns, particularly among LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue that this change may allow for targeted surveillance based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
DHS is now headed by Kristi Noem, and vocal opponent of LGBTQ rights. The new policy by the DHS is seen by many as part of a broader trend of reducing protections for LGBTQ+ individuals under the Trump administration and its appointees. Critics fear that this will lead to further surveillance and harassment of LGBTQ+ people, who already face significant challenges in many parts of the U.S.
