Baltimore Pride Shows that Vigilance Pays

The Peter Tatchell Foundation for Human Rights notes that a small stampede of people caused several injuries at Baltimore Pride after an unknown individual released a chemical agent, possibly hairspray, possibly mace, and some fireworks into the crowd.  Many are speculating that the incident could have been a hate crime.  The event, on 15th June, comes after the US state department warned attendees at Pride events throughout the Western World, to be vigilant against terror attacks inspired by hostile states.  Pink News says the official guidance was "“Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists, including Pride celebrations, as there is an increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence” against the LGBTQ+ community.  The warning came just just days after the FBI and Department of Homeland Security released a public alert warning that foreign terrorist organisations and their supporters could seek to “exploit increased gatherings associated with the upcoming June 2024 Pride Month” in the US.