UMass Lowell Gender, Migration Expert Available for Interviews
UMass Lowell sociologist Cheryl Llewellyn is available as a source for reporters on this story.
08/31/2023
Media contacts: Emily Gowdey-Backus or Nancy Cicco.
Wednesday saw Canada, a longstanding U.S. ally, issue a travel warning for LGBTQ+ individuals visiting the United States. Tourists visiting certain areas were cautioned in the wake of recent hate crimes, legislation and countless examples of discrimination.
“Historically, we have seen these types of travel advisories coming from the U.S. government,” said Associate Professor Cheryl Llewellyn, an expert in gender, sexuality and migration. “Canada’s newest advisory makes a very targeted comment about homophobia in the United States and exposes the hypocrisy of claims that the U.S. is a progressive place for trans and queer rights.”
She points to bans on drag performances, “Don’t Say Gay” bills, and restrictions on necessary and life-affirming care for transgender individuals as rationale for Canada’s action.
Chair of the UMass Lowell sociology department, Llewellyn studies individuals seeking asylum in the United States on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. A main theme in her analyses is an imperception of the U.S. as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals. She has found, while many asylees say they feel safer in the U.S., they do not necessarily feel welcome, nor do they perceive themselves as completely protected from violence.
To arrange an interview with Llewellyn, contact Emily Gowdey-Backus or Nancy Cicco.