THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | JUNE 2024 49 AFSA on Havana Syndrome A provision in the recent congressional 2024 appropriations bill prevents the flying of Pride flags at U.S. embassies and missions around the world. This decision was made as part of a political compromise aimed at preventing a government shutdown. While we recognize the practicalities of current budget politics, we are concerned with the message this action sends to our LGBTQ+ members and LGBTQ+ communities around the world. AFSA has raised the issue of the flag ban with leaders at the Department of State and USAID and will continue to do so across all our member foreign affairs agencies. While this provision is now law and must be implemented, AFSA is urging the department to clarify the rules with the Foreign Service community, including whether flying of Pride flags at U.S. government–provided housing abroad is also prohibited. AFSA remains steadfast in our core values of respect for difference and support for diversity and inclusion. We will continue to advocate for the rights and protection of our members from the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. n On April 9, shortly after “60 Minutes” aired a report presenting compelling new information on anomalous health incidents (AHIs), commonly known as Havana syndrome, AFSA issued a public message urging the State Department to undertake an investigation of the new information. AFSA also called on the department to share information concerning posts where AHIs have occurred, so that potential bidders are aware, and to provide an update about what protective measures are being undertaken to help employees feel safe. AFSA continues to press for inclusion of members who became ill before Jan. 1, 2016, who are currently considered ineligible for benefits under the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA) Act of 2021. AFSA also continues to support relief efforts for cases in which Havana Act benefit applications were denied on “other incident” grounds, and upon appeal, were again denied by the department. If you have any questions about AFSA policy regarding AHIs, please do not hesitate to contact us at member@afsa.org. n AFSA Urges Clarity on Flag Restrictions AFSA NEWS
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