International Concerns

Sunday Assembly Atlanta’s (SAA) organizers recognize the extremely fraught circumstances in the United States of America today. We know that our international friends are asking what travel to the US means both practically and symbolically, and some are debating whether to come at all.

It's complicated; we get that. Here's how we think coming to the conference can be a powerful expression of your values during a time in the US where many of us find our values violated daily. We’ll also share our current understanding of what travel, safety, and your time in Atlanta, Georgia will be like.

Your Trip: Your Intention

Attending this conference can be meaningfully different than a casual vacation to Disney World; it can be a trip where you define the intention.

Repudiate our administration's values by experiencing presenters and attendees in the US’s Deep South enduring and fighting for what is right, or absorb Atlanta’s civil rights history through fantastic museums and tours.

Find solidarity and joy in a tumultuous time by connecting with new and old friends alike in our rare moments where we connect and rejuvenate as a movement. As Atlanta’s very own Tricia Hersey says, “Rest is Resistance”. Enjoy our creative and wonderful LGBTQ+ celebratory venue. 

We chose our theme of “Welcome Y’all!” for reasons beyond the Southern twang: it’s both inviting and imploring us to take action towards creating safe environments in a time where they are being forced to recede. We can both enjoy that positive space while plotting to sustain and grow more of it across our network.

Where Your Money Goes

How we spend can also be an expression of values. SAA has put careful consideration into how your time with us can not only be affordable but also supporting positive causes:

• As in previous conferences, we will be coordinating free lodging for as many travelers as possible based on available beds in the SAA community.

• Our entertainment and dining recommendations will highlight the best of our diverse, amazing home.

• The total price of all international tickets sold will be matched by anonymous donors and donated to a charity supporting those deeply hurting today.

Traveling to the US

International travelers may have concerns about their ability to enter the US successfully and with their privacy intact.

• The New York Times in December 2025 says device searches are up but only represent 0.01% of all travelers entering or exiting the US. (Given historical trends with “random” searches, we expect people of color to be more likely to be targeted within that small percentage.)

  • This article offers tips to avoid or minimize the scope of the search by using strong passwords, and then putting the device in airplane mode plus turning it off before reaching customs.

  • The article also explores personal decision-making on whether to unlock your phone or device for search if directed to.

• USA Today in November 2025 describes reasons travelers can be denied entry, including outright bans for several nations where Sunday Assembly is not present.

Our perspective: while the US administration’s rhetoric and actions are hostile and jingoistic, entering the US for travel has not dramatically changed for the vast majority of Sunday Assemblers.

Safety

Conference goers, travelers and locals alike, may have concerns about "immigration enforcement" actions that have taken place throughout the country and with extreme tactics in particular cities that create unsafe environments.

• Axios Atlanta reported in February 2026 that Atlanta's mayor states he will inform businesses and citizens as soon as possible upon learning of ICE/CBP operations occurring in our city.

  • Governors and mayors at this time have little control over these operations, however.

• The last Atlanta match of the Men's World Cup will take place the day before the conference; this global event is the primary concern for increased ICE/CBP presence.

Our perspective: Atlanta has thus far not been subjected to operations on the scale of Minneapolis, Los Angeles, or Portland. We do not believe it likely that agents will disrupt the conference experience, but we will develop alternatives for outside conference activities if any venue does not feel safe.

Healthcare Accessibility

Potential travelers who can become pregnant have also requested information on the availability of reproductive healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia.

• The Center for Reproductive Rights as of February 2026 specifies that Georgia allows abortion up to 6 weeks

• Medical and surgical options are available in Atlanta, for example, from Summit Medical Center. There may be a 24-hour waiting period.

• SAA organizers will support you if these services become required; let us know if you are or could be pregnant during your time with us.

Our perspective: resources are available to find the care you need in our city or, in extreme circumstances, in other states, and we'll help you get it.

Summary

Please reach out to us with concerns not addressed here. We respect any decision our loved and cherished community members make, and we look forward to seeing you, sooner or later.

Last updated: 6 Feb 2026