Amid the shocking rise in racial tensions and national tension over police brutality and retaliation this week, Bahamain officials are urging those traveling to the U.S. to take special precautions.

Monday is the country’s independence day and many citizens are expected to travel to the U.S. to vacation, but the travel advisory released by officials this week offers some ominous advice to would-be happy vacationers.

The nation, which is majority black, urged young men in particular to “not be confrontational and cooperate.”

“We wish to advise all Bahamians traveling to the US but especially to the affected cities to exercise appropriate caution generally. In particular young males are asked to exercise extreme caution in affected cities in their interactions with the police. Do not be confrontational and cooperate.”

It’s a sad day in America when a warning like this is not only appropriate but necessary. May we work toward solutions to these horrific problems we are facing while the world watches on in fear.

Sydney Robinson is a political writer for the Ring of Fire Network. She has also appeared in political news videos for Ring of Fire. Sydney has a degree in English Literature from the University of West Florida, and has an active interest in politics, social justice, and environmental issues. She would love to hear from you on Twitter @SydneyMkay or via email at srobinson@ringoffireradio.com