 |
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
UNLV appreciates that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered students considering studying abroad may want information or advice regarding their sexuality in relation to living abroad. Gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered students may want to consider the receptivity of a potential host country to LGBT students. As a prospective study abroad student you may also want to consider whether certain programs or universities will meet your needs or properly address your concerns. The following resources may be especially useful in the information gathering process. Students are also welcome to discuss their concerns with the UNLV International Programs staff. We are located in CBC B325.
Below are some tips to help you prepare for your time abroad and your transition home when you return. Preparing for what to expect can make the difference between a wonderful experience and unpleasant or dangerous one. Before you go, it is important to be aware of culturally based definitions and ideas of sexual identity. Your identity as a GLBT person may effect your relationship with people in the country you intend to visit, your cultural adjustment and your overall study abroad experience.
Part of your preparations to go abroad should include considering the larger context of acting on your GLBT identity while abroad.
• Cultures vary in terms of what is considered appropriate behavior. Sexual identities may be defined much differently than in the U.S. Learn as much as possible before you leave about the culture-specific norms of friendship and dating, sexual codes, styles of behavior and general attitudes. Does your GLBT identity conflict with your host country's religious or cultural values? If so, how will you reconcile your human rights with the cultural values of the host country? Behavioral signals (such as eye contact, a smile, touching, and physical proximity) may mean very different things in a foreign culture. For example, in some Middle Eastern countries hand-holding among males is an accepted way of demonstrating friendship and respect and does not necessarily imply homosexuality. Physical harassment, assault, and rape are issues that both women and men have to consider when interacting across cultures because of the chance of misinterpretations of behavior. Furthermore, the legal system in the country may not offer protection for the victim when issues of sexual orientation or other behavior is involved. Familiarize yourself with the laws of your host country. In some countries, where sexual orientation can be a basis for persecution under the law, you may need to hide your sexual identity for your own safety. Inform yourself about country-specific laws on age of consent, traveling with print or other materials on sexual orientation, etc. If necessary, are you willing to hide your sexual orientation? If the laws of the foreign country are not amiable to you, would you need to reconsider your options?Homestays/Housing
• Before you leave the US, we encourage you to learn as much as possible about the culture-specific norms of friendship and dating for relationships between people of any sexual orientation. Inform yourself of important safe sex practices. See the health section of the UNLV Study Abroad Handbook for further information.
• Obtain country specific information on the support systems (meeting places, organizations, etc.) available in your host country. Are these appropriate for you? Do you visit similar places in your home community? If you are unable to locate or identify organized support systems are will you be able to create your own support system?
• If you are out in the U.S., reflect on what it means to leave behind a support system of friends and family. Being GLBT abroad has been described by some as a second coming out. How will you re-establish your identity overseas.
• If you choose to come out while abroad, how will this effect your return to friends and family? Will you be able to re-integrate these relationships upon your return or will you need to find a different supportive community?
• Be aware before you come back home of the ways in which you may have changed both independent of and as a result of your coming out.
• Consider the implications of coming out when back home. Often family and friends may want to dismiss your sexual orientation as temporary due to the experience abroad, rather than acknowledge a lifelong identity.
UNLV is not an agent for any of the sites listed below. This information is provided for your information only. UNLV does not recomment nor guarantee the quality of any programs not specifically sponsored by the UNLV Office of International Programs. The UNLV Office of International Programs recommends that you research any country that you plan to visit or any program in which you consider participating.
Damron publishes five annual printed guidebooks for lesbian and gay travelers.
International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission
International Lesbian & Gay Association
NAFSA: Association of International Educators Rainbow Special Interest Group (SIG) The Lesbigay Special Interest Group
The Gay & Lesbian Arab Society
Gayguide.net
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgendered U.S. Peace Corps Alumni
Africa Resources
Asia Resources
Australia Bisexual Network
Italy Resources
GayNet Japan
If you have a resource you would like to share, please email international.programs@unlv.edu.
To request more information on UNLV sponsored study abroad programs, click here.