Study Abroad Considerations

The following is taken from a handbook, Ready, Set, Go developed by the University of Guelph (Canada) that all outbound students receive. For more information, click here.

Being Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgendered Abroad

Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (glbt) people experience oppression everywhere in the world, though there are different levels of acceptance in different countries. Before you go, it is important to reflect on the culturally based ideas and definitions of sexual identity and consider carefully how your identity as a glbt person may affect your relationships with host nationals, your cultural adjustment and your overall education abroad experience. Part of your pre-departure preparations should include reflecting on the larger context of acting on your glbt identity while abroad. What role as a visitor do you/ should you have in the host culture? Does your right to be glbt in the United States conflict with your host country’s religious or cultural values and traditions? How will you reconcile your human rights with the cultural values of your host society? Are there safety considerations which you should be aware of?

Before leaving, consider the following

• Cultures vary in terms of what is considered appropriate behaviour and how sexual identities are defined and understood. Learn as much as possible before you leave about the culture-specific norms of friendship and dating, styles of behaviour and general attitudes. Behavioural signals (such as eye contact, a smile, touching) may lead us astray in a foreign culture. For example, in several Middle Eastern countries hand-holding among males is a custom of special friendship and respect and does not imply homosexuality. Is it possible for you to contact (through email, etc.) other glbt folks from the host country to ask them specific questions?

• 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?

• Familiarize yourself with the laws of your host country. Homosexuality is illegal in many countries. In some countries, safety may require you to hide your sexual identity. 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? Finding out about the laws of the host country, would you re-consider your options?

• If you are “out” in the United States, reflect on what it means to leave behind a support system of friends and family. Being glbt abroad has been described as some as a second coming out. How will you re-establish your identity overseas?

• For further information, talk with other people who have been in your situation abroad, preferably in your host country.

A sojourn abroad is a time of personal growth and discovery. Many transformations in personal development and self-awareness can occur, prompted by the fact that the restrictions of the home culture have been removed. Returning home is therefore a time of transition that can be difficult.

Before re-entering the United States, consider:

• If you chose to come out while abroad, how will this affect 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 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 a temporary due to the experience abroad, rather than acknowledge a lifelong identity.
  

Adapted from:
Philip Shea
Ryerson University
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M4J 4P8
Tel: 416-979-5000 x6679
Email: vagabond_toronto@hotmail.com