Resources for LGBTQ Students Abroad

LGBTQ Students Abroad

Whether you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or queer or questioning aspects of your identity, it is always best to learn more about the social climate, laws, and norms for personal interactions in other cultures.  Some societies abroad are more liberal than the U.S. on these matters and some less.  It is always best to inform yourself of these key issues within the countries you are considering for your study-abroad experience.  Below are links to resources by organizations who have complied information on LGBT issues throughout the world specific to international education, travel, and campus life.

The CCNY Office of Study Abroad & International Programs is a SAFE and INCLUSIVE space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students and their allies.  Never hesitate to contact an advisor in the office for more information or to share your input or concerns.

LGBT Student Guide for Education Abroad (pdf)

Guide by Kristen Shalosky

NAFSA Readings in Culture and Sexuality (pdf)

An annotated bibliography by Kevin Morrison

NAFSA Rainbow Page for U.S. Students Abroad

LGBT people experience different levels of acceptance throughout the world. 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 LGBT 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 LGBT identity while abroad. What role as a visitor do you/ should you have in the host culture? Does your right to be LGBT in the U.S. 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?

Michigan State - Study Abroad for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered (GLBT) Students

Tips and resources to help you prepare for your time abroad and your transition back into American life when you return. Preparing for what to expect in a particular country can make the difference between a wonderful experience abroad and an unpleasant one.

LIGA: INTERNATIONAL LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANS AND INTERSEX ASSOCIATION

ILGA's website is particularly helpful when researching laws around the world affecting the LGBTQ community.  ILGA’s aim is to work for the equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people and their liberation from all forms of discrimination. We seek to achieve this aim through the world-wide cooperation and mutual support of our members.

LGBTQ Alliance of City College

An informal social network of friends and colleagues at CCNY. It is an organization for closeted, out queer, and LGBTQ identified students (as well as those who are unsure about their sexuality) and their queer-friendly allies.