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LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Duke Immerse  believes that its programs should be accessible to everyone, and is committed to nurturing a richly diverse student cohort and study away community where all members feel empowered, heard, respected and supported. 

How sexual identities are defined and understood varies between cultures, including the interpretation of what is considered appropriate behavior. This applies to acquaintances as well as to platonic and intimate relationships. If you are LGBTQIA+, it is important to understand that openly living your sexual orientation and/or gender identity abroad might be different from what you are accustomed to at home. Some locations and cultures are open to LGBTQIA+ individuals, while others are less accepting or even hostile. Attitudes toward sexual orientation can also vary significantly within regions of the same country, or according to different social contexts. Additionally, it will help you to be aware of individual idiosyncrasies and beliefs in your host community.  Your experience may also vary based on other aspects of your identity, and how they intersect with your sexuality and gender identity. Know that you are not alone on your program, and especially not if you find yourself feeling isolated due to your sexuality or gender expression. You have the support of Duke and Immerse. 

For more information, review the resources listed below, and/or reach out immerse@duke.edu with specific questions or concerns. 

Expression of Gender, Sexual Orientation, Relationships, and Safety

A new location may appear to provide a safe haven for exploring sexual and gender identities free from the judgments of friends and family. However, it’s important to note that support for LGBTQIA+ rights can vary widely based on your field experience location. Some locations may be more supportive of LGBTQIA+ rights than your home community is, while others stipulate punishments for same-sex sexual behavior and behaviors that transgress local gender norms. A new and potentially challenging environment does not necessarily mean you will have a negative experience abroad as long as you properly prepare yourself to navigate the local culture. 

Before you leave, research the status of LGBTQIA+ rights in the location that will be hosting you, as well as others that you will be visiting. It is important to be aware of any applicable laws pertaining to the expression of sexual orientation/gender identity, as well as the general attitudes of the local population toward LGBTQIA+ individuals. Learn as much as possible about the culture-specific norms associated with friendships, dating, and gender. Be aware that behavioral signals that mean one thing in your home culture might mean something completely different in the host culture. 

While studying away, you will most likely encounter different ideologies, and you may need to adapt to different customs. This can be difficult. Some students have found it necessary to hide their sexual orientation and/or gender identity for safety reasons, while others find safe ways to express them openly. Become informed so you can have a safe and rewarding experience on your program. 

If you experience discrimination/bias while on a study away program, this is not something that you have to bear alone. Please consider the following action steps: 

Questions to Consider

To prepare for your study away experience, consider the following list of questions. If you need help finding answers to these questions, email us at immerse@duke.edu.  

      • What are the laws regarding homosexuality in the host location? 
      • Is it safe for me to be out in my host location? 
      • Should I come out to my host family and peers on my program? 
      • Is there flexibility in the accommodations, if I need a single room and private bath? 
      • What LGBTQIA+ resources exist in my host location? 
      • What is the LGBTQIA+ population like in my host location? 
      • What are the cultural norms for dating and friendship? 
      • Whom can I turn to, in my program abroad or back at Duke, if I need support? 
      • What is considered appropriate behavior for students of different genders in the local contexts in which I will find myself? How flexible are local gender norms? 
      • For transgender students: Will I have issues with my passport and visa while traveling? Will I require access to any medications or services? If so, will I need special documentation to transport them to or to acquire them in my host location? 
      • How will other aspects of my identity intersect with my gender identity and/or sexuality? How may this impact my experience studying away? 

Tips for LGBTQIA+ Students Studying Off-Campus

Below are some tips to keep in mind as you begin to prepare for your program. Don’t hesitate to email immerse@duke.edu for more specifics regarding your program location. 

      • Before you leave, familiarize yourself with the customs and laws of your host location. 
      • Research the terms and definitions used in your host location to talk about LGBTQ+ issues. 
      • Have a conversation with your faculty leaders about your concerns, and ask for help developing a strategy to have a positive experience on your program. 
      • Always put your safety first. 

Resources

General 

Country-Specific Information 

Resources for Transgender Students 

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