LGBTQ+ Students Abroad
Education Abroad at Portland Community College is committed to ensuring that all students have safe and accessible options for studying abroad. Although many LGBTQ+ people safely travel internationally each year, it is true that norms regarding gender identity and sexual vary widely throughout the world. It is important, therefore, that we help you research the cultural climate, laws, and resources of different countries while choosing an education abroad program.
PCC’s Queer Resource Center is a great resource in addition to those listed below with information specifically on considerations for studying abroad.
Websites
- International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans & Intersex Association (ILGA) – an organization which is committed to advancing human rights to all people by providing information on legislation in different countries that affects the LGBTQI community
- World Map of Sexual Orientation Laws (compiled by ILGA) – interactive maps that show how LGBTIQ people are affected by laws and policies around the world
- OutRight Action International (formerly known as the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission) – an organization that works with partners around the globe to strengthen the capacity of the LGBTIQ movement to advocate for inclusion and equality
- Spartacus International Gay Travel Index – a resource that ranks countries based on how LGBTQ-friendly they are
- National Center for Transgender Equality – an organization founded by transgender activists who advocate for policy change to advance transgender equality
- US Department of State information for LGBTI Travelers – Passport information and travel tips for LGBTQ+ folks
Videos
- College Student Finds His Queer Voice While Studying Abroad in Rome – from the I’m From Driftwood: the LGBTQ Story Archive (7:32)
- Tendai Mukau’s Study Abroad Story in Russia – from USA Study Abroad
Blogs and Articles
- Guide to Sexual and Gender Expression Abroad – A guide for preparing to travel abroad for LGBTQ+ folks
- “LGBT Student Guide to Studying Abroad” – from GoAbroad.com
- “8 Questions LGBT Travelers Should Ask Before Traveling Abroad” – Meg Cale (2022) from the Matador Network
- “Being Gay in New Zealand” – John R. from IFSA Unpacked