LGBT Concerns
While abroad, many students develop new friendships. Some of these friendships may become intimate and sexual in nature. A foreign country may appear to provide a safe haven for exploring sexual and gender identities free from the judgments of friends and family. Unfortunately, students can learn that what appeared to be a safe environment was not safe at all. While some countries are more supportive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights than the United States, others stipulate punishments for same-sex acts and transgender behavior. These can range from fines and beatings to lengthy jail sentences, and, in some countries, even death.
It is important to be aware of the laws pertaining to sexual orientations and behaviors and gender identity and expression in other countries, as well as the general attitudes of the populace toward gay, lesbian, and bisexual members of their community. The countries you visit may be more or less 'liberated' (on a general U.S. scale of values) in this regard, but will in all cases be at least somewhat unique. Moreover, whatever the general rule, there will always be pockets of difference and personal idiosyncrasies. Country-specific information is often available from campus offices, personnel, and student groups. You should certainly talk with other students who have been where you will be.
For information on issues and resources pertaining to gay, lesbian, and bisexual travel, you also may want to consult publications available in most bookstores and libraries, which carry such literature as Gaia's Guide, "an international guide for traveling women," that includes information on restaurants,accommodations, travel, and the like; or Spartacus International Gay Guide, which provides listings of hotlines, publications, bars, etc. for gay men throughout the world. On-line information and referrals are readily available at Let's Go, including country-by country mentions.
The NAFSA: Association of International Educators Rainbow Special Interest Group maintains a comprehensive web resource.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender travel guides and literature are sold in the Regulator Bookshop on Ninth Street or can be checked out from the LGBT Center library located at 02 West Union Building on West Campus (phone: 919-684-6607. Another good source of information is the Women's Center (phone: 919-684-3897 or womenctr@duke.edu) at 126 Few Quad.
