It is important to recognize that gender roles and identity are socially constructed ideas that are unique to each location and/or culture. The differences in gender roles and identities between cultures span from minor and unnoticeable to life-altering. It is important to reflect on your native culture’s views on the subject to get a sense of where your own thoughts on the subject may originate.
We encourage all students to do research into social norms and cultural practices of the host location prior to your global education experience. There are several on-campus resources available to help you understand how gender issues may be experienced and understood differently depending on location. For example, female students may want to talk with other women who have studied in the host location or culture. This is a great starting point for learning more about what to expect in a given location. Students may also find that there are significant differences in the norms of dress, behavior, and interpersonal relationships between their own culture and the host culture. Research in advance and observe on site.
It is important that you always prioritize your own safety. Differing cultural norms may make harassment either more prevalent or harder to identify. Cultural sensitivity does not mean that you must tolerate behaviors that make you feel uncomfortable or unsafe but know that this may happen.
We recommend that you follow common-sense safety precautions such as traveling in pairs or groups, dressing in a culturally appropriate manner, and educating yourself about sexual harassment in your host location. Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols and listen to your instincts.
Consider the following before you go:
- At night, travel in groups and never walk alone.
- Let someone know where you are going and when they can expect you to return.
- Use caution when choosing to drink alcohol and avoid all illicit drugs.
- Learn basic phrases in the local language.
- Women: Talk with local women about how to deflect unwanted attention, where possible.
- Pay attention to dressing in a culturally appropriate way that will not draw unwanted attention.
- While on location, will I need access to any medications, supplies, or services relating to physical transition and medical needs? Will I need additional documentation to travel with these items?
- Student Affairs LGBTQIA+ Resources* - Website from the Division of Student Affairs seeking to improve visibility and support for LGBTQIA+ students and employees.
- Office of Diversity and Inclusion LGBTQIA+* - Pitt’s resources that aim to improve visibility and support for LGBTQIA+ students.
- Women Going Abroad – Diversity Abroad’s webpage and resources for women going abroad.
- OutRight Action International - Leading international organization dedicated to human rights advocacy on behalf of people who experience discrimination or abuse on the basis of their actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
- NAFSA: Association of International Educators - Rainbow Special Interest Group - Resources for students studying abroad who identify as LGBTIA+
- National Center for Transgender Equality – Resources with articles and updates on laws and your rights when you’re traveling.
- International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association - Worldwide federation of more than 1,600 organizations from over 150 countries and territories campaigning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex human rights.
- TransRespect - Trans laws by country.