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For LGBTQ+ Travelers researching your host country’s acceptance of the LGBTQ community is important to gauge how you will be able to interact safely.

In some countries, LGBTQ communities are openly embraced and welcomed. In others, the sentiment may be hostile and the government may have enacted laws criminalizing behavior, relationships, and even expressions of LBGTQ acceptance or existence. MISTI would like to make sure you understand these challenges and risks when going abroad so you can make the best informed decision for your personal well-being.  

MIT has resources to provide this information via your country program manager, the MIT program manager for International Safety and Security, Todd Holmes (tholmes [at] mit.edu (tholmes[at]mit[dot]edu)) and the LBGTQ Center (lbgt [at] mit.edu (lbgt[at]mit[dot]edu)). You may also contact the MISTI DEI lead at mistidei [at] mit.edu (mistidei[at]mit[dot]edu). We welcome you to raise any concerns with us. 

 

Useful Sites

US Department of State: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/lgbt.html

76 Crimes: https://76crimes.com/

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association: www.ilga.org

"Medical and Welfare service for LGBT individuals in Japan”  by the Queer and Women’s Resource Center

Regional Events

Kansai Queer Film Festival

Osaka Venue:
September 21st (Sat), 22nd (Sun), 23th (Mon/Nat. Hol.)
STEP (Toyonaka Gender Equality Promotion Center)

Kyoto Venue:
October 18th (Fri), 19th (Sat), 20th (Sun)
Kyoto University Seibu-Kodo (West Auditorium)