Accessibility and Diversity Abroad

Underrepresented Minorities Abroad

Students from a variety of backgrounds and identities – including ethnic/racial minorities and LGBTQI+, among others – may need additional support during their time abroad as the level of acceptance and available community in their host country may not be as robust as that in the U.S. Each country’s history and interaction with minority populations is different and we recommend that students with concerns conduct basic research on how their identities are represented in their new host country before arrival.

The following are resources we recommend to students who would like additional support or are interested in exploring their identity(ies) abroad. Students are also encouraged to seek out appropriate additional resources as needed.

Diversity Abroad Network UI Center for Diversity and Enrichment

Disabilities Abroad

Navigating your disability abroad – whether psychological or physical – can create barriers that are not experienced by the vast majority of students who travel overseas. It’s important to keep in mind that while your support system in the U.S. will do everything in our power to help you in your time abroad, many countries do not have the same laws around accessibility that exist in the U.S. and some adjustment may be necessary when making your travel plans.

Even if you do not believe your disability will hinder your global experience in any way, it is important that you disclose your disability to your global programs advisor as early as possible so that any unforeseen barriers can be addressed in a timely manner. Common obstacles that have come up in the past include prescription accessibility, mental health access, LGBTQI+ laws and acceptance, disability accommodations, power needs (eg. powered wheelchair), labor law differences, and other legal considerations. International hosts may be able to make accommodations with sufficient advanced notice.

The following are resources we recommend to students who would like additional support and/or need accommodations for their disability while abroad. Students are also encouraged to seek out appropriate additional resources as needed.

National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE) Amandla Project Diversity Abroad Network