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Teaching Overseas |
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What should I expect when teaching overseas? Before Interviews or Recruiting Fairs · Ask the board of directors, owner, or school council (depending on the nature of your organization) at your school about their policy on hiring gay people. · Ask the board of directors, owner, or school council (depending on the nature of your organization) about the local community's and parents' perceptions on gay issues. · Find out information about the laws of the country of employment regarding discrimination against sexual orientation.
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Will gay teachers be able to be open within the teaching community at your school? Traveling is a wonderful experience, and we believe, a potentially lucrative opportunity to educate others. The typical example we always hear, is that in most countries, you will not likely be able to hold hands in public or display any other types of affection. However, that would also apply to heterosexual couples in some countries. Unfortunately, even in countries that recognize same-sex partnerships and marriage, you may still feel the need to be cautious in certain circumstances: same-sex marriage laws are still relatively new and often our unions are only welcomed in major cities. Of course, if it is legal, and the law is upheld by the authorities, we encourage you to go ahead and hand-hold, as this is one way in which to affect change. None-the-less, if you are going to a country you are not familiar with, or you have never travelled "out", you will be surprised as to how many countries there are where what the law says and what goes varies. We hope that this site can help you to steer your way to safe places--or to at least be aware of what you are signing up for. There are however many countries that are very accepting and you will find yourself to be comfortable right away. |
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How "out" will I be able to be overseas? This depends on the country or countries you will be visiting. Before departing, make sure you are aware of the laws and general acceptance of your destination. To learn more about information for countries around the world, please go to the Safe Countries, or the Links page on this website. |
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Are same-sex partnerships and marriages recognized overseas? Unfortunately, most countries in the world do not recognize same-sex partnerships and marriage. Countries that have a law recognizing same-sex marriage will formally acknowledge your partnership and you will have the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. However, you need to be careful with countries where homosexuality is legal, but this law is not upheld within the community. For example, in some countries, it is legal to be gay, however, police have been known to abuse gays. Please go to the Safe Countries section of the website to find out more information. Also, if traveling to a country where homosexuality is illegal then you may want to consider going into the country as a single person. If your passport states that you are married and it is a same-sex marriage, there are countries that will not let you into their country. |
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How do I find out about the "gay scene" in the country in which I am employed? The Internet is probably the best resource to find out about the gay scene in any country around the world. Also see our Safe Countries section for an in-depth view of certain areas around the world visited by gay travelers or teachers. Also go onto the Teacher Forum and ask teachers around the world. Many travel books, especially Lonely Planet publications, are quite helpful in terms of listing websites for the “gay scenes” around the world. However, you may only find “gay scenes” in the major cities of most countries--especially in those where gay culture is not widely accepted. Most universities have an email listserv that connects queer students, staff and alumni--certainly this would be true for Canadian Universities. If you are moving to a community, this is ideal, but if you are traveling then websites, magazines, and travel books are your best bet.
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Should I tell the school during the interview that I am gay? In any interview it is UP TO YOU if you decide to state your sexual orientation. Interviewers will not ask, even in countries where it is legal to be gay, as it is considered a form of discrimination. Thus, it is up to the interviewee to discuss any concerns they may have. IF YOU PLAN TO BE “OUT” then it is essential that you find out what the laws are of the employing country. Also, consider the views of the administration and teaching staff since they will likely form your social network (at least initially). It is in your best interest to ensure that you will feel comfortable before you sign any contracts.
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Where do I find information on the gay laws in my country? There are many websites available. Please go the Links page or Safe Countries page for more details. Also try government websites that usually have a section about sexual orientation and their laws.
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Teaching Employment Opportunities: Interested in an adventure?
- Prep to Year 12, all subject areas welcome. - Schools Across Melbourne & Regional Australia in Government Registered & Independent Schools. Premium Services & Support Employment, Teaching Registration, Curriculum Information, Resume Profiling, Accommodation, Banking, Visa and Tax Advice, Professional Development, Mentoring, and a Supportive Social Network.
TORF is the original and largest recruiting fair in Canada at Queen's University, established in 1989. It provides a forum for teachers to have face-to-face interviews with administrators of international schools or their representatives. Contract & Casual Relief Teaching Available in Australia Schools Across Melbourne & Regional Australia; P-12; all subject areas welcome; Government Registered & Independent Schools; Short-term contracts with accordance to the Working Holiday Visa (417) provisions; Support with registration, interviews, and induction; Professional & Personal support provided via REd Tram program. |
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How will I know that I will be safe? Of course, safety is never certain--and not just because you may have a minority status. This site (Safe Countries and Links) focuses on providing information for the gay population, but make sure you check other resources, including the British or Canadian government websites which list up-to-date travel information. Women in general should also be more aware and cautious when traveling to certain parts of the world. |
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© Gay Teachers Overseas 2006-2007 |
