By Aimee Jewell–

For the first time in U of L history, the LGBT program is hosting a study abroad program to Greece from May 9 to May 24. Because Greece offers a strong LGBT history, the Office of LGBT studies is very excited to be offering this opportunity to students.

“This is the first time a southern school has seen an LGBT study abroad trip,” said Brian Buford, Director of the LGBT Program at U of L. “We want to be the most welcoming and inclusive campus for LGBT students and allies.”

LGBT students and allies alike are all welcome to travel to Greece. The travel package is $3,987, which covers round-trip airfare from Louisville to Greece, cultural activities in Athens and on Isle of Lesbos, public transportation passes and plenty of accommodations. A passport, immunizations and personal spending money are not included in the package sum.

“I am incredibly excited to learn about LGBT culture in another place other than the United States. Being born in the U.S., it’s all I know, so it will be exciting to see another culture,” said MC Lampe, a senior in the LGBT program who is attending the trip to Greece.

With the writing of Sappho being one of the first pieces of evidence that trace back to the LGBT origin, Greece has a very strong connection to the LGBT community. This is why the Office of LGBT Studies chose Queer Politics in Greece as the main topic on their education agenda.

“Greece has an incredibly long and rich history of LGBT people,” said Lampe. “One of the farthest traces we can find of LGBT people in history that’s concrete comes from Greece. It’s got a lot to offer.”

The office for LGBT Services also awarded scholarships to those attending the study abroad trip. Fifteen students were awarded scholarships. Applications for scholarships were due Jan 15, but there are still spots available to attend the trip.

“We’re really excited to be offering this opportunity to students. We are striving to be one of the most welcoming universities in the nation. A lot of folks are really pleased to see U of L moving in this direction and offering something so innovative.”

If you want more information on the trip, contact the LGBT office at (502) 852-0696 or at [email protected]. Information for the Greece study abroad can also be found online at www.Louisville.edu/LGBT.

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Photo: Flickr/UggBoyUggGirl