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< Back to School Policy Hub Asexuality and Aromanticism What is Asexuality? What is Aromanticism? Ace and Aro Spectrums History Issues Symbols What is Asexuality? Asexuality is an umbrella term that encompasses orientations in which a person experiences little to no sexual attraction. There is also a distinct lack of desire to be physically/sexually intimate with others. Despite feeling no sexual attraction, asexual individuals can still form romantic and platonic relationships. They may even date or marry a sexual partner. The shorthand term "ace" is often used to describe asexual individuals. What is Aromanticism? Aromanticism is the lack of interest in or desire for romantic relationships. Where alloromantic (the opposite of aromantic) people have an emotional need to be with another person in a romantic relationship, aromantic people are often satisfied with friendships and other non-romantic relationships. The shorthand term "aro" is often used to describe aromantic individuals. Ace and Aro Spectrums While some people who are asexual experience no sexual attraction, many fall somewhere between asexual and allosexual (the opposite of asexual). Diagram of Asexual and Aromantic identities (Image Source: Femestella/Asexuality.org) This region of sexuality is called gray-asexual or gray-A . It includes demisexual , which means that you only experience sexual attraction after forming a strong romantic connection with someone. Similarly, demiromantic people experience a romantic attraction only after forming a strong emotional connection with someone. Asexual History The idea of asexuality has evolved greatly since its origin. In 1860, the first known mention of asexuality was referred to as “monosexual,” for those who do not engage in sex with a partner, but rather only themselves. In the 1940s and 50s, the Kinsey Scale, a test that places individuals on a spectrum from heterosexual to homosexual, included a new category entitled “X” to refer to individuals who reported “no socio-sexual contacts or reactions.” Ace and Aro Issues There are many common myths about asexuality since it’s one of the most misunderstood and underrepresented sexual orientations. Common Misconceptions "Asexuality is the same as celibacy." Asexuality is NOT celibacy. Celibacy is a choice due to religious or personal beliefs, while asexuality is a sexual orientation. As we know, people don’t choose who (and how) they are or aren’t sexually attracted to others. "Asexuals don't experience love and can't form meaningful relationships." Asexuality covers sexual attraction, not romantic attraction. Asexuals are perfectly capable of loving, being loved, and forming healthy relationships. "Asexuals are just ace because they had a bad experience with sex." A person’s orientation is not determined by their history, good or bad. Past experiences with abuse do not “make” people asexual. "Asexuals can't have sex. " Sex drive and sexual attraction are two different things. An asexual person can have a sex drive without feeling sexual attraction to anybody. Other asexuals may lack a sex drive completely, while others may be repulsed by sex altogether. "Aromantics can't feel love." Individuals who identify on the aromantic spectrum do indeed feel love. They experience familial and platonic love and may even feel a varying range of romantic love. "Someone who is aromantic is also asexual." Being both aromantic and asexual is possible, but it isn’t the default. An aromantic person may identify with any sexual orientation. Aromanticism does not automatically indicate asexuality. Other Issues A large amount of invalidation is directed towards asexuality and aromanticism both from outside and within the LGBTQ+ community. Many consider asexuality and aromanticism to be a "phase" that can be grown out of. Many people assume that asexual or aromantic people just "haven't found the right person." On top of this, asexuality is rarely discussed in sexual education. While many schools have made great strides in discussing same-sex relationships and gender non-conformity, they have failed to normalize feeling no sexual attraction at all. This makes many asexual and aromantic people question whether or not their lack of sexual attraction is acceptable. Ace and Aro Symbols Asexual Flag In 2010, several asexual websites held a contest to design an asexual flag. The asexual flag used today was designed by AVEN user Standup. This flag has four stripes: Black - Represents asexuals Grey - Represents gray-asexuals and demisexuals White - Represents allosexuals Purple - Represents community Aromantic Flag The first aromantic flag had four stripes: Green - The "opposite" of red, a traditionally romantic color) Yellow - Represents friendship Orange - Represents grey-aromantics (because it is between yellow and red) Black - Represent alloromantics. This was later modified because it was considered too similar to the Rastafarian flag. The second flag consisted of 5 stripes: Dark and light green - Represent identities on the aromantic spectrum Yellow - Represents friendship Gray and Black - Represent the various sexualities within the aromantic community This yellow stripe was later replaced with white to be more visually appealing but retained the same meaning. Ace of Spades Because asexual is often shortened to ace, the ace of spades is a common symbol of asexuality. Ace of Hearts Because asexual is often shortened to ace, the ace of hearts is a common symbol of asexuality. This is specifically for alloromantic individuals, meaning they can experience romantic attraction. Ace Rings An ace ring is a term for a black ring that the wearer intends as a symbol of their asexual identity. It is usually worn on the middle finger. Arrow Because aromantic is often shortened to aro, an arrow is a common symbol of aromanticism. References Oxford University. (n.d.). Asexuality Meaning . Lexico Dictionaries. https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/asexuality . Oxford University. (n.d.). Aromantic Meaning . Lexico Dictionaries. https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/aromantic . Overview . Overview | The Asexual Visibility and Education Network. (n.d.). https://www.asexuality.org/?q=overview.html . Asexual . LGBTA Wiki. (n.d.). https://lgbta.wikia.org/wiki/Asexual . Pride flags . The Gender & Sexuality Resource Center. (n.d.). https://www.unco.edu/gender-sexuality-resource-center/resources/pride-flags.aspx . Asexuality . LGBT+ 🏳️🌈 Wiki. (n.d.). https://lgbt-plus.fandom.com/wiki/Asexuality . Wikia.org . (n.d.). Aromantic . LGBTA Wiki. Retrieved from https://lgbta.wikia.org/wiki/Aromantic .

< Back to School Policy Hub Homosexuality as a Mental Illness American Psychology Association World Health Organization Legacy Until recently, homosexuality was considered to be a mental illness by both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These classifications were a result of the widespread belief that sexual orientations other than heterosexuality were something needing to be cured or remedied, fostered by society’s discomfort with those who fall outside of what was considered “normal.” Now, however, both of these organizations have removed sexual orientation from their classifications of mental illnesses. American Psychiatric Association Protest of the classification of homosexuality as a mental illness by the APA. (Image Source: Cured/Patrick Sammon, Bennett Singer) Since its founding in 1892, the APA has released five editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), providing information and listings of psychiatric diagnoses. In its first two editions, DSM-I and DSM-II, homosexuality was found as a listed diagnosis. However, in 1973, the APA decided to remove homosexuality as a psychiatric diagnosis from the DSM-III and all following editions, including the current DSM-5. However, they replaced it with " sexual orientation disturbance" for people "in conflict with" their sexual orientation. Not until 1987 did homosexuality completely fall out of the DSM. This decision began the end of negative medicinal stigma surrounding homosexuality and other LGBTQ+ identities, and it was pivotal in generating similar shifts in other areas, such as the WHO. World Health Organization The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) determined by the WHO is the largest and most commonly utilized classification system for diseases around the globe. In the ICD-10, which was endorsed in 1990 and remains the most recently adopted version of the ICD, homosexuality was removed as a mental illness. However, other variations of sexual orientation were classified as mental illnesses, such as someone who "wishes it were different because of associated psychological and behavioral disorders." In the direction of progress, however, the ICD-11, which was finalized in 2018, removes sexual orientation from its classifications of mental illnesses, following the lead of the APA in 1973. While the ICD-11 is not yet used in widespread medical practice, it reflects the understanding that neither sexual orientation nor gender identity is indicative of mental illness. Legacy The declassification of homosexuality as a mental illness by the APA and WHO was an important step in removing the negative stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ identities. Overall, these decisions were vital milestones in normalizing and accepting the LGBTQ+ community from a medical and social standpoint. Dr. John Fryer giving his speech as Dr. Henry Anonymous to convince the APA to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness at the 1972 APA annual conference (Image Source: 217 Boxes of Dr. Henry Anonymous/Ain Gordan) References Drescher, J. (2015). Out of DSM: Depathologizing Homosexuality. Behavioral Sciences , 5 (4), 565–575. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs5040565 Burton, N. (2015, September 18). When Homosexuality Stopped Being a Mental Disorder . Psychology Today. Retrieved November 9, 2021, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hide-and-seek/201509/when-homosexuality-stopped-being-mental-disorder. Fernández Rodríguez, M. (2018). Gender incongruence is no longer a mental disorder. JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY , 2 (5), 6–8. https://doi.org/10.29245/2578-2959/2018/5.1157 Cochran, S. D., Drescher, J., Kismödi, E., Giami, A., García-Moreno, C., Atalla, E., Marais, A., Meloni Vieira, E., & Reed, G. M. (2020). Proposed declassification of disease categories related to sexual orientation in the international statistical classification of diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11). FOCUS , 18 (3), 351–357. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.18303

< Return to Open Positions Youth Advisory Committee We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Youth Advisory Committee Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org The Board of Directors is the head of PRISM, making all of the final decisions regarding events, fundraising and more! The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) advises our Board on how to best serve young people in South Florida by uplifting the voices of young people themselves! This is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get : An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities: Attend monthly YAC meetings Review all items introduced by the Board of Directors and make recommendations Ensure that PRISM is carrying out its overall mission Required Qualifications: 14-18 years old by July 10th, 2024 Local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach (Strongly Preferred) Preferred Qualifications: Experience with LGBT advocacy, student organizing, or content creation Knowledge of parliamentary procedure Qualities We’re Looking For: Detail-oriented Creative and willing to improve upon our existing structures, designs, and philosophies Reliable Collaborative PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

< Back to School Policy Hub Myths About Gender-Affirming Care There are numerous myths, falsehoods, and flat-out lies being used to justify anti-trans legislation and attacks against gender-affirming care . In this post, we take a look at some of the most common myths and explain what they get wrong. "De-transitoning is common." "Transitioning does more harm than good." "Kids are too young to understand gender." Myth 1: "De-transitioning is common." The desire to de-transition after gender-affirming care, particularly surgery, is rare. Many studies find that only about 1% of those surveyed regret transitioning. This means fewer adults regret transitioning than regret getting breast implants or plastic surgery. De-Transitioning Among Youth The Trans Youth Project is a recent study from 2017 to 2022. Its purpose was to provide the first estimates on retransition within trans youth. The sample size included 317 initially binary trans youth between the ages of 3 and 12. Over five years, the youth participants and their parents reported data on their current gender identity. The results found that by the end of the study, 94% of the children continued to identify with their binary trans identity. Another 3.5% later identified as nonbinary, and only 2.5% of participants identified as cisgender. Myth 2: "Transitioning does more harm than good." Some claim that puberty blockers lead to side effects like infertility and abnormal social and mental development. In reality, there is no substantial evidence backing these claims. The only way puberty blockers interfere with fertility is by pausing the production of sperm or eggs. However, it is not permanent, and production can start again by stopping treatment. Puberty blockers have been shown to have positive effects, such as reducing suicidality in trans people. Myth 3: "Kids are too young to understand gender." It’s also falsely believed that children are too young to understand something as complex as gender and what they identify as, or that being trans is “just a phase.” Although many children and adolescents go through phases and explore their identities, the notion that they’re completely clueless is false. Most children can identify their own gender by age 3. As they continue to socialize, they’re able to recognize the disconnect between their actual gender and the one they were assigned. It’s common for trans people to have dysphoric thoughts at an early age– most dysphoria occurs by the time they’re 7 years old. References 20220420-gender-dysphoria-press-release | Florida Department of Health . (2022, April 20). Florida Health. https://www.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/04/20220420-gender-dysphoria-press-release.pr.html Branigin, A. (2022, April 20). Florida memo on gender dysphoria contradicts leading medical guidance . The Washington Post. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2022/04/20/florida-gender-dysphoria-memo/ Caputo, M. (2022, June 3). DeSantis moves to ban transition care for transgender youths, Medicaid recipients . NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/desantis-moves-ban-transition-care-transgender-youth-medicaid-recipien-rcna31736 Children and gender identity: Supporting your child . (2022, February 23). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/children-and-gender-identity/art-20266811#:%7E:text=Most%20children%20typically%20develop%20the,gender%20by%20age%203%20years. Fenway Health. (n.d.). Puberty-Suppression-Risks-and-Benefits-English.pdf . https://fenwayhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/Puberty-Suppression-Risks-and-Benefits-English.pdf Most Gender Dysphoria Established by Age 7, Study Finds . (2020, June 16). Cedars-Sinai. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/most-gender-dysphoria-established-by-age-7-study-finds/ Olson, K. R., Durwood, L., Horton, R., Gallagher, N. M., & Devor, A. (2022, July 13). Gender Identity 5 Years After Social Transition . American Academy of Pediatrics. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/2/e2021056082/186992/Gender-Identity-5-Years-After-Social-Transition?autologincheck=redirected O’Neil, T. (2022, July 11). California ex-trans teen backs Florida ban on Medicaid funds for transgender medical interventions . Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/health/california-ex-trans-teen-backs-florida-ban-medicaid-funds-transgender-medical-interventions Turban, J. L., King, D., Carswell, J. M., & Keuroghlian, A. S. (2020). Pubertal Suppression for Transgender Youth and Risk of Suicidal Ideation. Pediatrics , 145 (2), e20191725. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-1725

< Back to School Policy Hub Hepatitis C What is Hep C? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive Prevention What is Hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is an enveloped virus composed of an RNA-positive genome. It contains glycoproteins on its outer surface. (Image Source: KATERYNA KON/ Getty Images) Hepatitis C is an infection that targets the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is a different virus from HSV ( herpes ), HPV, and HIV . It can present itself as a short-term illness, or it can develop into a chronic issue. It is estimated that over 50,000 people contract acute hepatitis C in the US every year. Hepatitis C is treatable. Those infected with HCV can be cured if they receive treatment early on. Getting tested regularly is vital as early detection can greatly improve treatment outcomes. How It's Spread Hepatitis C travels through the blood. Needlestick injuries and drug use provide a gateway for infection and are the leading causes for transmission. If you have experienced either one of these, it is highly recommended to get tested for Hepatitis C regularly. (Image Source: Verywell) Hepatitis C is spread through infected blood. It is primarily transmitted via injection drug use with reused needles as well as from mother to baby during childbirth. Although it is not as common, it can also be passed during sex. Ensuring sterilization in procedures that access blood is essential in preventing hepatitis C. Symptoms Hepatitis C can present itself through various different symptoms. Dark urine and jaundice are two symptoms that indicate complications with the liver and can lead to a diagnosis. (Image Source: Verywell) After exposure to Hepatitis C, symptoms can show up anywhere between 2-26 weeks later. Some symptoms that indicate a hepatitis C infection include fever, dark urine, clay-colored stool, and jaundice, a yellow tint to the skin indicating complications with the liver. Chronic infections can lead to additional complications such as chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and cirrhosis. Getting Tested Testing is essential in getting an early diagnosis and treating Hepatitis C. Testing for HCV involves a simple blood test. The CDC recommends “ universal hepatitis C screening for all U.S. adults and all pregnant women during every pregnancy .” Current testing can detect the Hepatitis C virus as early as 1-2 weeks after the initial exposure. Seriously. If hepatitis C goes untreated, you are more susceptible to developing severe scarring of the liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Click here to find a local testing center . Testing Positive So, your results came back positive. Don’t worry! If caught early, there are measures that can be taken to mitigate symptoms. In fact, 90% of infected individuals can be cured within 8-12 weeks of treatment. Limiting alcohol consumption also helps fight the infection as HCV infects the liver, the same organ that breaks down alcohol. Prevention Get tested. Getting tested regularly allows you to treat the infection early on, limiting who you expose to HCV. Additionally, medical evaluations should include screening for chronic liver diseases and HIV. Antivirals may also be prescribed, along with a recommendation to maintain a healthy diet and physical activity. Use clean needles. Don't share needles when shooting drugs or getting tattoos or piercings. References Hepatitis C Questions and Answers for Health Professionals . (2021). https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/hcvfaq.htm#section1 Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP). (2020, August 21). Hepatitis C Basic Information . HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/hepatitis/learn-about-viral-hepatitis/hepatitis-c-basics/index.html . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, July 29). Testing recommendations for hepatitis c virus infection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/guidelinesc.htm .

< Back to School Policy Hub Transgender What Does Transgender Mean? What is Gender? Transgender Issues What Not to Say Transitioning Trans Symbols How to Get Support What Does Transgender Mean? Transgender individuals are people whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Conversely, "cisgender" describes a person whose gender identity does align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender is also an umbrella term used to describe many different identities: non-binary , demi-gender, gender non-conforming, trans-masc or femme, transgender man, bigender, agender, and more. What is Gender? Gender is a combination of social, emotional, and cultural ideas that define how humans interact with each other. These can be broken down into two sectors: gender identity and gender expression. Gender Identity Gender identity is how you perceive yourself on the gender spectrum. This can fall anywhere on the gender spectrum and is not limited to male or female. Gender Expression Gender expression is how you display yourself outwardly. This can include the clothes you wear, how you style your hair, or even how you talk. You can learn more about gender identity and expression here . Transgender Issues Transgender people can face many different problems, such as transphobia, gender dysphoria, and deadnaming. Gender Dysphoria This condition, formerly known as Gender Identity Disorder, is the distress a person may feel as a result of their emotional and psychological identity not coinciding with their biological sex. One of the earliest signs of knowing one is transgender is feeling gender dysphoria. Feelings or signs of gender dysphoria are, but are not limited to: A certainty that your gender identity conflicts with your biological sex You only feel comfortable when in the gender role of your preferred identity (may include non-binary) A strong desire to hide or be rid of physical signs of your biological sex, such as breasts or body hair A strong dislike of the genitals you were born with You may feel lonely or isolated from others. You may also face pressure from friends, classmates, coworkers, or family to behave a certain way. It’s important to note that you don’t need to experience gender dysphoria to be transgender. Not all transgender people experience gender dysphoria. Transphobia Transphobia encompasses a range of negative attitudes, feelings, or actions toward transgender people or transness in general. Transphobia can include fear, aversion, hatred, violence, anger, or discomfort felt or expressed towards people who do not conform to social gender expectations. Just like gay or lesbian individuals can deal with homophobia, transgender people can deal with transphobia daily. Transphobia can lead to depression, a greater feeling of gender dysphoria, and a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem. Misgendering and Deadnaming Misgendering is using a former pronoun of a transgender or non-binary person. Deadnaming is using a transgender or non-binary person’s former name. Intentionally deadnaming or misgendering is highly inappropriate and harmful. However, in some cases, deadnaming or misgendering can be accidental. If you knew a transgender person before they discovered their gender identity, you might be used to referring to them by their old pronouns and deadname. It might be a force of habit to refer to someone by their old identity. However, it is still wrong, even if it is accidental. If you accidentally refer to a transgender person by their old identity, name, or pronouns, simply apologize and correct yourself. What Not to Say If a transgender person discovers themself, even if they have not elected to gender reassignment surgery or hormone replacement therapy, never refer to them as their previous gender identity. For example, someone named David goes down the road of discovery and finds out that they are transgender. David’s new name is Dalia, and they now go by she/her and Dalia only. You should never say: “Dalia was a guy before, and her name was David.” “David was born a man but turned into a girl.” “Dalia is biologically male.” It’s important to note that Dalia was never a man; she was only assigned male at birth. If you want to mention Dalia’s transition (with her permission, of course), consider saying: “Dalia was assigned male at birth, but she now identifies as female.” “Dalia is a transgender woman.” Dalia is also not a drag queen, a transvestite, a transsexual, or "a transgender." To learn about these terms and why they are inaccurate and, oftentimes, offensive, see our Outdated Trans Terms article. Avoid focusing on someone’s transition or presentation. A common term you may hear when discussing transgender people is “passing” or “stealth.” This describes someone who presents themselves in such a way that you “can’t tell” that they’re transgender. Using these terms without a transgender person’s permission is wrong for several reasons. Not only does it imply that transgender people need to physically transform in order to be valid, it also reinforces dangerous gender norms . Ultimately, it's harmful to make a transgender person feel like they are “passing as something they’re not” or “tricking” people. Transitioning Transgender people may use various medical and non-medical interventions or procedures to alter their bodies in a way that aligns with their gender identity. However, it is important to note that not all transgender people do this, and it is not required to be transgender. These interventions and procedures are part of a greater support system known as gender-affirming care (GAC) . You can learn about the many different kinds of GAC, like hormone therapy and surgery, in our Gender-Affirming Care article. Transgender Symbols Transgender Gender Symbol The transgender gender symbol is a combination of the gender symbols for male and female. An alternate version also integrates the symbol for genderqueer. The transgender gender symbol. The transgender gender symbol including the genderqueer symbol. Transgender Flag Transgender Pride Flag (1999) A very prominent symbol of the transgender community, this flag was first designed by transgender woman Monica Helms in 1999 and first used in 2000 at a pride parade in Phoenix, Arizona. Blue represents boys, pink represents girls, and white represents those who are transitioning, intersex, or consider themselves as having an unidentified gender. Black Transgender Pride Flag (2015) Black Transgender Flag A symbol of the transgender community specifically made for Black trans people, this flag was designed by Raquel Willis and first used in 2015. The colors have the same meaning as the more commonly used flag, except the black is meant to symbolize the high levels of transphobia, violence, and racism directed towards Black members of the trans community, especially Black trans women. How to Get Support You always deserve support. We know that the journey to discovering one's self can be a difficult one with plenty of bumps and setbacks and crying-in-the-showers. That's perfectly normal! Just remember that there's an entire community behind you; others have been in your shoes and have felt the same fear, uncertainty, and anxiety. We get it, and we're here for you. If you need help or are struggling to find support, check out our Where To Find Support article. References NHS website. (2021, April 20). Signs. Nhs.Uk. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gender-dysphoria/symptoms/ Chakraborti, N. C., & Jon Garland, J. G. (2009). Hate crime : impact, causes and responses : Chakraborti, Neil : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/hatecrimeimpactc00neil/mode/1up Leonard, J. (2019, October 9). What to know about female-to-male surgery. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326590#:%7E:text=Female%2Dto%2Dmale%20surgery%20is,known%20as%20%E2%80%9Cbottom%E2%80%9D%20surgery What is gender reassignment surgery? (2018, September 21). ISSM. https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/what-is-gender-reassignment-surgery/ What Are Appropriate Labels & Terms For Transgender People? (n.d.). Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender/transgender-identity-terms-and-labels GLAAD Media Reference Guide - Transgender. (2021, March 29). GLAAD. https://www.glaad.org/reference/transgender Lopez, G. (2015, February 18). Why you should always use “transgender” instead of “transgendered.” Vox. https://www.vox.com/2015/2/18/8055691/transgender-transgendered-tnr

< Back to School Policy Hub The School To Prison Pipeline What is the School To Prison Pipeline? Historical Context The Devastating Results Case Studies Criminology Impact on Students Abuse of Power Labor Exploitation Conclusion What is the School To Prison Pipeline? The School To Prison Pipeline. It’s a charming little name hiding a deep, dark secret. Racial justice and the myriad of issues surrounding our understanding and conception of race in this country have been at the forefront of our news cycles for years now. The roots of what would eventually become known as the School To Prison Pipeline were planted in the 1970s. Image Source: Unsplash Historical Context Few students (less than four percent in 1973) were sent to out-of-school home suspension, though increasing awareness or fear of crime and violence in schools was growing. This tension applied pressure to state politicians and school districts to adopt policies that necessitated the suspension of students who had a perceived violation of proper conduct. In 1994, the Gun-Free Schools Act was passed, thus striking into law a year-long suspension out of school for any student who was caught bearing a weapon in school. It was called ‘zero-tolerance.’ The Devastating Results Zero-tolerance policies directly resulted in not only a doubling of suspensions since the 1970s, but even downright expulsion. Proponents of these policies may argue this is a good thing—we have to protect our children, right? Critics would say back, however, that these policies are broad, subject to interpretation, and disproportionately affect Black, low-income, and other minority students. Case Studies In Maryland, 2013: A seven-year-old boy was suspended after he chewed a PopTart pastry into a gun shape and aimed the pastry at a friend, apparently endangering his life by way of sugar paste. In 2014, an Ohio boy in the fifth grade was suspended after he pushed his fingers together in the shape of a gun and pretended to shoot one of his classmates. Criminology Part of the problem lies in a classic criminological theory known as ‘the broken windows theory.’ The basic idea is as follows. Neighborhoods with broken windows, loitering, prostitution, etc., are neighborhoods that are uncared for and in a state of decay. Small crimes, such as sex work, smoking marijuana, or other minor offenses, should be the focus of police work, which, in theory, will prevent larger crimes. It was meant to empower local communities, allow the public to take back their spaces, and have police officers prevent major crimes by cracking down on smaller ones. Unfortunately, theory is only ever as good as results. Impact on Students Image Source: Unsplash Though the ‘Broken Windows’ theory was designed to be applied on a larger scale to neighborhoods and communities, its basic principles were being utilized in an already strained and racially separated system: public school. Racial disparities in things like access to education, access to services, and even quality of education had been evident for all to see for decades by this time, but now the problem was compounded. Zero-tolerance policies in schools and suspensions from education disproportionately targeted lower-class and minority school systems. Child ‘offenders’ are routinely taken out of classes for minor infractions or disorderly conduct and transported by police to detention facilities. Lining the hallways of schools and even stationed in classrooms, police officers with guns on their hips observe children wearing Mario-themed backpacks or with Hello Kitty notebooks tucked under their arms as they walk by. Rather than serving as protection, these officers are here to ensure order is maintained and damned be the consequences for the children they are ostensibly there to protect. Abuse of Power In Louisiana, according to Learning for Justice, a complaint was filed with the United States Department of Justice, noting, “school officials have given armed police ‘unfettered authority to stop, frisk, detain, question, search and arrest schoolchildren on and off school grounds.’” In treating children like criminals regardless of whether they have committed an offense or not, we teach them that they are only as good as the system that tells them so. When we push children out of school for minor infractions- some as innocent as forgetting pencils- they end up in the prison system years later as actual criminals. Labor Exploitation This is profitable for states, as the private prison system has boomed in recent decades, making a tidy profit off the labor of incarcerated individuals. Not all of these hardened criminals are adults, either. A healthy number of these so-called ‘crooks’ are children. As Tracie R. Porter from the Arkansas Law Review points out, “‘...The industry of kids-for-cash became so pervasive that [d]etention center workers were told in advance how many juveniles to expect at the end of each day—even before hearings to determine their innocence or guilt.’ Children appeared before the judges following minor crimes such as mocking an assistant principal on a social media page...and stealing DVDs from Wal-Mart.” The need for cheap labor and shrinking government budgets in the face of recessions, pandemics, or even shifts in public attitude means that individuals in prison systems are being used, essentially, as slave labor for as long as their term limits apply. Students being expelled or downright arrested in school equals free labor. Once they are released from whatever minor offense they caused, it is more likely that they will re-offend and end up back in prison than not. Conclusion The Bureau of Justice’s sobering statistics states that two-thirds of released prisoners are arrested again within three years. Data from 2015, according to the Sentencing Project, shows that black students are five times more likely than white students to be incarcerated. With the ever-present tension of racism in our nation, the way we dehumanize black bodies, the way we heavily police neighborhoods and school systems with black students, is it any wonder the outcome for these kids is less than stellar? We are funneling children into a get-rich-quick scheme and pretending that it is somehow in their best interest. Broken windows may be one thing, but we are breaking people.

< Return to Open Positions Data and Research Manager We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Data and Research Manager Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org In order to keep track of our objectives, maximize the impact of our work, and find new opportunities for growth, our Data & Research Manager will work alongside the rest of our team to conduct surveys and monitor analytics. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach counties are strongly preferred. Hours: 10-15/wk Pay: $22/hr Responsibilities : Coordinate and develop community needs assessments and other surveying programs Oversee data analysis and reporting of survey data collected by PRISM Compile data into interpretable trends and correlations Coordinate the content, formal review, distribution, promotion, analysis, and reporting of all surveying within PRISM Qualifications : Experience conducting surveys and studies involving human beings Experience with data analysis/statistical reporting Exposure to LGBTQ+ issues, sexual health/public health, or gender and sexuality Institutional review board (IRB) experience preferred PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

< Back Hannah Neuman Development & Operations Director Hannah is a genderqueer lesbian from Jacksonville, FL with a BSc from Florida State University. They have an extensive background in education and youth empowerment, and a deep passion for community-building. Over the last three years, they have co-directed two small non-profits focused on uplifting houseless individuals and local artists by expanding access to vital resources. Hannah is currently plans to pursue a Masters of Social Work in 2025. As a Jewish member of the queer community, they are dedicated to Collective Liberation—actively uplifting Palestinian voices in their fight for freedom at every opportunity. In addition to advocacy work, Hannah enjoys practicing astrology, tarot, art, and vegan cooking. In their free time, you can often find them taking a long hike through nature, working on a magazine collage, or performing with their indie-rock band “No Parts”. < Back to Our Team

< Return to Open Positions Policy Director We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Policy Director Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org The Policy Director oversees our Policy Task Force, which works to solve challenges at the local, state, and national levels, with an emphasis on fighting for the LGBTQ+ community, especially LGBTQ+ people of color across South Florida. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Hours: 30/wk Pay: $22/hr Responsibilities : Organizing grassroots actions and events to influence public opinion on key policy initiatives Recruit and train grassroots activists and community members for public policy work Coordinate scheduling and logistics for lobbying initiatives Support and assist in the direction of cross-task force engagement in policy programs Organize coalition support for legislative priorities and provide support to partners for legislative priorities Draft regular legislative and school board tracking updates Qualifications : Strong event planning and organizing skills Strong communication and public speaking skill Be comfortable communicating professionally to large audiences, especially those with opposing viewpoints Be able to work digitally, with reliable internet access Be able to travel long distances for in-person initiatives, with reliable transportation Lobbying experience strongly preferred Understanding of laws and policies that impact LGBTQ+ youth, sexual health, and public education preferred Familiarity with Google Suite preferred PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

Learn all about being pansexual and the pansexual community! < Return to Resources Pansexual Resources Learn all about being pansexual and the pansexual community! The Basics Sexual Orientation Basics Sexual orientation is a person's gender identity in relation to the gender to which they are attracted. Learn More Pansexuality Pansexuality means an attraction to all gender identities. Learn More Coming Out Tips Check out our tips and advice for how to come out safely. Learn More History The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Learn More Stonewall Riots The Stonewall Riots of 1969 were a response to police brutality against the LGBTQ+ community. Learn More Homosexuality as a Mental Illness It wasn't until 1973 that homosexuality was declassified as a mental illness by the American Psychiatric Association. Learn More Black Cat Protests The Black Cat Protests were a series of LGBTQ+ demonstrations against police brutality in the US. Learn More Employment Discrimination It wasn't until 2021 that the LGBTQ+ community was given federal protections against employment discrimination. Learn More Pan Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Pansexual Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Pansexual Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Pansexual Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Pansexual Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Pansexual Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Pansexual Price $45.50 1 2 3

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