Learn all the ins and outs of gender identity and sexuality. < Return to Learn Gender & Sexuality Perfect just the way you are Learn all the ins and outs of gender identity and sexuality Sexuality Sexual Orientation Basics Learn all about sexuality. Learn More Bisexuality Attraction to more than one gender—it's that simple! Learn More Lesbian Women who love women, or is there more to it? Learn More Pansexuality Attraction to all gender or regardless of gender. Learn More Gay Same-gender attraction. Learn More Asexuality and Aromanticism Little to no sexual or romantic attraction. Learn More Gender Sex Vs Gender Sex and gender are very different things, and here's why. Learn More Gender Norms Learn about societal expectations of gender. Learn More Myths About Gender-Affirming Care We break down common and just plain inaccurate myths. Learn More Transgender When your gender doesn't align with the one you were assigned at birth. Learn More Pronouns 101 What's a pronoun? Learn that and more. Learn More Outdated Trans Terms Things you should not say to or call trans folx. Learn More Non-Binary Gender identities that don't fit into the boxes of male or female. Learn More Gender-Affirming Care Learn about both medical and non-medical forms. Learn More Coming Out Coming Out Tips Coming out can be scary, but we've got you covered. Learn More The Importance of Being Out and Proud Live and love our authentic selves! Learn More How to Respond to Someone Coming Out Tips for respectfully responding to someone's coming out. Learn More Respecting LGBTQ+ Boundaries It's important not to diminish someone's coming out journey. Learn More Where to Find Support Resources to remind you that you're not alone. Learn More

Do you love design? Are you great at public speaking? Maybe your passion is educating others. Whatever it is, there's a place in PRISM for everyone. < Return to Get Involved Task Forces The six pillars of our initiatives PRISM's work takes place in six task forces. Click any of them below to learn more and see how you can get involved! Research Surveys, data collection, and data analysis Outreach Events, awareness, connection-building Content Creation Content writing, graphic design, videography Fundraising Grant writing, fundraisers, promotions BIPOC Advocates Accountability, advocacy, racial justice Policy Grassroots activism at every level of politics

< Back to School Policy Hub Outdated Trans Terms Transgender terminology and how it was used as little as a decade ago can now be considered outdated, misinformed, or just plain offensive. That’s why it’s important to stay educated on how certain words and phrases affect different parts of the LGBTQ+ community. You may think this isn't a big deal — they're just words, right? But remember, words have power! Those trying to tell you otherwise are people who probably don't have to worry about words like these being used against them. Here's what not to say: Transgender as a noun/verb Be mindful that using transgender as a noun or verb is often used as a means to dehumanize trans folx. Instead, transgender should only used as an adjective (e.g., trans woman or trans man) Wrong "There are a lot of transgenders on the team." "Is she a transgender?" "He transgendered last year." Right "There are a lot of transgender people on the team." "Is she a trans woman?" "He transitioned last year." "Sex Change" Using “sex change” or “sex reassignment surgery” implies that someone who is trans must have surgery in order to transition properly. Instead, talk about it in terms of “gender-affirming” surgery . By the way, don’t outright ask a trans person if they have undergone surgery. It’s a private matter and should be treated with dignity. "Transvestite" “Transvestite” is an old term that often misrepresents trans people. Historically, it most commonly refers to cisgender men who dress in feminine clothing. Today, that community prefers the term “cross-dresser” and finds “transvestite” to be insulting. Defamatory terms, including “tranny” and “she-male” are highly inappropriate slurs, used to discriminate against and dehumanize trans people. "Transsexual" “Transsexual” is a term used to describe a transgender person who has undergone gender-affirming medical procedures. However, “transsexual” is not an inclusive umbrella term like “transgender” is, as it only describes a trans person who has undergone a surgical procedure to transition. Furthermore, it emphasizes "sex," or a person's genitals. But being trans is about gender, not sex, so "transgender" is far more appropriate. Here's the bottom line: Although some of the terminology mentioned may not be considered offensive to all trans people, it is important to understand the potential impact words may have. Discrimination is not defined by the intent of the speaker, but by the effect it has on the listener. Change begins with you, and adapting your language is the first step to bringing about that change.

< Back to School Policy Hub Stonewall Riots Context: Criminalization of Gay Bars The Stonewall Riots Legacy Context: Criminalization of Gay Bars The Stonewall Riots were a violent uprising in 1969 speaking out against police brutality following a raid of the Stonewall Inn. The Stonewall Inn was a popular gay bar run by the Mafia in Greenwich Village of New York City. During the 1960s, however, same-sex relations were illegal in many places, including New York City. As such, the New York State Liquor Authority sanctioned frequent police raids of known gay bars, claiming that the gathering of homosexual individuals was “disorderly.” While these restrictions were overturned in 1966, police harassment of gay bars continued until much later, particularly as many operated without a liquor license due to their being owned by the Mafia. The Stonewall Riots A crowd of protesters confronting the police during the Stonewall Riots. On the morning of June 28th, 1969, rather than dispersing during the police raid that occurred, a violent crowd formed , and the Stonewall Riots began. The difference between this particular police raid and previous instances was that it came without warning and led to the NYPD roughly shoving both patrons and employees alike into police vehicles to be arrested. Starting with one woman shouting, “Why don’t you guys do something!” things quickly escalated as a crowd of hundreds formed, throwing bottles, pennies, and rocks at the police. Although it is not known for sure, it is alleged that the first brick was thrown by Marsha P. Johnson , an outspoken and notable activist for LGBTQ+ rights. The rioting and protesting continued for six continuous days, and the uprising is known as one of the first major protests bringing new attention to the movement for equal rights for LGBTQ+ people. Legacy The Stonewall Inn in 2019 (Image Source: Antigng/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY SA ) The Stonewall Riots, also known as the Stonewall uprising, was an important event in sparking new fervor for the LGBTQ+ rights movement. As a result of the riots, various new LGBTQ+ rights groups were begun, such as the Gay Liberation Front. Although the Stonewall riots did not begin the LGBTQ+ rights movement, they were crucial to bringing new attention to LGBTQ+ activism and generating newfound support for the movement. For information about LGBTQ+ activism preceding the Stonewall Riots, visit our article on the Black Cat Protests .

< Return to Open Positions Writer We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Writer 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 Part of our work is creating educational resources for LGBTQ+ youth and queer people of color. Writers take the necessary information and compose easily understood articles, social media captions, and other forms of written work. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay : $100 Standard Post $50 Rewrite Post $75 Script $125 Rush Post $100 Rush Script Responsibilities : Research and gather information about proposed topics Convey educational topics in a well-formatted, easy-to-read manner Write a total of four social media captions or two articles per month Complete tasks in a timely manner Maintain accuracy of information provided, both through peer-editing and continuous review of published resources. While not required, it is preferred that Writers have prior exposure to information regarding one or more of the following : Sexual health LGBT issues Racial topics Black history/culture LatinX history/culture Asian history/culture LGBT history PRISM pays a specified amount for each piece created, which may vary from project to project. 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

< Return to STI Clinic Search CAN Community Health - Fort Lauderdale Call: (754) 701-6920 Website: https://www.cancommunityhealth.org/ft-lauderdale/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 315 SE 14th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tues: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Wed: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Thurs: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis Hepatitis C

In 2021, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) recognized October as LGBTQ History Month for the first time within our schools. But in 2022 and 2023, the school board voted against renewing that recognition after intimidation from alt-right hate groups and our state government. In 2021, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) recognized October as LGBTQ History Month for the first time within our schools. But for the past three years, the school board voted against renewing that recognition after intimidation from alt-right hate groups and our state government. LGBTQ+ history is American history because LGBTQ+ Americans are Americans. LGBTQ-inclusive education benefits all students. It's time to teach OUR history. It's time to school the school board. We're flooding MDCPS's public hearing with the same stories of our rich LGBTQ+ history that they've deprived of students in our schools. Tune in, show support, and learn from the people of Miami as they detail the shoulders we stand on. RSVP to learn how to watch online or sign up to speak yourself! SIGN UP Watch It Live

< Return to Open Positions Social Media Manager (Instagram) We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Social Media Manager (Instagram) 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 PRISM relies on the dedicated contributions of volunteers to further its initiatives. PRISM conducts many initiatives digitally, which makes building a solid brand image and marketing extremely important. Social Media Managers oversee specific social media platforms utilized by PRISM. Social Media Managers do not receive a paycheck, but they do receive the satisfaction that they are helping an organization for LGBT youth. There is potential for a paid position in the future. Social Media Managers have the following responsibilities: Develop and organize social media campaigns and posts Ensure that social media posts are uploaded in a timely manner through communicating with Visual Design Managers and Social Media Drafters Coordinate paid promotions and advertisements on social media platforms Applicants must have experience with one or more of the following: Social Media coordination Market analysis Instagram's business and fundraising tools LGBT issues Sexual health/Public health Gender and sexuality Youth services Next

< Back to School Policy Hub STI Basics What is an STI? STI vs STD Getting Tested Prevention What is an STI? STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are pathogens transmitted primarily through sexual contact. While it varies depending on the specific STI, this can include anal, vaginal, or oral sex. STI vs STD You may notice that PRISM uses the term STI instead of the more commonly used term, STD. This isn’t just our preference: there are important reasons for this. STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, while STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. One of the main differences between infections and diseases is that an infection is an actual pathogen (like a virus or bacteria) entering your body, whereas a disease disrupts your body’s normal functions (i.e., symptoms). All STDs start as STIs. If and when an infected person develops symptoms, it is considered an STD. For instance, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is an STI. When left untreated, you can develop AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), which is characterized by an extremely suppressed immune system. Not all STIs show symptoms. STIs that do show symptoms may take months or even years to do so. For example, part of why chlamydia is the most common STI in the United States is that it often doesn’t show symptoms. The word “disease” is also stigmatizing. PRISM is very deliberate about how we discuss STIs: they are preventable, easily treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. Contrary to popular belief, fear does not aid in prevention; it just makes it harder for us to talk about safe sex. Getting Tested One of the most important parts of maintaining your sexual health is getting tested regularly. If you've had unprotected sex (sex without using a condom, dental dam, or another barrier method), you could be at risk of contracting an STI. Some STIs don't cause symptoms right away (or at all), and some common symptoms of STDs (bumps around your genitals, vaginal/penile discharge, itching, or pain in your genitals) can have other causes completely unrelated to sexual encounters. Click here to find a local testing center. Prevention The most effective protection against STIs is abstinence. Abstinence is the practice of not having sex. If you don't have sex, you limit your exposure to STIs. However, this isn't the best solution for many people. If you plan on having sex, wear protection. Condoms and dental dams are extremely effective in preventing STIs. If you're in an at-risk group for HIV, such as MSM (men who have sex with men), consider taking PrEP. Find more information about HIV here. References Sabour, J. (2022, February 25). The Difference Between STD and STI. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/std-vs-sti-5214421 . HIV.gov. (2021, April 8). What are HIV and AIDS? HIV.gov. https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-aids/what-are-hiv-and-aids . What is Chlamydia?: Causes of Chlamydia Infection . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/chlamydia . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance 2019 . U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2019/overview.htm#Chlamydia . Condoms . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/condom . Internal Condoms | Female Condoms . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/internal-condom .

< Back to School Policy Hub Dental Dams Dental dams are thin sheets placed over the vagina or anus during oral sex to protect against STIs. Dental dams are typically made of latex, but those with latex allergies can opt for polyurethane condoms. Condoms and dental dams are the only barrier methods that can prevent STIs. When used properly, dental dams are highly effective in protecting you from STIs. Always Use Lube Many dental dams come pre-lubricated. However, ALWAYS use extra lubricant to prevent breakage. Make sure to use water or silicone-based lube. Oil-based products will cause the dental dam to break. How to Use a Dental Dam Diagram of how to use a dental dam (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc / Amelia St. Peter) Check the expiration date on the package. Expired dental dams are not effective in preventing STIs. Carefully open the package and remove the dental dam. Check to make sure there are no tears or defects in the dental dam. Place the dental dam over the opening of the vagina or anus After oral sex, remove the dental dam and throw it away. Turning a Condom into a Dental Dam Diagram of how to make a dental dam from a condom (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc / Amelia St. Peter) Check the expiration date on the package. Expired condoms are not effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs. Check to make sure there are no tears or defects in the condom. Carefully open the package and remove the condom. Cut the tip and bottom off of the condom. Cut down the side of the condom. Place the condom over the opening of the vagina or anus After oral sex, remove the condom and throw it away. Safety Practices Don't stretch a dental dam, as this can cause the dental dam to tear. NEVER reuse a dental dam; This includes flipping the dental dam over to use the other side Dental dams are not effective after use

< Back to School Policy Hub MDCPS Reaffirms the Importance of Diversity [Miami, FL] – On Wednesday, the Miami Dade School Board approved Board Member Dr.Steve Gallon III's amendment to an extremely controversial agenda item that many feared would prohibit pride flags and flags from other countries. This amendment ensures that flags representing federally-protected classes can still be displayed. This reaffirms what many members of our community made clear at the board meeting today: that our students, teachers, and parents deserve to feel seen and represented throughout the year, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

< Back to School Policy Hub Matthew Shepard Caution : The content of this post describes violence and homophobia. Who Was Matthew Shepard? Life and Death Legacy Who Was Matthew Shepard? Grayscale photograph of Matthew Shepard (Source: Gina van Hoof) Matthew Shepard was a young, gay American from Wyoming whose tragic death sparked outrage across the country and led to many improvements in hate crime legislation. Life and Death Shepard was a political science major at the University of Wyoming. Often described as being kind and empathetic, Shepard cared deeply about equality, diversity, and respecting others' beliefs. His mother reported that when Shepard was in high school, he was attacked and sexually assaulted during a trip to Morocco. This, she said, began a steady decline in his mental health as he grew increasingly withdrawn and depressed. By the time he was in college, Shepard struggled with drug abuse and suicidal ideation. Matthew Shepard (Source: Gina van Hoof, Matthew Shepard Foundation) Shepard's Murder On the night of October 6, 1998, Shepard was approached by Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson at a bar in Laramie. The two offered to give Shepard a ride home, but instead drove him to a remote rural area and proceeded to rob, beat, and torture him, tying him to a fence and leaving him for dead. The next morning, he was found unconscious by a cyclist and taken to the hospital. Shepard died just six days later. Hate Crime Testimonies at the time confirmed that McKinney's actions had been fueled by homophobia; the pair identified Shepard as a target for robbery, pretended to be gay to lure him in, and then McKinney panicked and attacked when Shepard placed a hand on his knee. In contrast, Henderson's lawyer denied that Shepard's sexuality had anything to do with the murder. Legacy Shepard’s tragic passing has led to many improvements in hate crime legislation. Legislation started in the Wyoming House Of Representatives, continued through President Bill Clinton, and was finalized with President Barack Obama on October 28th, 2009, making discrimination towards members of the LGBTQ+ community a hate crime. On October 26, 2018, a little over 20 years after his death, Matthew Shepard’s ashes were interred at the crypt of the Washington National Cathedral, the first interment there since Hellen Keller in 1968. While he is no longer with us, Matthew’s name lives on through the Matthew Shepard Foundation , an LGBTQ+ non-profit organization in Casper, Wyoming, as well as a play called “The Laramie Project." Reference Bindel, Julie (October 25, 2014). "The truth behind America's most famous gay-hate murder" . The Guardian . Brooke, James (November 21, 1998). "Witnesses Trace Brutal Killing of Gay Student" . The New York Times .