< Back to School Policy Hub Gender Expression in Asian Cultures Asian and Pacific Islander (API) identities add a unique layer to the gender identity and expression of queer people. Asia has a rich, diverse, and vibrant history of queerness, particularly regarding life outside of the gender binary. Japan China Indonesia India Philippines Japan Then Samurai and Wakashu by Miyagawa Isshō, early 18th century (Source: JSTOR) During Japan's Edo period, gender roles encompassed a “third gender:” the Wakashu . Broadly speaking, Wakashu were born-male youths transitioning between childhood and adulthood. However, their role went beyond a transitory phase - they had their own unique rules, conventions, and styles, and occupied their own societal niche. The transitory nature of being a Wakashu was intertwined with sexuality; Wakashu were socially free from the responsibilities of adulthood but were considered sexually mature. As such, they had sex with both males and females, with social rules dictating them taking a more dominant role with women and a submissive one with men. With the rise of Christian/Victorian ethics from exposure to Western ideals during the Meiji period, the gender binary became more strictly defined, and Wakashu were ridiculed, condemned, or ignored — effectively erasing their societal role. Now In Japan today, there is a resurgence of gender expression outside traditional norms. In the Harajuku district of Tokyo, the “jendaresu-kei”, or genderless style, has gained popularity. There is still a long way to go regarding legislation for individuals who don’t conform to the gender binary. Japan's laws for changing your legal gender , for example, are regressive and invasive and operate under the idea that being transgender is a mental illness. China Then The blurring of the gender binary has a foothold in traditional Chinese opera. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, restrictive gender norms forced opera troupes to be separated by gender, so cross-dressing was necessary to fill gaps in roles. Male actors specializing in playing females were referred to as “nandan”, and were trained to aspire to a feminine ideal. They not only dressed in traditionally feminine clothing, but also were expected to take on the actions, habits, and mindset of a woman both on- and off-stage, occasionally as singing waiters and courtesans . Though this was generally accepted in entertainment, Qing laws criminalized individuals assigned male at birth who lived their lives as women, which could suppress their gender presentation. Renown nanda Mei Lanfang performing Peking Opera (Source: gb.ci.cn) Now Today, for individuals with non-conforming gender identities and expressions, there is no comprehensive anti-discrimination policy, especially one that specifically mentions transgender individuals . Of social institutions, families have the lowest degree of acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals , but there is limited research on public attitudes specifically towards transgender acceptance in China. However, there is growing visibility of transgender individuals , such as Jin Xing, an openly transgender woman, who is one of the most popular talk show hosts in China, and younger generations are growing more accepting. Indonesia Then Indonesia’s pre-colonial era has long been accommodating towards gender diversity. One of the more populous ethnic groups, the Bugis people in South Sulawesi, recognize five genders: man ( oroane ), woman ( makkunrai ), male woman ( calabai ), female man ( calalai ) and androgynous priest ( bissu ). Another ethnic group, the Torajan people, recognize a third gender, or to burake tambolang . To burake tambolang played an important role in spiritual tradition, and people would admire and honor a village with one . However, beginning in the 1950s, bissu and calabi individuals faced violent persecution. Engel, center front, a bissu in the town of Bone in South Sulawesi (Source: Al Jazeera) Now Today, people can legally change their gender ; however, there is no option to change your legal gender to a third gender. Additionally, legal gender changes can be subject to medical opinion , proof of gender reassignment surgery, and family testimony. Additionally, organizations like Latar Nusa are pushing for greater acceptance of bissu and calabi. India Then In Hindu, epic texts like Ramayana and Mahabharata feature multiple heroic characters : Shikhandi, (a key figure in the war in Mahabharata), Chitrangada (whose gender changes through the course of the story), and Vishnu (a god in his female form of Mohini), have presented their gender in fluid ways. Hijras, a third gender, also had recognized roles in ancient India. Mughal emperors were generous patrons of them. Hijras are treated with both fear and respect due to their cultural role in Hindu religious ceremonies; a hijra’s blessings would confer fertility, prosperity, and long life on a baby. A hijra’s curse is also taken seriously, so families often welcome hijras in and pay for their services. With the rise of colonialism and Victorian ethics, hijra became villainized. A group of Hijra in Bangladesh (Source: USAID Bangladesh) Now Today, hijra are marginalized in Indian society, though there has been some progress made. In 2014 , the landmark Indian Supreme Court case National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) v. Union of India established the legal recognition of the “third gender.” However, the verdict lumps in hijra and transgender individuals, who aren’t necessarily of the same identity. India also has a 2016 transgender bill; however, this bill doesn’t allow an individual to self-identify as trans without medical confirmation . Philippines Then The Tansug people of the Southern Philippines believed in a third gender called bakla , a Tagalog sexual/gender category that refers to individuals assigned male at birth who exhibit or are suspected of exhibiting sexual and gender non-normative behavior. They can be considered a Filipino “third gender.” Oftentimes, they served as babalayan , or shamans, who were either women or effeminate men called bayog (Tagalog) or asog (Visayan). They had important roles as the healers of both natural and spiritual illness, assisted in rituals for prayer, birth, and death, and overall, were respected members of the community who were held on the same level as the ruling class. Bakla Protester During Pride March (Source: Arvinjaygaa - Own work) Now Today, trans Filipinos face barriers legally in accessing social institutions like education and healthcare and in seeking justice. Though no national laws exist prohibiting cross-gender behavior, individuals still may be turned away from establishments without facing recourse. Resources Aggleton, P. (2006). Men who sell sex international perspectives on male prostitution and HIV/AIDS . Taylor and Francis. Anderson, M. (2016, August 15). Beyond binary: Five genders of the bugis . Akkadium College. https://learn.akkadium.com/beyond-binary-five-genders-of-the-bugis/ Bohnke, C. (2021, December 22). The disappearance of japan’s “third gender” - JSTOR daily . The Disappearance of Japan’s “Third Gender.” https://daily.jstor.org/the-disappearance-of-japans-third-gender/ Cornell, T. (2019, August 20). Nandan: The Yin & Yang of Chinese cross-gender performers > culturs - lifestyle media for cross-cultural Identity . CULTURS. https://www.cultursmag.com/nandan/ Hijras and the legacy of British colonial rule in India . Engenderings. (2019, June 17). https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/gender/2019/06/17/hijras-and-the-legacy-of-british-colonial-rule-in-india/ Hinduism Case Study. (2018). The third gender and Hijras . Religion and Public Life at Harvard Divinity School. https://rpl.hds.harvard.edu/religion-context/case-studies/gender/third-gender-and-hijras The human rights situation of transgender people in the Philippines Submission of the Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP) to the 13th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review . . (n.d.). https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/lib-docs/HRBodies/UPR/Documents/session13/PH/JS1_UPR_PHL_S13_2012_JointSubmission1_E.pdf Knight, K. (2023, March 28). “A really high hurdle.” Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/03/20/really-high-hurdle/japans-abusive-transgender-legal-recognition-process Luhur, W., Brown, T., Liu, M., & Shaw, A. (2021, June). Public opinion - williams institute . Williams Institute. https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/Public-Opinion-Trans-Mexico-English-Dec-2020.pdf Nooy-Palm, H. (1979). The sa’dan toraja: A study of their social life and religion . Oxis. https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/3BBC444821210944F0E9579A28009215/S0041977X00105014a.pdf/hetty_nooypalm_the_sadan_toraja_a_study_of_their_social_life_and_religion_vol_i_organization_symbols_and_beliefs_verhandelingen_van_het_koninklijk_instituut_voor_taal_land_en_volkenkunde_87_xii_338_pp_16_plates_the_hague_martinus_nijhoff_1979.pdf Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. (2021, April 8). Ang babaylan nga nahimong bayot. Babaylan. https://smithsonianapa.org/babaylan/#:~:text=(The%20healer),through%20herbs%2C%20remedies%20and%20antidotes. Stables, D. (2022, February 25). Asia’s isle of five separate genders . BBC Travel. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210411-asias-isle-of-five-separate-genders Stanford The Clayman Institute for Gender Research. (2022, July 27). The persecution of M-F crossing in Imperial China . The Clayman Institute for Gender Research. https://gender.stanford.edu/news/persecution-m-f-crossing-imperial-china Stonewall. (2021, July 1). Global workplace briefings . Stonewall. https://www.stonewall.org.uk/global-workplace-briefings Tian, C. (2018, August 29). What Chinese opera can teach us about gender . Sixth Tone. https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1002838 Tiwari, A., & Pal, K. (2020). Journey of Gender Identity in India from Mythology to the Third Gender. Palarch’s Journal Of Archaeology Of Egypt/Egyptology , 17 (6), 20–28. UNDP and China Women’s University. (2018). Legal gender recognition in China - United Nations Development Programme. https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/asia_pacific_rbap/UNDP-CH-Legal-gender-recognition---China-180805.pdf Universal Periodic Review. (2017). Joint Submission of the Civic Society Organisations on the Situation of LGBTIQ Persons in the Philippines . The ASEAN SOGIE Caucus - the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus. https://aseansogiecaucus.org/images/resources/upr-reports/Philippines/Philippines-UPR-JointReport-3rdCycle.pdf Wemer, D. (2020, December 22). India’s hijras find themselves further marginalized amid the pandemic . Atlantic Council. https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/indias-hijras-find-themselves-further-marginalized-amid-the-pandemic/ Wu, G. (2016). Mustache as resistance: Representation and reception of Mei Lanfang’s masculinity. TDR/The Drama Review , 60 (2), 122–138. https://doi.org/10.1162/dram_a_00551

< Return to Open Positions Research Director We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Research 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 PRISM relies on the dedicated contributions of volunteers to further its initiatives. The Research Director oversees our Research Task Force, which conducts internal and external surveying and data collection and coordinates non-educational STI prevention programs. Currently, this is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get : An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBT community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities: Develop and oversee the operations of the Research Task Force (STI Clinic Search, STI Clinic Vetting Program, surveying, data analysis, etc.) Coordinate community service logs, payroll, and attendance logs Assist in securing grant funding for the Research Task Force by searching and applying for grants Preferred qualifications : Experience with data analysis and surveying Experience with STI prevention or public health services Experience working with research involving human beings Volunteer and staff management experience Prior research regarding nonprofit program efficacy or public health services Grant writing 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 Malcolm X Who was Malcolm X? Early Life Sexuality Civil Rights Movement Death and Legacy Who was Malcolm X? Malcolm X in 1964: (Image Source: Library of Congress) Malcolm X was an American Muslim minister who became popular during the civil rights movement in the 1960s for his “By all means necessary” approach to gaining freedom and justice for African Americans. After facing many hardships and spending years in prison, Malcolm X turned his life around upon converting to Islam and began advocating for black unity and the use of self-defense to achieve justice for African Americans once he regained his freedom. He founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity to further fight for his ideas that racism was the greatest enemy of African Americans. Early Life Malcolm X's 1944 mugshot. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) Malcolm X was born in 1925 in Omaha, Nebraska, an area with intense discrimination and violence against Black people during that time. He was no stranger to hardship, with his father being murdered in 1931 and his mother being institutionalized in 1939. After living with a white adoptive family and facing adversity at school due to his race, Malcolm moved in with his sister in Boston. There, he saw differing living conditions between middle-class and lower-class black people and worked as an intermediary for drugs, alcohol, and prostitution from age 16. Upon moving to New York later on, Malcolm started selling and doing drugs and betting, and was eventually arrested when he moved back to Boston. Malcolm’s life transformed in prison, starting with his conversion to Islam under the Nation of Islam, which he left a few years after joining. After being released on parole and meeting the Nation of Islam’s leader, Elijah Muhammad, he started his advocacy for black unity and militancy, for which he became famous. Sexuality Malcolm X didn’t outwardly identify as or come out as bisexual in his lifetime; the little known about his identity as a bisexual man is in his work servicing men and from third-person accounts. From age 20, Malcolm worked servicing rich white men for pay, which he is said to have bragged about and enjoyed to an extent. According to a past schoolmate, Malcolm used to experiment with other boys when he was young and boasted about these experiences, and also often spent nights with a “gay transvestite named Willie Mae.” Role in the Civil Rights Movement Malcolm X speaking to members of the African-American Students Foundation in 1959. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) As an important influence during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, Malcolm’s approaches to achieving justice for African Americans differed from the more common pacifist approaches proposed by others like Martin Luther King Jr. However, he fought for a common goal of ending racism and fighting for justice for African Americans. He further fought to make a difference by creating the Organization of Afro-American Unity, which called for a connection between African Americans and African heritage and promoted the self-determination of African Americans. His organization also focused greatly on education to counteract the still-present effects of slavery. Death and Legacy Malcolm X with Martin Luther King Jr. (Image Source: Marion S. Trikosko, United States Library of Congress's Prints and Photographs division) On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X was lecturing at Harlem’s Audubon Ballroom about his organization after weeks of attempts to end his life by whom he suspected were members of the Nation of Islam. While on stage, he was shot by three men whose identities have been controversial since the assassination. Although he was taken to the hospital, the dozen or so bullets caused his heart to fail several times until he was eventually declared dead. His legacy and admiration for him have grown since his assassination because of his passion for fighting oppression and willingness to fight for the freedom of African-Americans through any means necessary. Since his assassination and the release of his autobiography, he gained more respect than he had during his time alive, and his ideas are still relevant to this day. References Burnett, L. (2019, August 1). Organization of AFRO-AMERICAN unity (OAAU) 1965 . https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/organization-afro-american-unity-oaau-1965/. Malcolm X Assassinated . (2009, November 24). https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/malcolm-x-assassinated . Ott, T. (2021, January 13). The assassination of Malcolm X . https://www.biography.com/news/malcolm-x-assassination . Szymanski, M. (2015, March 1). Malcolm X's BISEXUALITY . https://bi.org/en/articles/malcolm-xs-bisexuality . Worland, J. (2015, February 20). Malcolm X assassination ANNIVERSARY: His legacy after 50 years . https://time.com/3715164/50-years-malcolm-x/ . X., M., Haley, A., Shabazz, A., Handler, M. S., & Davis, O. (2015). The Autobiography of Malcolm X . Ballantine Books.

< Back to School Policy Hub Pulse Shooting Content Warning: This article discusses a deeply traumatic event. Reader discretion is advised. June 12th, 2016, was a devastating day for the LGBTQ+ community after a tragic shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, FL. Omar Mateen killed 49 people and injured 53 more at the Orlando club. The Pulse nightclub attack remains the second deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. Timeline Pulse was one of the most popular gay clubs in the city, and that Saturday night also happened to be Latin night. 2:02 a.m. Bulletholes in the nightclub the day after the shooting.. (Image Source: Ed Burns/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 ) Early in the morning, the police received reports of shots fired at the club. An off-duty officer attempted to restrain Mateen, but he was unsuccessful and the shooter was able to make his way into the club. Minutes later, police arrived at the scene and exchanged gunfire with the shooter. 2:09 a.m. An alarming post was made on Pulse's Facebook page, stating for “everyone [to] get out of Pulse and keep running.” Unfortunately, this chilling post was not the reality for many of the patrons in the club who became caught in the middle of gunshots. Hours later people were still being held hostage in the club. 5:00 a.m. SWAT teams began breaking down the back wall of the club to help victims escape. They did this through a controlled explosion in order to safely but quickly provide a route to safety for those inside. Eventually, many patrons, including the shooter himself, emerged from the building. Pulse night-club was located on Orange Ave. in Orlando FL. The image above depicts the layout of the club. Manteen entered the club and made his way to the dance floor. He continued around the back of the club and made his way to the restrooms. When police arrived, the wall that was broken down was the one leading to the restroom. (Image Source: Orlando City Planning Division blueprints) 5:15 a.m. Upon Manteen’s exit, a shootout occurred between him and the police, ultimately resulting in his death. Legacy This direct attack on LGBTQ+ and Latinx people continues to cause grief to this day and serves as a constant reminder of the hate and discrimination still faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Five years after the shooting, community members continue to come together at Pulse to celebrate and mourn those who lost their lives on June 12, 2016. Vigils are held and it is a time to advocate for those who were victims of homophobia and gun violence on that tragic night. (Image Source: Walter, FLICKR) LGBTQ + mental health is at a heightened risk following Florida's decision to veto funding and cut approximately “$900,000 in funding for state programs geared toward serving the LGBTQ+ population, including one that provides mental health programs to survivors of the Pulse nightclub shooting..." This decision, on the 2nd day of Pride and just before the 5th anniversary of the Pulse shooting, is a tell-tale sign of the work that needs to continue to be done to support LGBTQ+ communities. References Kelley, A. (2021, June 3). Florida Gov DeSantis vetoes mental health funding for Pulse shooting survivors . TheHill. https://thehill.com/changing-america/respect/diversity-inclusion/556703-florida-gov-desantis-vetoes-mental-health Zambelich, A., & Hurt, A. (2016, June 26). 3 Hours In Orlando: Piecing Together An Attack And Its Aftermath . NPR. https://www.npr.org/2016/06/16/482322488/orlando-shooting-what-happened-update

< 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 HIV & AIDS What are HIV and AIDS? How It's Spread Getting Tested Testing Positive Prevention What are HIV and AIDS? HIV and AIDS are NOT the same thing. HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a sexually transmitted infection that attacks and weakens your immune system. AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, is a disease caused by HIV that makes it extremely hard for your body to fight off infections. HIV has no cure. Once someone gets HIV, they've got it for good. However, there are treatments that can reduce your viral load to the point where you cannot give it to someone else. 1.2 MILLION Americans have HIV. There are about 34,800 new cases reported every year. While HIV disproportionately affects gay and bisexual men, anyone can get HIV, regardless of age, sex, race, or sexual orientation. How It's Spread HIV is carried in semen, blood, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. You can get it by having vaginal or anal sex or by sharing needles or syringes. HIV isn't spread through saliva, and you can't get it just by kissing or touching someone who is HIV-positive. If you think you've been exposed to HIV, you can take PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, within 72 hours to lower your chances of contracting it. Getting Tested Testing for HIV is generally simple and painless. HIV testing usually involves either a cheek swab or drawing blood. When you contract HIV, your body produces antibodies to fight against the virus. An antibody test, which is the most common, looks for these antibodies in the blood. Generally, it can take 18 to 90 days for your body to make these antibodies. This means that for this period, your test results can come back negative, even if you have HIV. This is known as the window period. NATs (Nucleic Acid Tests) only have a 10 to 33 day window period and involve drawing blood from a vein to look for the virus itself. However, these tests are extremely expensive and only used in high-risk situations. Some tests, called rapid HIV tests, can give you results in 30 minutes or less. Almost all rapid HIV tests are antibody tests. These generally involve either a cheek swab or drawing blood through a finger prick. You can also get an at-home rapid HIV test called OraQuick, which can be purchased at your local pharmacy or online . Others can take several days or weeks if samples need to be sent to a lab. It's important to get tested regularly. If you're sexually active or share needles for drug use, piercings, or tattoos, get tested. It can take up to 10 years to develop AIDS, so most people who have HIV don't know it until they get tested. Seriously. AIDS is a BIG problem, especially among LGBTQ+ folk. So, do you and your partner a HUGE favor and put your minds at ease. Click here to find a local testing center . Testing Positive So, your results came back positive. The first thing to remember is that this is nothing to be ashamed of. If you or your partner have HIV, it does not necessarily mean anyone cheated. Like we said, most people who contract HIV don't know they have it until years later. How do I get rid of it? If you think you've been exposed to HIV, you can take PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis , within 72 hours to lower your chances of contracting it. Unfortunately, HIV can't be cured. However, your doctor can prescribe antiretroviral medications that can lower the amount of the virus in your body and slow the damage it does to your immune system. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can lower your viral load to a point where it doesn't show up on standard tests. At this point, it is considered "undetectable," meaning that you can't spread HIV to sexual partners. "Undetectable" doesn't mean cured. Even if your viral load becomes undetectable, it can still return to detectable levels if you stop treatment, meaning you can spread it to your partner(s) again. It is important to maintain treatment if you contract HIV. Prevention Wear protection. The easiest way to prevent the spread of HIV is by wearing protection. Barrier methods like condoms and dental dams are 90-95% effective in protecting you from HIV. Consider taking PrEP. PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis , is a daily pill that can prevent HIV. It's especially useful for MSM (men who have sex with men) since they make up the biggest group of HIV cases in the United States. If you think you've been exposed to HIV, you can take PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, within 72 hours to lower your chances of contracting it. Use clean needles. Don't share needles when shooting drugs or getting tattoos or piercings. References HIV.gov (2021, June 2). U.S. Statistics . HIV.gov. https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/data-and-trends/statistics . 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 . HIV.gov. (2021, April 8). HIV Testing Overview . HIV.gov. https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/hiv-testing/learn-about-hiv-testing/hiv-testing-overview . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, May 13). Types of HIV Tests . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-testing/test-types.html . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, May 20). Treatment . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/livingwithhiv/treatment.html . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, May 20). Opportunistic Infections . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/livingwithhiv/opportunisticinfections.html . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, July 16). HIV Self-Testing . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-testing/hiv-self-tests.html .

< Back to School Policy Hub How to Respond to Someone Coming Out What is "coming out"? “Coming Out” is the act of disclosing one’s own sexuality or gender identity to someone. Coming out is different for everyone. Some people come out as soon as they come to a realization about their sexuality or gender identity, while others come out to people slowly, one by one. Read on to find out the best way to handle someone coming out to you. How do I respond to someone coming out? Whether the person coming out is a distant acquaintance or your child, the best way to respond is with respect. We know that learning about this new facet of someone's life can be jarring, especially if you're extremely close to them. However, it's important to acknowledge this information with an open and supportive mindset. Show support While your first instinct may be a shock, understand that the person coming out to you more likely than not put forth a lot of courage to divulge their sexuality or gender identity to you. What's most important is that you welcome their honesty and fulfillment with open arms. Educate yourself, but don't rely on them to do it for you While an eagerness to learn about their experiences or feelings may be flattering, it is not this person's responsibility to give you more information than was offered. It's alright to express curiosity, but don't force them to answer questions they're not comfortable with talking about. You can find all sorts of information about gender and sexuality here . Ask how you can help LGBTQ+ youth and individuals face a whole host of problems beyond their peers. It's important to ask the person coming out to you how you can help them. What should I NOT say? "Why didn't you tell me?" While you may feel betrayed or offended that this person waited until they did to tell you, understand that each person goes about coming out differently. In fact, many people come out to those they care about most later on in life because they are worried about the reaction those people will have and how they will be perceived. No one is entitled to information on someone's gender or sexuality, so simply appreciate that they included you in their coming out journey, wherever they may be in it. "I knew it!" This may seem like a supportive statement, but this is an extremely disrespectful thing for LGBTQ+ people to hear. Many queer youths spend years hiding their sexuality or gender identity out of fear, and pointing out that you "called it" or "knew it the whole time" isn't an accomplishment to brag about. "It's just a phase." Everyone explores their sexuality at different paces and with different experiences. Because of this, sexuality and gender can be fluid and shift. However, trivializing this journey and forcing sexuality onto someone is extremely detrimental. What's most important is that you are supportive, respectful, and understanding of the situation.

< Back to School Policy Hub Affirmed Names and Pronouns New year, new schedule, new... school policies to decode? The start of the school year is stressful enough without deciphering confusing district policy. At PRISM, we believe every student deserves to be seen as their authentic self, and it starts with navigating name and pronoun changes smoothly. We’ve put together a guide for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools, with all the forms, policies, and even a ready-to-send email template – because supporting students shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. What’s the same in all districts? According to state law, schools cannot force teachers or students to use someone’s affirmed pronouns. However, teachers still have the option to use a student’s affirmed pronouns. Parents must give permission for a student to use a different name at school (except Miami-Dade students over the age of 18). Affirmed names can be used in school systems and non-legal documents after written consent is given by a parent or legal guardian. Legal names and gender stay the same unless changed by a court order or updated birth certificate. What’s different between districts? Miami-Dade County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Students over 18 can request changes without parent permission. Fill out Form FM5626 for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Broward County Teachers can use a student’s affirmed name and pronouns, but only if a parent or legal guardian gives written permission. Unlike other districts, there’s no explicitly stated extra FERPA protection. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. For names: Broward Emergency Contact Card (Must be completed annually) For pronouns: PreK-12 Preferred Title Title and Pronoun Request Form Palm Beach County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. Fill out Palm Beach Form PBSD 2688 - Student Registration for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Email Template Under state law, teachers can't ask students for their pronouns – but students can still provide them to affirming teachers. Below are template emails students can use to inform their teachers or submit name/pronoun forms. To Teachers Subject: Introducing Myself Dear [Professor/Teacher name]: My name is [preferred name], and I will be attending your [name of course] class this year. I am contacting you to let you know that my name will show up on your roster as [legal name], but I would prefer to go by [preferred name] and [your pronouns] pronouns. I identify as [your gender identity] and do not identify with my legal name. I will be putting [preferred name] on my assignments and would appreciate it if you called me by this name and used the pronouns [your pronouns] to refer to me in class. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. You can contact me at [your email address]. Thank you so much for your understanding. I am looking forward to starting your class next week. Sincerely, [Your name] To Principal/School Staff Subject: Request for Affirmed Name/Pronoun Update Hi [Principal/Counselor’s Name], Hope you’re doing well! My [child/teen/self], [Legal Name], goes by [Affirmed Name] and uses [pronouns, if applicable] in daily life. We’d love for this to be reflected in school systems where possible! I’ve attached the completed [Form Name]—let me know if anything else is needed. Also, just checking: Has it been processed? How will this update be shared (or kept private)? Are there any other steps we should take? Thanks so much for your help in making [Student’s Name]’s school experience a little more affirming! Best, [Your Name][Your Contact Info] Pro Tip: CC a guidance counselor or trusted teacher if you’re not getting a response. A little persistence goes a long way! More Information & Resources For details on Florida's law: Florida Senate F.S. 1000.071 For district-specific LGBTQ+ support guides: Miami-Dade Guidelines for Promoting Safe and Inclusive Schools Broward County Inclusive Schools Guide Palm Beach LGBTQ+ Support Guide

< Back to School Policy Hub Chlamydia What is Chlamydia? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive What is Chlamydia? Chlamydia is an easily curable bacterial infection. It is one of the most common STIs. When we say common, we mean REALLY common. ' Around 1.8 MILLION cases of Chlamydia were reported to the CDC in 2019 (mostly between 14 and 24 years old), making it the most commonly reported STI in the US. However, it’s estimated that closer to 3 million people actually contract chlamydia every year in America. Chlamydia is easily treatable. Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics. The sooner you find out you have it, the easier it is to cure. How It's Spread Chlamydia can be spread even if no one ejaculates. Chlamydia is carried in semen, pre-cum, and vaginal fluids. It can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, eyes, and throat. Generally, this happens through vaginal sex or anal sex. In rare cases, chlamydia can be spread through oral sex, too. Symptoms Part of the reason chlamydia is so common is that there usually are no symptoms . However, some signs can show up: unusual vaginal discharge watery discharge from the penis bleeding outside of periods pain or burning while peeing swollen or tender testicles Chlamydia can also infect your eyes. If this happens, you may notice irritation, redness, or discharge. Getting Tested Testing for chlamydia is generally simple and painless. Often, this just means peeing in a cup. In the case of other infected areas, your doctor may take samples from your throat, vagina, cervix, urethra, or anus with a cotton swab to test for bacteria. Because symptoms for chlamydia and gonorrhea are similar, you'll often be tested for both at the same time. It's important to get tested regularly. If you're sexually active, this means at least once per year. Even if you or your partner don't show symptoms, you should follow this general rule of thumb. Seriously. If left untreated for too long, chlamydia can cause infertility and increase your risk of getting HIV. If you're pregnant, you could also pass it to your baby or have a premature delivery. So, do you and your partner a HUGE favor and put your minds at ease. Click here to find a local testing c enter . Tested Positive So, your results came back positive. The first thing to remember is that this is nothing to be ashamed of. Like we said earlier, this is a very, very common infection. If you or your partner have chlamydia, it does not necessarily mean anyone cheated. Test results may not detect the infection until well after contracting it. How do I get rid of it? Luckily, chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics. There are different forms of antibiotics that are used to treat chlamydia, so make sure to follow the instructions from your doctor. Often, your doctor may give you medicine for both you and your partner(s). It is important that BOTH of you finish your treatment and don't have sex for at least 7 days. For real, getting frisky can wait. If you don't take your antibiotics all the way through, you run the risk of re-infecting your partner or other people. Willingly risking your or your partner's sexual health isn't sexy. Peace of mind is sexy. Always make sure to listen to your doctor to effectively get rid of chlamydia. References 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 .

Learn all about being a lesbian and the lesbian community! < Return to Resources Lesbian Resources Learn all about being a lesbian and the lesbian 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 Lesbian Women attracted to women—but is there more to it? Learn More Coming Out Tips Check out our tips and advice for how to come out safely. Learn More History Sappho of Lesbos Learn about the legendary poet Sappho and why she's known as the "lesbian muse." Learn More The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Learn More AIDS Crisis The AIDS Crisis ravaged the LGBTQ+ community for decades, and the government did little to help. Learn More 1 2 3 1 ... 1 2 3 ... 3 Lesbian Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Lesbian Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Lesbian Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Lesbian Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Lesbian Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Lesbian Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Lesbian Price $45.50 1 2 3

< Return to Get Involved Open Positions Filters: Reset Filters Paid/Volunteer Task Force Remote availability Board Treasurer The Board Treasurer stays on top of PRISM's finances to ensure we're doing all we can to serve LGBTQ+ youth. Apply Youth Advisory Committee Advise our Board on how to best serve young people in South Florida! Apply Grant Writer Grant Writers support grant writing on behalf of PRISM. Apply Board Secretary The Secretary of the Board must keep thorough, accurate minutes of our meetings for our records. They also conduct all communication between the Board and outside parties. Apply Board Member The Board of Directors are the head of PRISM, making all of the final decisions regarding events, fundraising and more! Apply 1 1 ... 1 ... 1 1 1 ... 1 ... 1 1 1 ... 1 ... 1

< Back to School Policy Hub Bathroom Access: What Students Need to Know Bathroom access has become one of the most personal and politicized issues facing transgender and nonbinary students in Florida. At its core, this is not about politics—it is about safety, dignity, and whether students can get through the school day without fear or disruption. What Florida Law Requires In 2023, the Florida Legislature passed HB 1521, the Safety in Private Spaces Act . It applies to: K–12 public and many private schools Public colleges and universities Certain private colleges and universities (through a Department of Education rule for institutions licensed by the Commission for Independent Education or exempt under s. 1005.06(1)(b)–(f), F.S.) Under HB 1521 and related DOE rules : Restrooms and changing facilities must be designated for exclusive use by males or females, as defined by sex assigned at birth, or be a single-occupancy unisex facility that meets privacy standards (floor-to-ceiling walls, locking door). Students, staff, and others can be disciplined only if they willfully enter a facility for the “opposite sex” and refuse to leave when asked by authorized personnel. Exceptions exist for emergencies, maintenance, accompanying certain people (such as children under 12 or someone with a disability), or when a designated facility is out of order. For private postsecondary institutions, policies must be updated in student and employee handbooks, disciplinary procedures must be in place, and students and staff must be told they can file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General if the school fails to comply. The Role of Single-Stall and Unisex Bathrooms The law explicitly allows single-stall unisex restrooms and unisex changing facilities as alternatives. These are often the safest and most dignified harm-reduction option for transgender and nonbinary students. If your school or campus has one, you can request to use it—this is permitted under state law. What Federal Law Protects Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education, has been interpreted by courts and the U.S. Department of Education to include protections for transgender students. While Florida law is restrictive, Title IX still applies, and related cases are ongoing. This means you may still have legal recourse if you are denied access in a way that violates your federal rights. What Students and Families Can Do Request a meeting : Discuss accommodations such as access to a single-stall unisex restroom or other privacy measures. Document incidents : If you are denied access or told to leave, write down the date, time, and names of those involved. Seek support : Contact PRISM for guidance and resources. File a complaint : You may file with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights under Title IX or, in some cases, with the Florida Attorney General if your institution fails to meet state facility requirements. Why It Matters Bathroom access affects health, emotional wellbeing, and the ability to focus on learning. While current Florida law limits options, advocacy can still make a difference. Some schools and campuses continue to support students, and others may be open to change when students, families, and allies speak up. If you or your child is being denied access or made to feel unsafe, you are not alone. PRISM is here to help you understand your rights, navigate your options, and take action when necessary.