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< Back Connor Corzine Chair Connor is a lifelong south Floridian, communications professional, and proud LGBTQ+ activist. He graduated with honors from the University of Florida with a Bachelors in Telecommunication. Connor has extensive knowledge and experience in global communications, non-profit marketing, and government relations. Connor currently serves as a Member of PRISM's Board of Directors and strives to advance PRISM's mission and LGBTQ+ inclusivity in south Florida. An avid nature-lover, Connor cares deeply about south Florida's natural ecosystems and climate resilience. < Back to Our Team

< Back to School Policy Hub Homosexuality in Latin America Homosexuality in Latin America The Pre-Colonial Period The Colonial Period The Post-Colonial Period Conclusion Map of Latin America (Source: Davi Garner) One thing about history is it is tainted by those who rule. The mix of influences that create history is told from the leading perspective, sometimes missing important individuals, groups, or events. One group that has been significantly underrepresented in Latin American history is that of the LGBTQ+ community. In particular, this article will explore the history of gay individuals and perceptions of them throughout Latin America’s pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial periods. The Pre-Colonial Period As for the public’s perception, ancient Latin America is relatively accepting of homosexual relationships. Certain tribes used non-binary social structures and did not have strict gender roles like those we see today. (Check out our article for more information on perceptions on homosexuality in pre-colonial America). Serge Gruzinski (Source: Ministerio de Defensa, Flickr) Of course, that does not mean that it was acceptable to be gay during this time. Still, given the existing literature of the colonial period (most of the literature available from this period is from inquisitors), it is safe to assume it was more commonplace in certain places like Mexico City, Puebla, and even Brazil. In fact, according to scholar Serge Gruzinski’s book titled Las Cenizas Del Deseo , one of the conclusions that can be made from the literature available from pre-colonial Latin America is that networks of men “who sought out other men for sexual relationships did exist in the [pre]colonial period.” The Colonial Period So, how did homophobia take hold in Latin America? According to Luiz Mott, anthropologist and sexual freedom activist, “Homophobia is a result of machismo and slavery.” Homophobic rhetoric did not begin to take hold until the Spanish Inquisition. There were a few known cases of homophobic laws passed before colonization, but most of these cases were mainly for power purposes and not against the nature of homosexuality. Laws Against Homosexuality With that being said, homophobia began to proliferate during the colonial period. In particular, one can turn to the diary of Gregorio Martin de Guijo for one of the earliest cases of homophobia. De Guijo shares a judicial case from 1658 where 123 men were accused of partaking in homosexual relationships (or as De Guijo states, “the abominable sin”). Despite laws against homosexuality, these relationships did not cease. Luiz Mott, in a study of Inquisition documents, notes that a person’s social status played a large role in the outcome of their judicial cases when they were accused of sodomy. There were multiple cases in which judges imposed more lenient penalties on individuals accused of sodomy. Cover of Aldrich's "Infamous Desire" (Source: University of Chicago Press) Robert Aldrich, who wrote Infamous Desire: Male Homosexuality in Colonial Latin America , also notes many other cases in which offenders of this law “confessed to multiple sexual partners, sometimes over a long period of time, despite the interdiction on sodomy." Despite best efforts to outlaw homosexuality, many people persisted in same-gender sex. Punishments Against Homosexuality Eventually, the laws imposed during the colonial period took hold, and homosexuality was outlawed. With this, homophobic rhetoric took hold and became widespread. Homophobic acts became far more extreme. For years, many individuals accused of committing “the sin of sodomy” were exiled or placed into forced labor. Some were even killed, such as a slave in 1678 who was whipped due to accusations of sodomy. The Post-Colonial Period The Spanish Inquisition continued, and strides in the gay rights movement were not made until the early 19th century. According to Anna Azevedo and Luiz Mott, it was at the end of the Inquisition in 1821 that homosexuality was no longer considered a criminal offense in Brazil. However, that does not mean homophobia was no longer prevalent in the world. Decriminalization does not mean legalization. It’s taken nearly 200 years to go from the decriminalization of homosexuality to the legalization of gay marriage. With that being said, there were still notable events in Latin American queer history. Gay Rights Movement One of the important firsts to note in history is the first gay candidate for public office, Jose Julio Sarria. There were also many other activists during this time, such as Sylvia Rivera , a trans, Puerto Rican activist who helped spark the Stonewall riots. She also helped to create the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries with Marsha P. Johnson . Socially, the first gay pride movement in Latin America was Argentina's Nuestro Mundo in 1967. There were also movements taking place throughout the next decade, in which Chile’s first gay group, Integracion, was created in 1977. In Mexico, the Homosexual Liberation Front was founded in 1971. Nuestros Mundo, 1967 (Source: Mirada H.) Conclusion Despite the many movements made towards gaining rights for the LGBTQ+ community in Latin America, there is still much progress to be made. Even so, we must remember the history of those who came before us and how the homophobic rhetoric that claims our contemporary society came to be. The only way to decolonize the perspective many people have on homosexuality is to speak out and understand how these views came to take hold. References Aldrich, Robert. Review of Infamous Desire: Male Homosexuality in Colonial Latin America. Ethnohistory, vol. 51 no. 1, 2004, p. 216-217. Project MUSE muse.jhu.edu/article/53484 . Azevedo, Anna, et al. “The Colonial Roots of Homophobia.” Goethe, Zeitgeister, July 2021, www.goethe.de/prj/zei/en/art/22303917.html . Foster, David William. “The Homoerotic Diaspora in Latin America.” Latin American Perspectives, vol. 29, no. 2, 2002, pp. 163–89. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/3185132 . Accessed 2 Jan. 2024. Fiorini, Erin. “A Brief History of the LGBTQI+ Movement in Latin America.” teleSUR English, teleSUR, 21 June 2018, www.telesurenglish.net/analysis/A-Brief-History-Of-The-LGBTQI-Movement-In-Latin-America---20180621-0014.html . Reyes, Guillermo de los. “A Brief Social Historiography of Male (Homo) Sexuality in Colonial Spanish America.” Journal of Homosexuality 51 (2006): 249 - 266. Tortorici, Z. (Ed.). (2016). Sexuality and the Unnatural in Colonial Latin America (1st ed.). University of California Press. http://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1525/j.ctt19b9jgt .

< Return to STI Clinic Search AHF Healthcare Center - Delray Beach Call: (561) 279-0991 Website: https://www.hivcare.org/locations/fl-delray-beach/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 200 Congress Park Drive ste 210, Delray Beach, FL 33445, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thurs: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Fri: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tues: 8:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV : Free

< Back to School Policy Hub Marsha P. Johnson Who was Marsha P. Johnson? Early Life Exploring Identity Stonewall Riots Later Activism Death and Legacy Who was Marsha P. Johnson? Marsha P Johnson, a pivotal figure in the LGBT civil rights movement (Image Source: Netflix) Marsha P. Johnson was a Black LGBTQ+ activist, drag queen, and pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement. Johnson was also the co-founder of Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (S.T.A.R.), which she led alongside Sylvia Rivera . Early Life Johnson was born Malcolm Michaels Jr. in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on August 24, 1945. Johnson maintained a very religious mindset throughout her life. After being sexually assaulted, Johnson's perception of her sexuality became hidden until she graduated from Edison High School and moved to New York City at the age of 17. Exploring Identity Marsha P Johnson was born Malcolm Michaels in Elizabeth, New Jersey (Image Source: USA Today) Johnson originally referred to herself as Black Marsha. However, she later took on the drag queen name Marsha P. Johnson. She got "Johnson" from the restaurant Howard Johnson's and is well-known to have stated that the "P" stood for "pay it no mind" when asked. While many people refer to Marsha P. Johnson as a Black transgender activist, she never explicitly used the term transgender . While this may be because the term wasn't prevalent then, it is more accurate to consider Johnson as gender non-conforming or non-binary. Johnson relied on sex work to get by and suffered countless transgressions both from the public and police throughout her life. This tension, which was felt across the entire LGBTQ+ community, would come to a head on June 28, 1969. Stonewall Riots Johnson was a regular performer at the Stonewall Inn, a bar that had originally only served gay men. After an altercation between Storme DeLarverie and a police officer who attempted to arrest her, riots broke out between the patrons of the bar and police in Greenwich Village, where the Stonewall Inn is located. While many consider Marsha to be one of the initiators of the clash, Johnson repeatedly denied this, stating the riots had already begun when she arrived at the Stonewall building. Later Activism Johnson joined the Gay Liberation Front, a coalition of LGBTQ+ civil rights groups and activists, soon after the Stonewall riots. Johnson later participated in the first gay pride march on the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots in 1970. Soon after, Johnson founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) organization alongside Sylvia Rivera , which sought to provide housing and other assistance to gay and trans sex workers and homeless youth in New York City. In the 1980s, Johnson became heavily involved with the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP), an international organization aimed at ending the AIDS epidemic. Death and Legacy Marsha worked tirelessly to unite transgender and gender non-conforming individuals under the LGBT umbrella (Image Source: Unknown) Marsha P. Johnson's body was found floating in the Hudson River on July 6, 1992, soon after the pride parade that year. Although Marsha P. Johnson was well-documented as having struggled with mental health issues, many people in her life denounced the classification of her death as a suicide. In 2002, the police reclassified Johnson's cause of death from "suicide" to "undetermined". In 2012, the New York police department reopened the case as a possible homicide. Johnson is credited with being at the forefront of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. She played a pivotal role in providing a space within the broader LGBTQ+ community for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals and drag queens, paving the way for the work that has been done in the decades since her passing.

< Back to School Policy Hub Coming Out Tips What is "Coming Out"? Right Time, Right People Find a Solid Support Group You Don't Need to Come Out What is "Coming Out"? “Coming Out” is the act of disclosing one’s own sexuality or gender identity to someone. Coming out is revealing your own sexuality or gender identity to someone. However, coming out is not disclosing or revealing someone else’s sexuality or gender identity. Unless that person is out of the closet already and is fine with people telling others then it is not ok to ever reveal someone else’s sexuality or gender identity. Right Time, Right People Make sure the people you come out to are accepting before coming out. If you’re worried that they might not be, always have a backup plan (especially if it’s someone you depend on, like a parent). We know it can be heartbreaking, but you must have a backup plan. If someone is not accepting of you, you must rise above their negativity and take the high road. If they become verbally and or physically abusive, then you must remove them from your life, no matter who it is. Find A Solid Support Group There are plenty of organizations and LGBTQ+ groups throughout the globe. It can be scary to get involved, but it’s rewarding in the end. PRISM prides itself on promoting a safe, welcoming environment for everyone involved on our Discord Server. Click here to join! You Don’t Need To Come Out The most important thing to remember is that if you don’t feel comfortable coming out, you don’t need to. You’re not “lying” or “fake.” It’s your business. Your business is your business. While there is a heavy glorification surrounding coming out in media and online, you do not have to tell anyone your sexuality if you do not feel comfortable. If you feel pressured by anyone or any group, then the best thing to do is refrain from including that influence in your life. References Coming out: A resource for LGBTQ students . GLSEN. (n.d.). https://www.glsen.org/activity/coming-out-resource-lgbtq-students. Coming Out Resources . HRC. (n.d.). https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out. What's "coming out"? Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/sexual-orientation/sexual-orientation/whats-coming-out.

< Return to STI Clinic Search Atrinity Point Health Center - Oakland Park Call: (561) 983-8940 Website: http://atrinityhealth.com/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 8304 West Oakland Park Boulevard, Sunrise, FL, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Thurs: Closed Fri: Closed Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: Closed Tues: Closed CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid) : Free HIV (Lab) Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis (Lab) Hepatitis C (Lab) Herpes Trichomoniasis

< Back to School Policy Hub Sex Toys 101 Introduction to Sex Toys Modern Sexy Toys Materials Safety and Hygiene Conclusion Did you know that vibrators were very popular in the early 1900s? The individual credited for the invention of vibrators, Mortimer Granville, believed that our body’s nervous system had certain levels of vibration that caused illness when thrown off balance. He claimed that the electromechanical devices he invented would help restore the balance. Vintage Ad Promoting the Electric Massager (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) The device was not advertised explicitly for sexual pleasure but as an electrotherapeutic device. Companies marketed the device as a cure for ailments such as obesity, floating kidneys, and even spinal curvature. These claims were merely pseudoscience at best and bad marketing at worst. The rest of the medical community soon realized that Granville’s claims were wildly exaggerated, so the device was rebranded as a consumer appliance. The vibrator grew in popularity as companies continued to push its use for health reasons, using subtle imagery hinting at the vibrator being used for a more personal matter. The vibrator was marketed towards upper-class men and women who had spare capital and access to electricity. It wasn’t until much later on that feminists rebranded the vibrator as a sex toy. Fun fact: The electromechanical device was nicknamed “Granville’s Hammer.” Let’s Talk About Modern Sex Toys Since the sexual liberation movement of the 1960s and 1970s, the conversation around sexuality, interpersonal relationships, and self-pleasure has improved. However, there is still stigma around the topic. Sex toys come in all different shapes, sizes, and utilities. Some are more geared toward self-gratification while others can be used to enhance the experience of partnered sex. But, before you open up the private tab on your phone, there are some things you should know about sex toys. Materials The sex toy industry goes largely unregulated in the United States—the materials that most common sex toys are made from have been linked to various illnesses, including cancer. You should be aware of what comes into contact with your body. So, let's talk about what materials to look out for when shopping for sex toys. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most common sex toy materials. Most toys labeled “jelly” or “jelly rubber” are likely PVC, but without any federal regulation, there is no guarantee. PVC is known to break down over time and leach phthalates, a chemical known to disrupt your endocrine system and damage reproductive organs. Silicone is a material seen often in food and medical settings. There are different grades of silicone, but not all are body-safe. Medical-grade silicone is used for implants and contacts, so it is one of the safest materials used for sex toys. Silicone is also more expensive, so most low-cost sex toys use other materials. Here are some tips for spotting real silicone: Real silicone is cloudy—never see-through. It has no smell. Medical-grade silicone is non-porous, making it easier to clean and less likely to harbor harmful bacteria. Other materials like stainless steel, borosilicate glass, and polished natural stone are body-safe and non-porous. But, always research the material if you have any reservations or are unsure what the toy is made of. Safety and Hygiene Just like sex with your partner, preparation and cleanliness are very important when it comes to having a safe and enjoyable experience. Condoms are a great way to be safe when it comes to using sex toys. STIs can be transmitted between people if they share toys, so condoms can prevent the spread of infections. Click here to learn more about condoms and other barrier methods. Lube helps make the experience more comfortable. Keep in mind that like with condoms, not all lubes are compatible with all sex toys. For example, silicone-based lube is not recommended with silicone toys as it can cause the toy to break down. There are a few types of lube: silicone-based, oil-based, water-based, and some hybrid ones. They each have their own pros and cons to fit your preference. When using condoms, you should only use silicone or water-based lube. When it comes to sanitation, most toys come with their own cleaning instructions. There are also cleaners created specifically for cleaning toys. Warm soap and water will do the job for most sex toys, but always refer to the toy’s care instructions. Conclusion While sex toys can enhance the sexual experience, they can also be quite problematic when improperly cleaned, used, or stored. Be sure to read the storage and cleaning instructions. When purchasing sex toys, search reputable sites to ensure quality and safety. Many credible sites offer options that are body-safe (although they are more expensive). There are also reputable sites that cater to queer individuals—just double-check the reviews and credibility. There should be no shame around the topic of safe sex—safety should be the top priority. Remember to discuss boundaries with your partners when it comes to sex toys, and always establish informed consent. And don’t forget to have fun! References Adams, K. (2020, June 8). Vibrators had a long history as medical quackery before feminists rebranded them as sex toys. The Conversation. Retrieved April 24, 2022, from https://theconversation.com/vibrators-had-a-long-history-as-medical-quackery-before-feminists-rebranded-them-as-sex-toys-132577 Lieberman, H. (2016, March 16). Selling Sex Toys: Marketing and the Meaning of Vibrators in Early Twentieth-Century America. Cambridge University Press. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/enterprise-and-society/article/selling-sex-toys-marketing-and-the-meaning-of-vibrators-in-early-twentiethcentury-america/22E463A1B220B723BEFE776F605DB64B Mortimer, G. J. (1883). Nerve-vibration and excitation as agents in the treatment of functional disorder and organic disease. London,Churchill. https://archive.org/details/nervevibrationex00gran/page/n9/mode/2up Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Uses, Benefits, and Safety Facts. (n.d.). Chemical Safety Facts. Retrieved April 24, 2022, from https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/polyvinyl-chloride/ White, H. (n.d.). It's time to talk about toxic chemicals in sexual health products. Made Safe. Retrieved April 24, 2022, from https://www.madesafe.org/whats-in-that/sexual-health-products/ File:White Cross Electric Vibrator ad NYT 1913.jpg. (n.d.). Wikimedia Commons. Retrieved April 24, 2022, from https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:White_Cross_Electric_Vibrator_ad_NYT_1913.jpg

< Back to School Policy Hub Birth Control Patch What is the Birth Control Patch? How it Works Using it Effectively What is the Birth Control Patch? Birth Control Patch (Unsplash; Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition) The birth control patch is a thin, square patch that is approximately 2 inches by 2 inches and sticks to the skin. Each patch comes individually wrapped and releases hormones through the skin into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. How it Works The combination of the hormones progesterone and estrogen prevents ovulation; that is, the release of an egg from the ovaries during a uterus’s monthly cycle. Without an egg, pregnancy is impossible because there is nothing for sperm to fertilize. The hormones in the patch also thicken the mucus produced in the cervix, therefore making it difficult for sperm to enter and reach any eggs that may have been released. The hormones may also affect the lining of the uterus so that even if the egg is fertilized the egg will have difficulty attaching to the wall of the uterus. No birth control is 100% effective. The birth control patch is 93% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, for those weighing over 198 pounds, it may be less effective. Birth control patches do not protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Only condoms and dental dams work to protect from STIs. Using it Effectively The most effective time to start the patch is up to five days after the start of a period. It is recommended to use other forms of contraception for the first seven days of using the patch. One new patch should be applied anywhere on the skin except the breasts, genitals, palms of hands, or soles of feet. The most common places to apply the patch are the buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso. Lotions, makeup, and other skin products can prevent the patch from sticking well and should be avoided. A new patch should be applied once a week for three weeks in a row, ensuring the patch is applied on the same day of the week. The patch should be removed at the end of the third week in order to have a period. The patch should be reapplied if it loosens or falls off for less than a day. If the patch was off for more than one day, a new patch should be applied and that day should be considered as the new start of the week. Those who are interested in learning more about the possible health benefits and risks of different types of birth control, including the patch, should talk to a doctor or other health professional. References Reproductive Health Access Project. (February 2021). Fact Sheet: The Patch . https://www.reproductiveaccess.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/factsheet_patch.pdf Teens Health from The Nemours Foundation. (2017). Birth Control Patch. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-patch.html

< Return to Open Positions Social Media Drafter We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Social Media Drafter 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 conducts many initiatives digitally, which makes building a solid brand image and marketing extremely important. Social Media Drafters work within the SMDCT to develop catchy captions and to ensure we are using the best hashtags possible. Social Media Drafters have the following responsibilities: Creating captions for general Social Media posts Maintaining a consistent connection between SMDCT managers to meet deadlines in a timely and effective manner Adding the most effective hashtags to Social Media posts, so they reach the widest audience Next

< Back to School Policy Hub Non-Binary What Does Non-Binary Mean? History Issues Symbols What Does Non-Binary Mean? Non-binary is an umbrella term used to refer to a wide range of gender identities that do not fit into the binary of man or woman. Examples of non-binary identities are genderqueer, genderfluid, agender, bigender, gender non-conforming, and more. However, it's not uncommon for someone to identify as simply "non-binary" or even as a mix of several of these identities. Non-Binary History Non-binary identities are not unique to the 21st century. While some people may claim that non-binary identities were a concept created by the current generation, a record of non-binary gender has existed since the beginning of written history, as far back as Mesopotamia. At the time, Mesopotamians referred to a third gender of people who often performed religious duties. This third gender continued to be recognized in many civilizations throughout history. We see many examples of gender non-conforming, trans, and non-binary identities in Asian culture throughout history. In our article Gender Expression in East Asian Cultures , we explore these vibrant histories. Non-Binary Issues Non-binary individuals face a variety of issues in today’s society. Among these difficulties are transphobia, misgendering, deadnaming, and gender dysphoria. Gender Dysphoria Gender dysphoria is the feeling that one’s gender identity differs from their biological sex or assigned gender. Gender dysphoria may lead a non-binary or transgender person to be uncomfortable with the characteristics of their assigned gender or biological sex, including the gender roles society associates with that sex or their physical appearance and body. It’s important to note that you don’t need to experience gender dysphoria to be non-binary. Not all non-binary people experience gender dysphoria. Transphobia Transphobia is a range of negative reactions to people who do not conform to social gender norms and expectations, such as people who are non-binary. Transphobia can result in non-binary and transgender individuals experiencing a lack of acceptance and violence from those around them. As such, non-binary individuals facing transphobia may suffer from both physical and emotional harm simply because they fall outside of society’s expectations. 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. Non-Binary Symbols Genderqueer Flag Genderqueer Pride Flag (2011) The genderqueer flag, featuring lavender, white, and chartreuse stripes, was designed by Marilyn Roxie in 2011. Lavender - Represents androgyny and queerness White - Represents people who identify as having no gender or are agender Chartreuse - Represents identities outside of the gender binary. Non-Binary Flag The non-binary flag was created in 2014 by Kye Rowan. Yellow - Represents something as its own and, therefore, those who identify outside of the gender binary White - Represents multigender identities, as it is made of all other colors mixed together Purple - Represents people who identify as a mix of the male and female genders Black - Represents people who identify as agender, as black is the absence of color. Non-Binary Pride Flag (2014)

< Back to School Policy Hub PrEP and PEP PrEP and PEP are medications you can take to prevent exposure to HIV . These can be extremely effective in helping people who are at high risk of exposure. What is PrEP? Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventative medicine that when used as prescribed is effective in preventing the risk of contracting HIV from sex. It is an oral medication that is taken once per day. It must be taken for at least seven days to best prevent HIV. If you are in a high-risk group for HIV/AIDS, talk to a medical provider about whether PrEP is right for you. What is PEP? Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a medicine used after high-risk exposure to HIV. PEP stops HIV from spreading in the body, so it lowers your chances of getting it. If you believe you may have been exposed to HIV through sex, you have up to 72 hours to start PEP. If you start PEP after 3 days, it won’t work. You can get PEP at most emergency rooms and some doctors’ offices. Important: Keep in mind that PEP isn’t a one-time pill. It’s taken for 28 days and should only be taken in an emergency by those who have had a high-risk exposure to HIV. Get Tested Today HIV testing is fast and easy. The Affordable Care Act ensures HIV screening is covered by health insurance without a copay, and some sites offer free testing without insurance. Check out the STI Clinic Search to find out where you can be tested in South Florida. References About HIV/AIDS | HIV Basics | HIV/AIDS | CDC . (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html What is HIV? What is AIDS? | How Can You Get HIV? (n.d.). Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hiv-aids

Need the anti-bullying resources formally listed on the Florida Department of Education website? Check here! < Return to Resources Anti-Bullying Resources Know your rights and how to defend them Read on to learn why these resources are paramount to protecting students. Click here to skip directly to the list of anti-bullying resources. First, some context. On December 6th, 2021, the Florida Department of Education (DOE) removed countless anti-bullying resources from its site, including guidance on preventing bullying against LGBTQ+ youth. These resources, which provide guidance on how to prevent bullying for educators and students alike, are paramount to the safety of all students, not just those in the LGBTQ+ community. DOE Director of Communications Jared Ochs said the following in a statement confirming the removal: “Unfortunately, the links we reviewed were to U.S. DOE webpages that had previously provided helpful guidance and information, but now are being used as platforms for advocacy.” One glaring question arises from this: What is so “unfortunate” about advocating for our most vulnerable youth? We know exactly why the DOE finds this to be an issue. Empowering educators, staff, and students with resources to create a learning environment that is safe for all students is directly at odds with the mission of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has continuously eroded away protections for LGBTQ+ students by preventing transgender girls from participating in womens’ sports and limiting discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in schools . We believe in providing easily accessible resources for LGBTQ+ youth, both on and off-campus. That’s why we’re fighting back. Below, you can find all of the anti-bullying resources previously provided on the FLDOE website. This will remain the top link until the DOE restores these resources on their own site in full. These resources were pulled from the Internet Archives' Wayback Machine , which maintains a record of almost every iteration of every website from the past two decades. These resources are exactly as they were displayed (aside from our own gorgeous fonts, of course) on the FLDOE website as of October 6th, 2021. Bullying Prevention Bullying in schools is of increasing focus for Florida schools, districts, and for the Florida Department of Education. Florida Statute 1006.147, also known as The Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act, requires school districts to adopt an official policy prohibiting bullying and harassment of students and staff on school grounds, at school-sponsored events, and through school computer networks. Bullying Resources for Educators | Bullying Resources for Parents | Bullying Resources for Youth Bullying/Harassment Definition: Systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students or employees that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; or unreasonably interfere with the individual’s school performance or participation. Bullying Law and Policy Florida's Anti-Bullying Law - s.1006.147, F.S. DOE's Revised Model Anti-Bullying Policy (Word) Criteria Checklist for Model Policy (Word) Guidance on Federal Anti-Discrimination Law (PDF) Key Policy Letters on Bullying from the U.S. Department of Education Discrimination and Harassment Based on Race, Religion, or National Origin (December 31, 2015) Bullying and Harassment of Students with Disabilities (October 21, 2014) Bullying and Harassment of Students with Disabilities (August 20, 2013) (PDF) Enclosure (PDF) Bullying and Harassment of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Students (June 14, 2011) Bullying and Federal Anti-discrimination Laws (October 26, 2010) Bullying Resources StopBullying.gov (Developed by the U.S. Health and Human Services, Education Department, Centers for Disease Control, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) What is Bullying Warning Signs that a Child is Being Bullied Bullying and Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, or Transgender Youth Bullying and Youth with Disabilities and Special Needs Respond to Bullying Bullying Awareness & Prevention (Learn Psychology) Cyberbullying Resources Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN): Anti-Bullying Resources Bullying Resources for Educators How can I create a bully-free school environment? Adult intervention is one of the best defenses against bullying. Educators can first learn the warning signs as well as the myths of bullying, especially of social bullying, which research indicates is more difficult for adults to identify than other forms of bullying. Educators can intervene when they see bullying occur and can send a clear message that the school does not tolerate bullying. Some steps that schools can take to ensure a bully-free school environment include the following: (1) identify where and when bullying occurs; (2) train all school personnel to recognize bullying; (3) increase adult supervision at campus "hot spots"; (4) create an anti-bullying task force charged with educating students and staff; and (5) integrate anti-bullying materials into curriculum for discussion and role-play. Educators can use staff meetings, assemblies, parent conferences, and most importantly daily interactions with students to establish a culture of acceptance, tolerance and respect. Training Resources Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment in Our Nation's Classrooms. This training toolkit is made up of two modules to address bullying in classrooms. Specifically, it is designed to assist teachers in cultivating meaningful relationships with students while creating a positive climate in the classroom. Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment on Our Nation's School Buses. This training toolkit is made up of two modules to address bullying on school buses. Specifically, it is designed to assist school bus drivers in cultivating meaningful relationships with students while creating a positive climate on the bus. StopBullying.gov Prevention at School Stop It on the Spot Monique Burr Foundation: Prevention Education Programs Bullying: A Module for Teachers (American Psychological Association) Bullying Prevention (National Association of School Psychologists) National School Safety Center: Bullying in Schools Bullying for Educators (podcast) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Technology and Youth: Protecting your Child from Electronic Aggression (PDF) Hamilton Fish: The 411 on Bullying (PDF) Bullying programs - OJJDP Model Programs Guide School-Based Bullying Prevention - OJJDP Model Programs Guide Bullying Resources for Parents How can I support my child if he or she is bullied at school? Avoid blaming your child for the harassment. Think twice before giving advice - your child may have already tried the strategies you are going to suggest. Get as much information as you can. Talk with your child’s teacher, principal, or counselor and ask them to help your child be safe. Their intervention may include consequences for the bully, increased supervision, and helping your child make more friends if he or she is isolated. Ask your child what she has already tried to resolve the problem. Praise her for all the things she has tried. Give him permission to stop doing the things that haven't worked to stop the bullying. Encourage him to keep telling you and other adults. Help him to think about what has worked- or what might work. If your child is isolated, help her make connections through activities, hobbies, or clubs. StopBullying.gov How to Talk About Bullying What to Do if Your Child is Being Bullied (PDF) How to Talk with Your Child's Educators (PDF) Bullying and Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, or Bisexual (LGBT) Youth Prevent Cyberbullying Technology and Youth: Protecting your Child from Electronic Aggression (PDF) For bullying and harassment using social media (such as Facebook, MySpace, Tumblr and Formspring), parents can follow the social media site's "Help" link to report abuse or policy violations such as imposter accounts, bullying, hate speech, pornography, etc. Bullying Prevention (National Association of School Psychologists) Bullying of Children with Special Needs Bullying Prevention for Parents (podcast) Bullying Resources for Youth There is a good chance that you have experienced bullying yourself, or that you have been the bully yourself. Probably, you have seen someone else being bullied. Bullying can take the form of words or deeds. It can be done from electronic devices. It includes repeatedly calling someone names, or repeatedly excluding someone from the group, or physically harassing someone. If you feel like you are being mistreated or isolated and it is happening again and again, talk to an adult. Know there is help. If you find yourself bullying someone else, stop the behavior and make it right. Apologize. Focus on doing things differently from now on. Ask for help with your behavior. If you see someone being bullied, take a stand and support that person. If you feel safe, tell the person doing the bullying to stop. If you don't feel safe, walk away and try to bring the victim with you. Whether you are being bullied, being the bully, or seeing someone being bullied, know that there is help. Start by talking to an adult you can trust. StopBullying.gov What Should I Do If I'm Bullied? (PDF) What You Can Do Support the Kids Involved What Can Students and Youth Do to "Lend a Hand?" (PDF) Bullying and Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, or Bisexual (LGBT) Youth Contact: Office of Safe Schools 325 West Gaines Street, Room 1302 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400 Educators Parents Youth Start