Search Results

< 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

< Back to School Policy Hub Model Minority Myth What is the Model Minority Myth? History Harming Civil Rights School and Education Colorism Conclusion What is the Model Minority Myth? The model minority myth is the inaccurate idea that Asian Americans possess innate qualities and behaviors that make them academically superior to other minority groups. Image Source: Unsplash This includes harmful stereotypes like the belief that Asian people are the “unproblematic” minority group or inherently better at math and science, which introduces harmful expectations and undervalues their achievements. History When The 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act was passed, the laws for immigration changed significantly. Previously, many opportunities for immigration from Asia to the Americas were limited due to various federal interventions such as the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882-1943) and the Immigration Act of 1917. This new 1965 bill targeted highly skilled workers from all over and removed racial barriers to immigrating to the U.S. The people emigrating (leaving their country) from various parts of Asia were primarily middle to upper-class due to the cost of travel and the skills necessary for the high-paying jobs available in America. This led to the white majority in America generalizing individuals of varying Asian descents as the "model” minority group. They were often highly educated and successful, which allowed them to easily assimilate into American society. These stereotypes created a disparity between Asian immigrants and immigrants of other racial groups who were still viewed as poor, uneducated, and a threat to the American way of life. Harming Civil Rights Image Source: Unsplash On the surface, it can seem like the model minority myth is a positive viewpoint, but it works to divide Asian Americans from other minority groups and separate their oppression and struggles from those of other racial minorities in America. This is, after all, where the term’s roots are: attempting to separate Asian Americans from the Civil Rights Movement. The seemingly positive view of Asian Americans stemmed out of white-spurred racism and violence towards African Americans. It was spread after two major victories for the Civil Rights Movement—the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. A desired outcome of popularizing this myth was to dehumanize BIPOC further and attempt to invalidate their struggles. By pitting African Americans and Asian Americans against each other, the pressure is taken off white America to change. The model minority myth creates a false narrative that Asian Americans have “overcome” racism and poses the question of why BIPOC and Latinx communities haven’t “been able to.” In reality, the greater statistical success of Asian Americans is due in part to greater declines in labor market discrimination compared to other minority groups. This myth works to falsely portray the very nature of oppression and racism as something to overcome rather than dismantle. This would allow white supremacist ideals to remain as the systematically upheld values and thoughts. It also tries to delegitimize programs and policies that try to oppose these forces, like affirmative action. By categorizing Asian Americans as the “model” minority group, their own struggles with racism are historically downplayed and overlooked, too. School and Education As a result of this myth, Asian Americans are often assumed to be smart and, therefore, overlooked for help. The consequent effects include feeling pressure to perform better academically, internalizing stereotypes, and hesitating to speak up or ask for help. These can lead to an academic downfall and even mental health issues for Asian American students. This myth also ignores the variety of cultures and ethnic groups within the broad grouping “Asian American” and the unique array of struggles within each. In regards to education, not all sub-groups within the broad category statistically perform the same. Those who tend to suffer the most academically are Southeast Asian and Pacific Islander students, such as the Vietnamese, Laotian, Hmong, Tongans, and Native Hawaiians. Their dropout rates, for high school and college, are among the highest of any group. However, those dropout statistics are often ignored or viewed as the anomaly, even sometimes by their families, because of the assumption that Asian Americans are academically successful regardless of the circumstances. Colorism Colorism is the differential treatment of people within a racial group based on skin tone, with preference shown towards those with lighter skin. This discrimination is done both intentionally and unintentionally by people within and outside of that group. In this case, there is discrimination towards Southeast Asian Americans because of their darker skin tones. It also ignores the fact that immigration experiences between each sub-group are different. Some came to America by choice, some came to escape war, and some came to find job opportunities. These various circumstances affect how much a family can help their children succeed with their education and – in consequence – their dropout rates. Educators and institutions often assume that Asian American students receive plenty of help from their families, but that may not be the case if they didn't have the privilege of being educated or coming from a country that wasn't suffering from high rates of poverty. Conclusion Overall, the model minority myth is a topic that needs to be acknowledged and worked on more, especially in schools. Educators, policymakers, journalists, and others should bring visibility to the problems created by this myth and call for remedies. It’s also important to hold the white majority accountable for the dangerous stereotypes that they have created in order to further subjugate the minority and distract from the fact that they benefit from the disarray that it causes amongst various racial groups. References Chow, G. W. (2011, Winter). The Model Minority Myth. Independent School. Retrieved April 13, 2021, from https://www.nais.org/magazine/independent-school/winter-2011/the-model-minority-myth/ Chanbonpin, K. D. (2015). Between Black and White: The Coloring of Asian Americans. Washington University Global Studies Law Review, 14(4). https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/law_globalstudies/vol14/iss4/10 Museus, S. D. (2008). The model minority and the inferior minority myths: Understanding stereotypes and their implications for student learning. About Campus, 13(3), 2-8. doi:10.1002/abc.252 Wing, Jean. (Nov. 2007). Beyond Black and White: The Model Minority Myth and the Invisibility of Asian American Students. Urban Review, vol. 39, no. 4, pp. 455-487. Image 1: Beck, C. & NPR. (2017, April 19). [Artist Depiction of what it is to be labeled a “model minority”]. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2017/04/19/524571669/model-minority-myth-again-used-as-a-racial-wedge-between-asians-and-blacks Image 2: Dipasupil, D. & Getty Images File. (2021). [Protesters at The End the Violence Towards Asians rally in New York]. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/how-black-people-can-be-strong-allies-asian-americans-right-n1260988 Image 3: Sosa, E. & Caltech Letters. (2021). [Art expressing the diversity of Asian Americans]. Caltech Letters. https://caltechletters.org/viewpoints/model-minority-myth

< Back to School Policy Hub Case Studies and FAQs Case Studies and FAQs: Real Students, Real Cases Understanding how legal decisions and enforcement events have played out in real life can help students, parents, and educators assess risk and build a path forward. This article relies exclusively on documented cases and policy enforcement in Florida. Case 1: Adams v. St. Johns County School Board (Florida) In one of the most significant federal cases involving school bathroom access, a transgender student named Drew Adams sued his school district after being told he could no longer use boys’ restrooms at Nease High School. Adams had been using the boys’ facilities without issue until officials forced him to use a gender‑neutral restroom or women's facilities. He challenged this under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause. Initially, a federal district court ruled that the school must allow him full access. A three-judge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision in 2020. However, in a full en banc ruling in December 2022, the 11th Circuit reversed the lower courts, finding that a school bathroom policy based strictly on biological sex did not violate federal law. Takeaway: While earlier courts supported access based on gender identity under Title IX, the final en banc ruling upheld sex-based separation. That ruling remains binding in Florida and neighboring states. Case 2: First Arrest Under Florida’s HB 1521 – Marcy Rheintgen On March 19, 2025, a transgender woman named Marcy Rheintgen was arrested at the Florida State Capitol after using a women’s restroom to wash her hands. She was charged under Florida’s Facility Requirements Based on Sex Act (HB 1521)—the state’s law that criminalizes using restrooms inconsistent with your sex assigned at birth. Prosecutors later dropped the misdemeanor trespassing charge because they failed to file in time. This is the first known enforcement of HB 1521 since it went into effect on July 1, 2023. It highlights the legal risk individuals now face under state law—even when federal law may offer protection. Wikipedia Frequently Asked Questions Can schools require transgender students to use restrooms based on sex assigned at birth? Yes. Under Florida’s HB 1521 and state administrative rules (Rule 6A‑10.086), public schools must require restroom access based on biological sex assigned at birth. The en banc Eleventh Circuit ruling in Adams supports this under current federal law. Can students face legal penalties for refusing state bathroom rules? Yes. HB 1521 makes it a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail or a fine) for a person to remain in a restroom inconsistent with their assigned sex after being asked to leave. The arrest of Marcy Rheintgen demonstrates real-world enforcement. Does Title IX still protect transgender students? Title IX still exists—but the 11th Circuit en banc ruling rejects that identity-based bathroom protections are required under Title IX in Florida. While some federal courts outside the 11th Circuit interpret Title IX more broadly, Florida remains bound by this precedent. Can a school district create more inclusive policies than state law? No. State law overrides district policy. On issues like bathroom access, HB 1521 sets the statewide rules all schools must follow, even if local leaders want to go further. While schools cannot adopt policies that conflict with state law, some may offer case-by-case supports such as single-stall restrooms, private changing areas, or flexible scheduling to help students feel safer. Why This Section Matters These real cases underline a difficult reality: while Title IX protections once seemed to support gender-affirming access, federal precedent now permits restrictive bathroom rules. And under state law, enforcement is real and punishable. Understanding these rulings and legal risks allows families and educators to make informed decisions, document events properly, and pursue remedies when violations occur—or prepare to challenge them.

< Back to School Policy Hub Implants What is the Birth Control Implant? How it Works Getting an Implant Removing an Implant What is the Birth Control Implant? The birth control implant, also called Nexplanon, is a small, thin rod that is inserted into your arm. It's extremely effective at preventing pregnancy. By extremely effective, we mean over 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable forms of contraception available. This is because implants leave no room for error. Unlike condoms, birth control, and many other forms of contraception, you don't need to remember to use it. Because they last for years, you can get an implant inserted and won't have to worry about it again until it expires. The birth control implant does not protect you from STIs. Only condoms and dental dams can protect you from STIs. Woman showing how the birth control implant goes just below the skin on the arm (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc / Nikhil Kanda, Sarah Bruso) How it Works The birth control implant uses the hormone progestin. Progestin works to prevent pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the cervix to trap the sperm and sometimes prevent ovulation. These make your periods lighter, and you may stop getting your period at all. If you get the birth control implant inserted within the first 5 days of your period, these protect against pregnancy immediately. If it's inserted at any other point in your cycle, you'll be protected after 7 days. It lasts for up to 5 years, and you can get pregnant again as soon as it's removed. Getting an Implant Birth control implants have to be inserted by a doctor or nurse. If you have health insurance, you can likely get the implant for free. When getting the implant, your doctor will numb the area of your arm where it will be inserted. Then, they will use a special tool to place the implant under your skin. This usually only takes a few minutes. Usually, you'll just feel a small pinch when getting the numbing shot. After that, you won't be able to feel the insertion. Your arm may feel tender or swollen around the site of the implant for the first few days. Your healthcare provider will tell you how to clean the area around the implant. Removing an Implant If your birth control implant is about to expire and you still don't want to get pregnant, or if you want to get pregnant now, you'll need to have your implant removed. This is usually very simple. Your doctor will numb your arm, similar to insertion, and then make a small incision to remove the implant. Usually, you'll just feel a small pinch when getting the numbing shot. After that, you won't be able to feel the removal. Unless you start another form of hormonal birth control, your period will go back to how it was before you got your implant. You can get pregnant as soon as you get your implant removed. References Birth Control Implants | Nexplanon Information . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-implant-nexplanon .

< Return to STI Clinic Search Planned Parenthood - Kendall Health Center Call: (786) 263-0001 Website: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/florida/miami/33173/kendall-health-center-2258-90320 Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 8900 SW 117th Avenue Unit 207-B Unit 207-B, Miami, FL 33186, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Thurs: 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Fri: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sat: 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Tues: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid) HIV (Lab) Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis (Rapid) Syphilis (Lab) Hepatitis C (Rapid) Hepatitis C (Lab) Herpes Trichomoniasis Genital Warts

< Back to School Policy Hub The American Civil Rights Movement A photograph of the 1963 March on Washington (Source: Wikimedia Commons) What was the Civil Rights Movement? The Civil Rights Movement was the decades-long fight for social justice, equal rights, and equal treatment for African Americans. Most would cite the 1950s as the "beginning" of the movement. In actuality, there was never a specific starting point when African Americans started advocating for their rights. Even today, African Americans have to fight to be treated equally in society. Black Codes and Jim Crow Laws Black Codes were numerous sets of laws enacted in the former Confederate states to ensure white supremacy stayed in place. An image of an African American drinking from a colored water fountain (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in 1939). (Image Source: Public Domain) Put into place following the Civil War, Black Codes were very detrimental to African Americans. This was done because, while the 13th Amendment to the Constitution ended slavery, there was a loophole; Section 1 of the 13th Amendment states the following: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” Because of this, if an African American committed a crime, they could be legally forced back into slavery. Black Codes included many ridiculous laws that only applied to people of color. Even the most minor offense could cause a person of color to be forced back into slavery. Jim Crow laws were unfair laws that further segregated people of color. Thomas Dartmouth Rice inspired the name with a racist minstrel routine he performed in the early 1800s. In these performances, Rice supposedly went on stage and acted like a baboon while wearing blackface. Eventually, Jim Crow became an offensive slang term for Black men and a designation for segregation. Jim Crow laws separated people of color from schools, housing, jobs, water fountains, public gathering places, etc. All of this, plus the already existing racism in society, created difficult circumstances for African Americans. Black Codes and Jim Crow laws’ existence truly made life unfair for African Americans and are just some of the reasons why the Civil Rights Movement began. Notable Figures Rosa Parks An image of Rosa Parks being fingerprinted by a Deputy Officer after refusing to give up her seat on a bus during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) Rosa Louise McCauley Parks was an African American civil rights activist who is best known for her role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Parks refused to give up her spot on a bus on December 5th, 1955, as she was a person of color and had to sit in the back. She was forcefully removed from her seat and fined $10 (equivalent to 250 modern dollars). Parks was called “the first lady of civil rights” and “the mother of the freedom movement” by the Congress of the USA. Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivering the famous “I Have A Dream” speech at the March on Washington on August 28, 1963. (Image Source: PBS) Martin Luther King Jr. was an African American civil rights leader and Baptist Minister. King was seen as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement who helped inspire millions of Americans to make a change. King became the most visible spokesperson and leader during the Civil Rights Movement. King is most famous for his “I Have A Dream” speech. This speech helped pass the 1964 Civil Rights Act and was vital in inspiring all Americans. Malcolm X Malcolm X in 1964. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) Malcolm Little, better known as Malcolm X , was an African-American human rights activist and Muslim Minister who was a popular figure of the Civil Rights Movement. He was a supporter of Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism. Unlike Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X urged his fellow African Americans to protect themselves from white suppression “by any means necessary.” He labeled other civil rights leaders “stooges” of the white world and even labeled Martin Luther King Jr. as a chump. Other Civil Rights leaders worth mentioning include Sojourner Truth and Bayard Rustin . Conclusion The Civil Rights Movement was successful due to its strong leaders and the dedicated work of people of color in America. As Martin Luther King Jr. said in his famous speech: “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” While people of color still fight for absolute equality today, the United States would be a very different place if it weren’t for the Civil Rights Movement. References History.com Editors. (2021, May 17). Civil Rights Movement . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-movement History.com Editors. (2021, January 21). Reconstruction . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war/reconstruction The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). black code | Laws, History, & Examples . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/black-code Carson, C. (n.d.). American civil rights movement | Definition, Protests, Activists, & Facts . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/event/American-civil-rights-movement The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution . (n.d.). National Constitution Center – The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. https://constitutioncenter.org/interactive-constitution/amendment/amendment-xiii Urofsky, M. I. (n.d.). Jim Crow law | History, Facts, & Examples . Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/event/Jim-Crow-law Nobel Prizes 2020 . (n.d.). NobelPrize.Org. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/1964/king/biographical/ Nichols, C. (2020, February 4). Rosa Parks (1913–2005) BlackPast. https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/parks-rosa-1913-2005-0/ History.com Editors. (2021a, January 19). Rosa Parks . HISTORY. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/rosa-parks History.com Editors. (2009, October 29). Malcolm X . History.com. https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/malcolm-x.