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

< Return to STI Clinic Search AHF Wellness Center - Wilton Manors Call: (877) 259-8727 Website: https://www.freestdcheck.org/locations/fl-wilton-manors/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 2097 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, USA Hours: Today (Fri): 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: Closed Tues: Closed Wed: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thurs: Closed CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Street Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis

< Back to School Policy Hub Colorism What is Colorism? Colorism vs. Racism Harmful Effects Who is Impacted? Combating Colorism Conclusion What is Colorism? Colorism is the discrimination or prejudice against people of color that typically occurs amongst people of the same racial or ethnic group. Colorism, also known as shadeism, causes members of the same race to be treated differently due to social implications and cultural meanings attached to darker skin tones. Colorism vs. Racism Colorism pertains to prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory acts against people based on their skin tone. Racism relates to prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory actions against people based on their perceived or actual race. People of the same race can have different skin tones, while people of other races could have the same skin tone. In the case of colorism, two people of the same race but utterly different skin tones are treated differently. With racism, two people of varying races but identical skin color are treated differently. Harmful Effects Countless research has shown that across ethnic and racial groups, light-skinned people of color have an advantage over darker-skinned people of color. Even when including background variables such as socioeconomic status and parental dynamics, colorism is primarily related to institutional racism across the USA and could not exist without it. Colorism negatively impacts one’s self-esteem, beauty standards, and relationships. Usually, when faced with racism, people of color can turn to their communities for support, but that is not necessarily the case with colorism. People subjected to colorism may experience self-hatred related to the negative attention they receive for having a darker skin tone. Who is Impacted? Colorism does not just affect the Black community but exists and is an issue within all communities of color. When colorism is discussed, it is often referred to as being an issue only within the black community; however, colorism does affect all people of color. Colorism is not something that white people experience themselves, but it is something that white people utilize to discriminate against people of color. In mainstream media, colorism is rarely discussed. However, when colorism is mentioned, it is often in terms of “black-on-black” discrimination. This is not the only case of colorism. White people discriminate against people of color based on their skin tone, even if someone is not outright saying it. For example, the lack of diverse representation in the entertainment industry and adequate makeup palette shades are both examples of colorism in action. Combating Colorism Colorism, similar to racism, can be combated with the conscious recognition of biases that we may have towards lighter skin tones. In the case of colorism, we must not judge people of color based on their skin tone’s lightness. Image Source: Unsplash Combatting colorism may seem simple, but it is not. Of course, we should all accept people of any race regardless of their skin tone. It seems evident that people should not be judged on their race or skin tone but on their character’s content. However, colorism is already integrated within multiple societies all over the world. An advertisement displaying an Indian woman using and promoting skin-lightening products. (Image Source: Neutrogena) Skin-Lightening For example, within Bollywood in India, it is common to use skin-lightening products to acquire the generally more "desired" skin tone. These skin-lightening products make up a multi-billion dollar industry within India. To combat colorism, we need to celebrate all races, regardless of skin tone, and stop supporting companies that sell pro-colorism products. Conclusion We must not elevate people because they have a lighter skin tone. It is important to remember that white people, or people of color with lighter skin tones, can still have negative characters. Judging people based on the color of their skin creates a detriment to people of color as a whole. References colorism . (n.d.). The Merriam-Webster.Com Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colorism Grant, C. S. G. (2020, November 21). What Is Colorism? Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-colorism-5077380 Webb, S. L. (2020, February 29). Colorism vs. Racism: What’s the Difference? Colorism Healing. https://colorismhealing.com/colorism-and-racism/ Webb, S. L. (2013, September 13). Colorism - NCCJ . ColorismHealing. https://www.nccj.org/colorism-0 Hunter, M. H. (n.d.). The consequences of colorism. APA PsycNet. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2012-27188-016 Nittle, N. K. N. (2021, March 21). The Harmful Effects of Colorism . ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/the-effects-of-colorism-2834962 Thelwell, K. (2020, October 2). Poverty and Colorism in India . The Borgen Project. https://borgenproject.org/colorism-in-india/ Hannon, L. (2015). White Colorism. Social Currents , 2 (1), 13–21. https://doi.org/10.1177/2329496514558628

< Back to School Policy Hub Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification Mental Health Counseling and Parent Notification For many LGBTQ+ students, access to school-based mental health support can be life-changing. A trusted counselor can offer a safe place to talk about identity, relationships, family challenges, or the everyday stress of school. But in Florida, recent laws and district policies have created confusion and fear about how private those conversations really are. What the Law Says About Parental Rights Florida’s Parents’ Bill of Rights ( HB 241, 2021 ; Ch. 1014, F.S. ) gives parents broad authority over decisions affecting their child’s upbringing, education, and health care. It requires school districts to promote parental involvement and allows parents to access their child’s educational and health records. The Parental Rights in Education Act ( HB 1557, 2022 ; § 1001.42(8)(c), F.S. )—later expanded by HB 1069, 2023 ; § 1000.071, F.S. —requires that schools notify parents about certain changes in a student’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being and prohibits staff from discouraging parental involvement. HB 1069 also added restrictions on pronoun use and expanded the ban on classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity to additional grade levels. These laws do not require counselors to automatically disclose a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity unless there is a documented safety concern. However, district-level procedures in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach have been shaped by these laws, resulting in more cautious approaches to mental health counseling and disclosure. How District Policies Apply: Miami-Dade County Public Schools Board Policy 2410.01 – Mental Health Services outlines the district’s responsibilities under state law, including offering community referrals and delivering services through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Threat Assessment & Mental Health Services Guide for School Administrators details when and how parental consent is required for referrals, and how confidentiality applies in short-term counseling. Broward County Public Schools Policy 1480 – School Counseling Records and FERPA Protections explains how counseling and psychological records are protected under FERPA and Florida law. Family Counseling Program provides free, confidential short-term counseling for students and families, with parental consent required for ongoing services or outside referrals. Palm Beach County Public Schools Palm Beach’s Mental Health Assistance Allocation Plan outlines a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for student mental health, including school-based mental health professionals, co-located clinicians from community providers, and crisis intervention teams. The plan states that parent or guardian involvement is encouraged, but services may begin with student self-referral and initial confidential support, especially when safety is not an immediate concern. Official record changes, such as legal names, still require parental approval under state law. What the Law Still Allows Across all three counties, there is no statewide or district policy requiring immediate parental notification for every counseling session. A student can speak with a school counselor without automatic disclosure, unless the counselor believes the student is at risk of harm. Both Florida’s School Counseling Framework and the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) standards recognize student confidentiality as critical for effective care. What Students and Parents Should Know Students : You have the right to request mental health support at school. Before your session, ask your counselor about confidentiality and what information may be shared. If you feel unsafe at home, make that clear—it may help protect your privacy. Parents : You have the right to be informed about significant changes affecting your child’s well-being, but not every conversation they have. Building trust helps ensure your child seeks help both at school and at home. Educators and Counselors : Know your district’s policies, state laws, and ethical codes. When uncertain, consult your legal department and follow professional counseling standards. Why This Matters Mental health support saves lives. LGBTQ+ students are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts—not because of who they are, but because of the hostility and isolation they face. Limiting confidential support only increases these risks. At a time when public policy is shifting, PRISM believes that Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools still have a duty to support students with care, integrity, and adherence to both the law and professional ethics. We are here to help students, parents, and school staff understand their rights and navigate these rules without fear.

< Return to STI Clinic Search FoundCare - Boynton Beach Call: (561) 274-6400 Website: https://foundcare.org/who-we-are/locations.html#collection-item-lightbox-14892273 Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 1901 S Congress Ave Suite 100, Boynton Beach, FL 33426, USA Hours: Today (Fri): Closed All Day Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: Closed Tues: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Wed: Closed Thurs: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid) : Free Hepatitis C (Lab) : Free

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

< Return to Open Positions Copy Editor We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Copy Editor Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org Part of our work is creating educational resources for LGBTQ+ youth and queer people of color. Editors ensure the highest quality of PRISM's articles, social media captions, and other forms of written work. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay : $50 Standard $75 Rush Edit Responsibilities : Review articles, captions, and other tasks for spelling, grammatical, punctuation, or formatting errors Ensure that educational topics are conveyed in a well-formatted, easy-to-read manner Maintain accuracy of information provided, both through peer-editing and continuous review of published resources While not required, it is preferred that Editors have prior exposure to information regarding one or more of the following : Sexual health LGBT issues Racial topics Black history/culture LatinX history/culture Asian history/culture LGBT history Editors should also have experience in proofreading and editing. Editors are assessed in their technical abilities prior to hiring through various mock tasks. PRISM pays a specified amount for each piece created, which may vary from project to project. PRISM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider applicants for this position without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, HIV and/or STI status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, young people, and members of other historically disenfranchised populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Next

< Back Avion Goordeen Outreach Director Avion is a bisexual man and a first-generation immigrant from the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago. He has a Master's in Ocean Engineering from Florida Atlantic University and has been involved in LGBTQ+ activism and leadership since 2018. This includes working with CompassGLCC and being a member of the board of directors of Night Runners WPB. In his free time, Avion enjoys paddleboarding, photography and is currently a fan of the manga, One Piece. < Back to Our Team

< 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.

So, someone just came out to you as transgender. We've provided some helpful resources to break it down! < Return to Resources So, someone just came out to you as Transgender What does that mean, and how should you respond? We've provided some helpful resources below to break it down! So, someone just came out to you. You may be feeling a lot of things, and trust us, that's completely normal. We've put together a collection of some of our resources below to process and understand, as well as some extra ways to show your support! Sex Vs Gender Learn the differences between sex, gender identity, and gender expression. Maxx Fenning Outdated Trans Terms Learn about how to respectfully refer to trans folx and the transgender community. PRISM Inc. Gender-Affirming Care Gender-affirming care refers to a range of support systems that help trans folx achieve lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves. PRISM Inc. 1 2 3 The Basics History Gender Expression in Asian Cultures East Asia has a vibrant history of queerness, particularly regarding life outside of the gender binary. PRISM Inc. The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Lex Costello Homosexuality in the Pre-colonial Americas Learn about how homosexuality is intrinsically linked with the diverse gender structure of native tribes. PRISM Inc. 1 2 3 Transgender Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Transgender Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Transgender Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Transgender Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Transgender Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Transgender Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Transgender Price $45.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Bomber Jacket: Transgender Price $68.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Hoodie: Transgender Price $59.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Leggings: Transgender Price $37.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Plus Size Leggings: Transgender Price $42.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Socks: Transgender Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Fanny Pack: Transgender Price $34.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Pillow Case: Transgender Price $22.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sticker: Transgender Price $2.50

PRISM works to expand access to LGBTQ-inclusive education and sexual health resources for youth in South Florida. It's our goal to make sure everyone feels included in their community, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. About Us Want to learn more about PRISM? This is who we are, what we do, and why our work matters. Our Mission PRISM works to expand access to LGBTQ-inclusive education and sexual health resources for youth in South Florida. It's our goal to make sure everyone feels included in their community, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Our Vision We envision a community where race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression are not deciding factors in young people’s ability to maintain their physical, sexual, and mental health. Our Work Empowering youth is at the core of everything that we do. We provide our community with: Empowering youth is at the core of everything that we do. We provide our community with: Helpful Resources Helpful Resources We have loads of articles on sexual health, LGBTQ+ history, POC issues, and more! Find these under Learn and on our social feeds. STI Clinic Search Find information on free and low-cost STI testing resources through our STI Clinic Search. PRISM Student Ambassador Program P-SAP is a network of resources and support for high school and college student leaders on the frontlines of LGBTQ+ advocacy. Youth Activism PRISM is dedicated to advocating for queer youth through grassroots action in our community and state. Why It Matters Youth are at risk, and comprehensive sex education saves lives. As of 2021: 36.1% of high school students in Florida have had sexual intercourse and 24. 5% were currently sexually active 49.1% of those students reported not having used a condom during their last sexual encounter Youth aged 15-24 accounted for half of all new STI infections in the United States in 2021. In 2022, Florida had 1,983 AIDS diagnoses; 102 of those were youth in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. In 2021, only 8.2% of high schoolers reported getting tested for HIV. LGBTQ-inclusive education is under attack. Inclusive education was already a patchwork system in the state of Florida, but the "Don't Say LGBTQ " law turned this battle into a war. Now our lawmakers are finding ways to expand Don't Say LGBTQ's restrictions and censorship, as we've seen time and time again in school board meetings and at the Department of Education. With LGBTQ-inclusive education even harder to access, the need for resources that are easily accessible both outside of and within an academic setting is only increasing as young people consume more information through digital media.

< Return to Open Positions Visual Designer We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Visual Designer 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. Visual Designers work within the Content Creation Task Force to develop this brand image and keep PRISM looking flawless. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay : $100 Original Design $50 Design off Template $125 Rush Original Design $75 Rush Design off Template Responsibilities: Create icons, backgrounds, social media posts, product designs, and other visuals for PRISM Maintain a consistent connection between managers to meet deadlines in a timely and effective manner Develop graphics in a manner consistent with PRISM's brand image Complete at least 4 social media designs per month Assist with the design of marketing material (e.g, printed flyers, internal documents) as needed Qualifications: Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and be able to provide a portfolio of prior work Exposure to LGBTQ+ issues, BIPOC and LatinX history, or sexual health Volunteer Visual Designers are welcome to add anything they create for PRISM to their personal portfolios. 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