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< Back to School Policy Hub Respecting LGBTQ+ Boundaries A personal coming out story by Adrianna Gutierrez There's nothing I appreciate more than having a supportive family, especially a supportive mom. The kind of supportive mom who, even though she may not understand everything, goes out of her way to buy all the rainbow trinkets she can for you. I've also been lucky enough in my lifetime to surround myself with people that support me as well, ranging from close friends to acquaintances and even strangers. However, as grateful as I am to be supported, a lot of that support has come at the risk of my boundaries being disrespected and walked on. When I came out socially, I was in the 6th grade, and I had friends who accepted me for who I was. The only people I hadn't come out to were my family. I knew I had queer cousins who frequently interacted with my family and one whose wife we treated like family. So there was no issue, right? It was clear I had a supportive family, right? But it was still hard. Coming out was a very big step for me. Supportive family or not, I didn't want their opinions of me to change. What if me coming out specifically wasn't a good move? What if it was only a problem if I wasn't straight? So, in order to prepare myself before spilling all of these feelings, I put them in a journal that was given to me by my best friend. I learned very quickly that was a mistake. A couple of days later, my mom picked me up from school. When I got in the car, she said four words I'll never forget: "We need to talk." The whole ride home my heart was racing. What did I do? Did I say something? Did I forget something? I couldn't figure it out. We got home and she told me that she found my journal, and I had no choice but to come out to her at that moment. I cried for a couple of reasons then. I was relieved I'd done nothing wrong and was coming down from a rush of anxiety. I was relieved she accepted me, but there was one other thing. She had gone through my journal and breached my privacy. I stowed the journal away and feared using it, or any journal for that matter, ever again. I feared her breaking that boundary again, and I feared having to cry to her on our living room couch again. I feared being publicly out in my household, and I feared another family member would sit me down and make me come out again and relive the same feelings. Soon enough, to my surprise, I figured out my mom had gone on to tell my sister... and my dad... and my aunt… All without consulting me first or even telling me afterward. Do you see the pattern here? Finding out I was queer led to a blatant disregard for any privacy regarding my identity, twice . But even when my brother and sister got into their first straight relationship, they didn’t get the same treatment I did. Some might say my mom was just going to others in order to figure out what to do because she’s never had a queer child before. Nevertheless, it didn't excuse the fact that I wasn’t even told before or after. Having my boundaries overstepped led to a significant amount of discomfort and fear when it came to opening up to my family. It made me grow distant from the idea of telling them any personal feelings I was experiencing out of the same fear that someone else would be made aware without my consent. Since coming out, I’ve even had people I’ve never spoken to come up and ask me things like “How do lesbians ‘do it’?” and other blatantly sexual questions, diminishing my orientation to merely sex. Not only is being sexualized an entirely separate issue, these questions violated my privacy. People that ask me these questions tend to be straight and supportive but coat their questions with “I’m just curious!” or “I just want to learn!” Asking intrusive questions like these makes queer people very uncomfortable, puts them on the spot, and forces them to answer questions they might not even want to discuss with close friends. Queer folx may fear situations like these, which could lead them to hide information about being queer from the public. For those who are closeted, it may lead them to fear coming out at all. Dear straight people: While I and many other queer people do appreciate the straight community’s willingness to learn, there are two important questions to keep in mind in order to respect the privacy of LGBTQ+ individuals: Would you ask a straight person this? Would you appreciate it if someone asked you the same question? If your answer to either of these questions is no: then don’t ask. If you wouldn’t ask a straight person, or you’d be upset if someone asked you, why ask a queer person? While your support is appreciated, it’s no excuse to completely ignore and disrespect the privacy of someone else, especially if it’s someone you don’t know. Overall Part of allyship is ensuring that queer individuals don’t feel alienated in any context, which gives full meaning to the phrase “treat others the way you want to be treated." It means treating queer folks as equals and not talking to them or treating them any differently than you would a straight person. If you have a question and feel it may be inappropriate to ask a queer person, look it up! The internet is a vast and easily accessible resource, equipped with all the resources necessary to help you find the answers to any questions you may have.

< Back to School Policy Hub Sex Vs Gender What is Sex? What is Gender? What's the Difference? Sex vs Gender (Video) Gender Identity Resources What is Sex? Sex is a trait defined by various biological attributes. These can be various different features: Genetic (like X and Y chromosomes) Physical (like your genitals) Hormonal (testosterone and estrogen levels) While this is generally considered binary (male or female), there is a large group of people who cannot be easily placed into a biological sex binary. Some examples of cases that do not conform to these attributes include: Intersex - Physical features do not align with male or female binaries Chromosomal - extra chromosomes or missing chromosomes Hormonal - sex-based hormone levels don't align with male or female binaries What is Gender? Gender is a combination of social, emotional, and cultural ideas that define how humans interact with each other. These can be broken down into two sectors: gender identity and gender expression. Gender Identity Gender identity is how you perceive yourself on the gender spectrum. This can fall anywhere on the gender spectrum and is not limited to male or female. Gender Expression Gender expression is how you display yourself outwardly. This can include the clothes you wear, the way you style your hair, or even the way you talk. This doesn't necessarily have to "match" with your gender identity. It's just how you express yourself! Both gender identity and gender expression are fluid. They can change over time and don't have definitive boxes or categories. What's the Difference? Sex and gender ARE NOT the same thing. Sex is a biological trait that you are born with, just like your eye color or height. Gender is a societal structure; it is how to perceive and express yourself and how that aligns with gender norms and ideals. Watch our video about the differences between sex and gender. Gender Identity Resources Below, you can find information on a specific gender identity. Transgender Resources Non-Binary Resources

< Back to School Policy Hub Employment Discrimination What is Employment Discrimination? Timeline (1953-2021) Legacy What is Employment Discrimination? According to the National LGBTQ Workers Center, “ 4.5% of the population identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender” meaning that this legislation has the possibility of affecting nearly 14,769,000 people nationwide. (Image Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images) The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission states that employment discrimination involves unequal treatment, harassment, denial of a reasonable workplace change, improper questions regarding disclosure, or retaliation on the basis of “race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, disability, age (age 40 or older), or genetic information.” While it may seem like a victory that should’ve been granted years ago, it was just as recently as June 2020 that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the 1964 Civil Rights Act protects employees who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination based on sex. The 6-3 ruling was an enormous victory for the LGBTQ community, especially in light of the presidential administration, led by President Donald Trump, siding with employers who were said to be discriminating against employees due to their identity. This win comes after a long and hard battle of employment discrimination that has affected the LGBTQ+ community for years. Historically, homosexuality, along with other sexual and gender identities, has been used as justification for firing individuals and discriminating against them in the hiring process by giving the job to another candidate instead, despite other qualifications. The list of instances where individuals were discriminated against in the workforce solely due to their LGBTQ+ identity is a long and tiring one involving a plethora of court cases and governmental acts. The LGBTQ+ community has continuously fought for years for protection in the workplace, and even in light of recent victories, the fight is far from over. Timeline April 1953 : President Dwight D. Eisenhower passed an executive order stating that gay people were banned from holding federal positions. Under this order, homosexuality was placed under the category of sexual perversion. Eisenhower’s executive order was in place for nearly 20 years. July 1975 : A bill was introduced by the federal government that would prohibit any form of discrimination based on sexual orientation. This was the first bill of its kind introduced. Unfortunately, it was never considered by the judiciary committee. However, homosexual workers were no longer instantly declined from federal positions. Don't Ask, Don't Tell was repealed in 2011 under President Barack Obama (Image Source: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) February 1994 : Clinton passed the DADT (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) Act, which allowed gay men and women to remain in the military as long as they kept their sexuality hidden. Despite its intentions to protect, tens of thousands lost their positions. September 2011: President Barack Obama took action to repeal DADT (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell). While its repeal was beneficial, close to 12,000 individuals who were in the military were discharged after they decided not to suppress and hide their sexuality. March 2020 : The White House staff passed a policy prohibiting transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. Military. Their argument on the permissibility of this policy was that the treatments transgender individuals receive, such as hormone therapy, may hinder their ability to serve and impact their readiness and ability to complete their duties. June 2020: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the 1964 Civil Rights Act protects employees who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination based on sex. The ruling won with a 6-3 majority to protect LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace. The ruling of Bostock v Clayton County was, therefore, a huge win as the LGBTQ+ community’s employment rights are now included in the protections of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which also protects people based on race, color, religion, sex, and ethnicity. Gerald Bostock (Source: AFP via Getty Images) Bostock was a gay man working in Clayton County. He received great reviews and evaluations as a child welfare service coordinator. After years of working for the company, Bostock became involved in a gay softball league that was looked down upon by his employees. While in a meeting, a colleague of his mentioned sexuality in front of the supervisor of the company. Shortly after, Bostock received word from the county that he had been fired for “conduct unbecoming of its employees.” Bostock filed a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee (EEOC), claiming that he faced discrimination from the county based on his sexual orientation. After appealing through multiple courts, his case was finally heard by the Supreme Court, which ruled in Bostock's favor. January 2021 : On the 21st of January, President Biden passed an executive order titled “Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation.” This executive order prohibits employers from discriminating against current or potential employees based on sexual or gender identity. The president explains that children should have access to bathrooms and sports regardless of identity, and adults should feel confident that they will not lose their job due to prejudice. The foundation of this orde r is based on the Constitution and backed by Bostock vs Clayton, in which “the Supreme Court held that Title VII’s prohibition on discrimination “because of . . . sex” covers discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation.” This order strengthened protections for the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace and other environments. President Biden signing executive order to strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ employees against work place discrimination. (Image Source: The Washington Post) Only a few days later, on January 25, 2021, President Biden signed an executive order ( Enabling All Qualified Americans to Serve Their Country in Uniform ), which reversed Trump’s order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. President Biden writes, “It is my conviction as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces that gender identity should not be a bar to military service,” and emphasizes that transgender individuals hold no negative impact on the effectiveness of the U.S. armed forces. Legacy While the Supreme Court convenes inside to discuss if sexuality and gender identity are protected from employment discrimination, a rally forms outside. (Image Source: Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc / Getty Images) While this timeline comes nowhere near to documenting the vast number of individuals who have experienced employment discrimination, it highlights some major instances and decisions. Not long ago, employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity was prohibited and recognized by the Supreme Court. However, this does not mean the struggle is over or that these biases no longer exist. References Bostock v. Clayton County . (n.d.). Oyez . Retrieved November 16, 2021, from https://www.oyez.org/cases/2019/17-1618 Dishman, L. (2018, June 11). A brief (and depressing) history of LGBT workers’ rights . Fast Company; Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/40582182/a-brief-and-depressing-history-of-lgbt-workers-rights Executive Order on Enabling All Qualified Americans to Serve Their Country in Uniform | The White House . (2021, January 25). The White House; The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/25/executive-order-on-enabling-all-qualified-americans-to-serve-their-country-in-uniform/ Executive Order on Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation | The White House . (2021, January 21). The White House; The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-preventing-and-combating-discrimination-on-basis-of-gender-identity-or-sexual-orientation/ Supreme Court Delivers Major Victory To LGBTQ Employees . (2020, June 15). NPR.org. https://www.npr.org/2020/06/15/863498848/supreme-court-delivers-major-victory-to-lgbtq-employees What is Employment Discrimination? | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission . (2021). Eeoc.gov. https://www.eeoc.gov/youth/what-employment-discrimination

< Back to School Policy Hub Title IX and LGBTQ+ Protections Title IX Still Protects LGBTQ+ Students, Even in Florida Title IX is one of the strongest tools students have when it comes to fighting discrimination in schools. This federal law, first passed in 1972, prohibits sex-based discrimination in any school or educational program that receives federal funding. For a long time, many LGBTQ+ students didn’t know whether that protection applied to them. Today, the legal landscape surrounding these protections remains a complex and evolving one, with the most recent development involving a federal court ruling vacating the broader protections for LGBTQ+ students that had been established by the Biden administration. In 2021, the U.S. Department of Education confirmed that Title IX covers discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, based on the legal logic of the Supreme Court's Bostock v. Clayton County ruling, which found that Title VII protections in employment applied to LGBTQ+ individuals. This interpretation was further solidified in the 2024 Title IX Regulations. However, in January 2025, a federal court ruled to vacate these 2024 regulations nationwide, effectively reinstating the 2020 Title IX rules, according to Jackson Lewis . This means that the protections for LGBTQ+ students, while still rooted in the legal principle established in Bostock v. Clayton County , are currently interpreted under the more narrow 2020 regulations. What the Law Says While the U.S. Department of Education's 2021 directive and 2024 regulations affirmed the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity within Title IX's protections, the recent federal court ruling vacating the 2024 regulations means that, as of January 2025, the 2020 Title IX regulations are now controlling nationwide. This signifies a narrowing of the scope of these protections compared to the 2024 regulations. Specifically, the 2020 regulations do not explicitly include sexual orientation or gender identity within the definition of sex discrimination under Title IX. However, the Bostock v. Clayton County ruling (Title VII context) still provides a legal basis for challenging discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity as a form of sex discrimination, and advocates continue to work towards full recognition of these protections under Title IX, according to Jackson Lewis . This means that while the specific requirements for schools to address discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity may be less explicit under the 2020 regulations, the underlying legal principle of protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from sex-based discrimination remains. Failure to address discrimination can still potentially lead to federal investigation or civil rights complaints. Florida’s Pushback Florida has continued to implement state-level rules that challenge the federal interpretation of Title IX and create challenges for LGBTQ+ students. In 2022, the Florida Department of Education, under the Parental Rights in Education Act (HB 1557), directed schools to restrict instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity. This was further expanded in 2023 to ban instruction on these topics in all grades K-12. In 2023, Florida also enacted laws that restrict bathroom access for transgender individuals in public schools, prohibit the use of preferred pronouns in schools, and limit discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in public workplaces and educational settings. These actions have created significant confusion and, in some cases, outright opposition to federal guidance aiming to protect LGBTQ+ students, according to Central Florida Public Media . While a 2024 settlement clarified some aspects of the Parental Rights in Education Act, allowing for discussions and references to LGBTQ+ topics outside of direct instruction, the broader restrictions remain in place. The ongoing legal battles and state-level resistance underscore the continued struggle for LGBTQ+ students in Florida to fully realize the protections intended by Title IX. What You Can Do Know your rights. LGBTQ+ students are protected under Title IX. If you are denied access to a restroom, harassed based on your identity, or punished for expressing yourself, you have legal grounds to act. Report violations. Start with your school or district Title IX Coordinator. Every school is required to have one. Ask for their contact information and file a written complaint. Contact OCR. If the school fails to act, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights within 180 days of the incident. You do not need a lawyer to do this. Bring a trusted adult. Students have the right to support during meetings. You can ask a parent, teacher, or advocate to attend with you. Keep records. Save emails, forms, or any responses you receive. This documentation can help if you need to escalate your complaint. Why This Matters Title IX is more than a policy. It is a promise that students cannot be denied access to education because of who they are. And while Florida’s political environment may try to blur that promise, federal law is still in effect. Students, teachers, and parents should not have to guess whether their school will follow the law. PRISM is here to provide the guidance and support you need to hold schools accountable and to make sure LGBTQ+ students are not left behind in legal gray areas. Your rights are real. Your identity matters. And Title IX still has your back.

< Back to School Policy Hub The Fight for Marriage Equality Before Marriage Equality Major Court Cases Taking it to the Supreme Court Legacy In the United States, the LGBTQ+ community has fought long and hard for equal rights. While the Stonewall Uprising is known as the spark for LGBTQ+ civil rights, legalizing marriage equality in the United States gave couples the rights they deserved. Activists long took to the streets to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and now it was time to take it to court. Before Marriage Equality Marriage is a civil right towards the freedom of happiness. For years, same-sex couples were denied this right and the benefits of marriage, which gave couples legal rights such as tax benefits, immigration rights, social security income, and employer benefits. Same-sex couples were also unable to receive other vital resources given to married couples, like health insurance benefits, welfare, domestic violence protections, and housing. In some states, domestic partnerships were an option for same-sex couples who lived together and wanted to recognize their relationships legally. These domestic partnerships allowed couples to seek some benefits (for instance, federal taxes), but not many. Domestic partnership’s rights, recognition, and benefits still vary significantly between states, agencies, and other individual companies. Marriage equality was essential for same-sex couples to ensure their rights and protections across the nation. Major Court Cases Baehr v. Miike was the first major same-sex marriage court case. Three same-sex couples filed a lawsuit against Hawaii in 1990, arguing that prohibiting same-sex marriage was a violation of Hawaii’s state constitution. The lawsuit sparked the conversation regarding legitimate interest in same-sex marriage from the LGBT community. The case was initially dismissed but then had a trial with the Hawaii Supreme Court. Before this trial, President Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996. It defined federal marriage only for heterosexual couples, but states had the freedom to define it differently. In 1996, Hawaii gave benefits to couples who were ineligible to get married. Two years later, an amendment to “grant the legislature the power to restrict marriage to opposite-sex couples” was placed on the ballot and passed. Massachusetts became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004, following the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court case Goodridge v. Department of Public Health . Taking it to the Supreme Court In 2009, Edith Windsor received a federal tax bill after the death of her wife, Thea Clara Spyer, because Windsor was not recognized as a surviving spouse. After being denied federal tax benefits, Windsor challenged the Supreme Court on recognizing same-sex couples married in legal states. In 2013, United States v. Windsor challenged section three of DOMA, which recognized marriage as a union between a man and a woman. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled section three of DOMA was “…unconstitutional and that the federal government cannot discriminate against married lesbian and gay couples to determine federal benefits and protection.” Jim Obergfell after the ruling. (Image Source: Elvert Barnes /Wikimedia Commons, CC BY SA ) Obergefell v. Hodges: An Iconic Case Jim Obergefell and John Arthur quickly heard the news of Windor’s success. Obergefell and Arthur decided to get married before Arthur passed away due to his health struggle. The couple lived in Ohio and traveled to Maryland for their wedding. After returning home, they went to an Ohio judge who ruled for Obergefell to be listed as the surviving spouse upon Arthur’s death. John Arthur passed away three months after their marriage. With the Judge’s ruling, Obergefell was listed on the death certificate. However, the state of Ohio appealed the Judge’s decision and reissued the certificate to exclude his name. Obergefell filed an appeal to the Supreme Court in 2014. On June 26th, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 on Obergefell v. Hodges in favor of federal same-sex marriage. Legacy The decision on Obergefell v. Hodges gave civil rights to millions of LGBTQ+ Americans. The White House was lit in rainbow lights, and the nation celebrated after years of protesting, boycotting, Queer politicism, and hardships. Legalizing marriage equality would not have been possible without Edith Windsor and Jim Obergefell’s perseverance and the hard work of the activists who came before us. References Andersen, E. A. (2017). Transformative Events in the LGBTQ Rights Movement. Indiana Journal of Law and Social Equality , 5 (2), 36. https://www.repository.law.indiana.edu/ijlse/vol5/iss2/10 ACLU. (n.d.). Windsor v. United States . American Civil Liberties Union. Retrieved March 26, 2021, from https://www.aclu.org/cases/lesbian-and-gay-rights/windsor-v-united-states Defense of Marriage Act: Update to Prior Report . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-04-353r.pdf Domestic Partner Benefit Eligibility: Defining Domestic Partners and Dependents—HRC Foundation . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/domestic-partner-benefit-eligibility-defining-domestic-partners-and-dependents Domestic Partnership Benefits . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.glad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/domestic-partnership-overview.pdf Domestic Partnership vs. Marriage: What’s the Difference? (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.rocketlawyer.com/family-and-personal/family-matters/marriage/legal-guide/domestic-partnership-vs-marriage-whats-the-difference Liptak, A. (2013, June 26). Supreme Court Bolsters Gay Marriage With Two Major Rulings. The New York Times . https://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/27/us/politics/supreme-court-gay-marriage.html Rosenwald, M. S. (2015, April 6). How Jim Obergefell became the face of the Supreme Court gay marriage case. Washington Post . https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/how-jim-obergefell-became-the-face-of-the-supreme-court-gay-marriage-case/2015/04/06/3740433c-d958-11e4-b3f2-607bd612aeac_story.html

< Return to STI Clinic Search FoundCare - Yolette Bonnet Center Call: (561) 660-5468 Website: https://foundcare.org/who-we-are/locations.html#collection-item-lightbox-14892284 Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 5867 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33417, USA Hours: Today (Wed): Closed All Day Thurs: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fri: Closed Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 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 Hepatitis C (Lab) : Free

< Back to School Policy Hub Sappho of Lesbos Sappho's Life Poetry Loss of Sappho's Work Sappho in Queer Culture Painting of Sappho by John William Godward (Public Domain) For over 2,000 years, Sappho’s life and work have been the subject of great controversy. Although Sappho was a famous lyrical poet in her lifetime and beyond, very little of her work has survived, and the poems that do survive mostly exist in fragments. Many accounts of her personal life were written long after her death, and much of her life remains a mystery. This has left many scholars to speculate about the meaning of her work and her sexuality. Sappho’s Life The Island of Lesbos, the largest of those in red, off the coast of Turkey (Souce: Wikimedia Commons) Sappho was born around 620 BCE on the Greek island of Lesbos, which is located in the Aegean Sea, near the coast of modern-day Turkey. The modern word "lesbian” is a reference to Sappho’s birthplace. While little is known about her personal life, it is believed that Sappho lived in a community of women on Lesbos, where she formed deep emotional bonds and wrote poems exploring love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. Sappho’s family and her lineage remain a mystery. In 2012, one of her poems, now called the “Brothers Poem,” was discovered on scraps of papyrus. The poem names three of her brothers, and she is thought to have had a daughter named Cleis, but translators disagree about her exact relation to Cleis. The year and circumstances of Sappho’s death are unknown, but according to legend, she was so heartbroken by her love for a man that she leaped from a cliff. This legend is regarded by some scholars as an attempt to portray Sappho as a straight woman. Poetry “Sappho Kissing her Lyre” (Source: Jules-Élie Delaunay) Sappho is best known for her poems, often referred to as "lyrics" because they were written to be sung accompanied by a lyre. Her words are passionate, emotional, and filled with vivid descriptions of love and longing. Her work primarily focused on the relationships between women, depicting their beauty and allure. Sappho's poems were often written in the first person, which has led readers to speculate that some of her works might have been autobiographical. Many scholars have debated the translations of Sappho’s works, in part because she wrote her poems in a specific dialect. Take this passage, for instance: “Sweet mother, I cannot weave – slender Aphrodite has overcome me with longing for a girl.” Some scholars interpret this fragment as a confirmation that Sappho was writing about a relationship between two women, or perhaps her own feelings for a woman. Other interpretations insist that the original text uses a genderless word to refer to the narrator’s “beloved.” Loss of Sappho’s Work In the centuries after Sappho lived, she was regarded as one of the greatest writers of antiquity. She became the only woman to be enshrined as a lyric genius by the scholars at the ancient Library of Alexandria. Tragically, most of Sappho's poetry has been lost to time. Due to various factors, including the passage of time and the suppression of LGBTQ+ themes and feminine eroticism in later eras, many of her poems have disappeared. What remains today are fragments, small snippets of her once-prolific output. Despite the fragments, Sappho's words remain potent and evocative, and her influence endures. Want to read Sappho's works? You can find collections of her writing online at the Poetry Foundation . Sappho in Queer Culture Sappho's legacy in queer culture is profound. Her work has been rediscovered and celebrated by LGBTQ+ individuals and scholars alike. Her name, which has come to symbolize love between women, is not only synonymous with lesbian identity but has become an emblem of love, acceptance, and self-discovery. Sappho and Erinna in a Garden at Mytilene (Source: Simeon Solomon, 1864) Although it will never be clear whether Sappho’s sexual identity would fit under the modern umbrella of Sapphic attraction, her poems have served as a source of inspiration and empowerment for generations of queer individuals. They have helped foster a sense of belonging and self-acceptance, reminding those who identify as LGBTQ+ that love is universal and transcends time and societal norms. References The Digital sappho. The Digital Sappho. (n.d.). https://digitalsappho.org/fragments/fr102 Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (n.d.). Sappho. Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sappho-Greek-poet Mendelsohn, D. (2015, March 9). How gay was Sappho?. The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/03/16/girl-interrupted Poetry Foundation. (n.d.). Sappho. Poetry Foundation. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/sappho

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

< Back to School Policy Hub LGBTQ+ History Month LGBTQ+ History Month: What’s Allowed and What Still Works Each October, schools across the country observe LGBTQ+ History Month to honor the people, events, and movements that have shaped LGBTQ+ history. For students in Florida, this month can be a powerful opportunity to feel seen, connected, and included in the broader story of civil rights and progress. But in recent years, growing restrictions on identity-based instruction have caused confusion. Some schools have canceled planned events, removed displays, or discouraged student groups from participating at all. Others simply do not know what is legally allowed. Despite these challenges, LGBTQ+ History Month is still legal in Florida schools. The key is understanding what the law says and how schools can act in ways that are affirming, creative, and compliant. What the Law Says Florida law currently prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in grades K through 8. In grades 9 through 12, instruction is permitted only if it aligns with specific state academic standards. These limits come from the Parental Rights in Education Act and House Bill 1069, now codified in Florida Statutes 1001.42 and 1003.42. However, these laws restrict classroom instruction, not cultural or historical recognition. LGBTQ+ History Month is not banned. Schools are still allowed to recognize historical figures, highlight community contributions, and create opportunities for student-led learning and expression. In other words, how the month is celebrated matters more than whether it is celebrated at all. What Schools Can Still Do There are many fully legal and student-centered ways to observe LGBTQ+ History Month in Florida. These include: Bulletin boards, posters, or book displays honoring LGBTQ+ historical figures Morning announcements that feature LGBTQ+ authors, artists, or activists GSA-sponsored events, trivia games, or art projects QR codes linking to LGBTQ+ history timelines or community stories Optional classroom writing or research assignments that connect to broader social studies or English Language Arts standards These activities are not considered direct instruction on identity. They are cultural recognitions, student-driven programs, and public celebrations of civil rights history—none of which are prohibited by law. What Broward County Shows Is Still Possible Broward County Public Schools continues to be a statewide leader in affirming students. In recent years, the Broward School Board has passed multiple pro-LGBTQ+ resolutions, including one specifically supporting LGBTQ+ History Month. These resolutions publicly commit the district to recognizing the month, supporting inclusive programming, and making space for LGBTQ+ students and staff to feel seen. Even under state pressure, Broward has demonstrated that school districts still have local authority to affirm community values and recognize marginalized groups in lawful, student-centered ways. If it is possible in Broward, it can be possible elsewhere too. What to Do If Your School Pushes Back If your school blocks a poster, cancels a GSA event, or removes LGBTQ+ displays: Ask for a written explanation of the decision Request a copy of your school’s policies on free expression and student clubs Document what was removed and who made the decision Contact a school board member or file a public comment Reach out to PRISM for help understanding your rights Often, pushback is based on fear, not law. Students still have the right to free speech, and school clubs cannot be treated differently based on their viewpoint. Why It Matters LGBTQ+ History Month helps students see that they are not alone and that LGBTQ+ people have always been part of the American story. It provides an opportunity to celebrate resilience, honor contributions, and build community in schools where students too often feel invisible. Even in a restrictive legal climate, the month still belongs to students, teachers, and families who care about equity, truth, and belonging. PRISM is here to help you celebrate safely, speak up when your rights are challenged, and make sure LGBTQ+ students are never erased.

< Back to School Policy Hub Myths About Gender-Affirming Care There are numerous myths, falsehoods, and flat-out lies being used to justify anti-trans legislation and attacks against gender-affirming care . In this post, we take a look at some of the most common myths and explain what they get wrong. "De-transitoning is common." "Transitioning does more harm than good." "Kids are too young to understand gender." Myth 1: "De-transitioning is common." The desire to de-transition after gender-affirming care, particularly surgery, is rare. Many studies find that only about 1% of those surveyed regret transitioning. This means fewer adults regret transitioning than regret getting breast implants or plastic surgery. De-Transitioning Among Youth The Trans Youth Project is a recent study from 2017 to 2022. Its purpose was to provide the first estimates on retransition within trans youth. The sample size included 317 initially binary trans youth between the ages of 3 and 12. Over five years, the youth participants and their parents reported data on their current gender identity. The results found that by the end of the study, 94% of the children continued to identify with their binary trans identity. Another 3.5% later identified as nonbinary, and only 2.5% of participants identified as cisgender. Myth 2: "Transitioning does more harm than good." Some claim that puberty blockers lead to side effects like infertility and abnormal social and mental development. In reality, there is no substantial evidence backing these claims. The only way puberty blockers interfere with fertility is by pausing the production of sperm or eggs. However, it is not permanent, and production can start again by stopping treatment. Puberty blockers have been shown to have positive effects, such as reducing suicidality in trans people. Myth 3: "Kids are too young to understand gender." It’s also falsely believed that children are too young to understand something as complex as gender and what they identify as, or that being trans is “just a phase.” Although many children and adolescents go through phases and explore their identities, the notion that they’re completely clueless is false. Most children can identify their own gender by age 3. As they continue to socialize, they’re able to recognize the disconnect between their actual gender and the one they were assigned. It’s common for trans people to have dysphoric thoughts at an early age– most dysphoria occurs by the time they’re 7 years old. References 20220420-gender-dysphoria-press-release | Florida Department of Health . (2022, April 20). Florida Health. https://www.floridahealth.gov/newsroom/2022/04/20220420-gender-dysphoria-press-release.pr.html Branigin, A. (2022, April 20). Florida memo on gender dysphoria contradicts leading medical guidance . The Washington Post. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2022/04/20/florida-gender-dysphoria-memo/ Caputo, M. (2022, June 3). DeSantis moves to ban transition care for transgender youths, Medicaid recipients . NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/desantis-moves-ban-transition-care-transgender-youth-medicaid-recipien-rcna31736 Children and gender identity: Supporting your child . (2022, February 23). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/children-and-gender-identity/art-20266811#:%7E:text=Most%20children%20typically%20develop%20the,gender%20by%20age%203%20years. Fenway Health. (n.d.). Puberty-Suppression-Risks-and-Benefits-English.pdf . https://fenwayhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/Puberty-Suppression-Risks-and-Benefits-English.pdf Most Gender Dysphoria Established by Age 7, Study Finds . (2020, June 16). Cedars-Sinai. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/most-gender-dysphoria-established-by-age-7-study-finds/ Olson, K. R., Durwood, L., Horton, R., Gallagher, N. M., & Devor, A. (2022, July 13). Gender Identity 5 Years After Social Transition . American Academy of Pediatrics. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/2/e2021056082/186992/Gender-Identity-5-Years-After-Social-Transition?autologincheck=redirected O’Neil, T. (2022, July 11). California ex-trans teen backs Florida ban on Medicaid funds for transgender medical interventions . Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/health/california-ex-trans-teen-backs-florida-ban-medicaid-funds-transgender-medical-interventions Turban, J. L., King, D., Carswell, J. M., & Keuroghlian, A. S. (2020). Pubertal Suppression for Transgender Youth and Risk of Suicidal Ideation. Pediatrics , 145 (2), e20191725. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-1725

< Back to School Policy Hub Homosexuality as a Mental Illness American Psychology Association World Health Organization Legacy Until recently, homosexuality was considered to be a mental illness by both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These classifications were a result of the widespread belief that sexual orientations other than heterosexuality were something needing to be cured or remedied, fostered by society’s discomfort with those who fall outside of what was considered “normal.” Now, however, both of these organizations have removed sexual orientation from their classifications of mental illnesses. American Psychiatric Association Protest of the classification of homosexuality as a mental illness by the APA. (Image Source: Cured/Patrick Sammon, Bennett Singer) Since its founding in 1892, the APA has released five editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), providing information and listings of psychiatric diagnoses. In its first two editions, DSM-I and DSM-II, homosexuality was found as a listed diagnosis. However, in 1973, the APA decided to remove homosexuality as a psychiatric diagnosis from the DSM-III and all following editions, including the current DSM-5. However, they replaced it with " sexual orientation disturbance" for people "in conflict with" their sexual orientation. Not until 1987 did homosexuality completely fall out of the DSM. This decision began the end of negative medicinal stigma surrounding homosexuality and other LGBTQ+ identities, and it was pivotal in generating similar shifts in other areas, such as the WHO. World Health Organization The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD) determined by the WHO is the largest and most commonly utilized classification system for diseases around the globe. In the ICD-10, which was endorsed in 1990 and remains the most recently adopted version of the ICD, homosexuality was removed as a mental illness. However, other variations of sexual orientation were classified as mental illnesses, such as someone who "wishes it were different because of associated psychological and behavioral disorders." In the direction of progress, however, the ICD-11, which was finalized in 2018, removes sexual orientation from its classifications of mental illnesses, following the lead of the APA in 1973. While the ICD-11 is not yet used in widespread medical practice, it reflects the understanding that neither sexual orientation nor gender identity is indicative of mental illness. Legacy The declassification of homosexuality as a mental illness by the APA and WHO was an important step in removing the negative stigma surrounding LGBTQ+ identities. Overall, these decisions were vital milestones in normalizing and accepting the LGBTQ+ community from a medical and social standpoint. Dr. John Fryer giving his speech as Dr. Henry Anonymous to convince the APA to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness at the 1972 APA annual conference (Image Source: 217 Boxes of Dr. Henry Anonymous/Ain Gordan) References Drescher, J. (2015). Out of DSM: Depathologizing Homosexuality. Behavioral Sciences , 5 (4), 565–575. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs5040565 Burton, N. (2015, September 18). When Homosexuality Stopped Being a Mental Disorder . Psychology Today. Retrieved November 9, 2021, from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hide-and-seek/201509/when-homosexuality-stopped-being-mental-disorder. Fernández Rodríguez, M. (2018). Gender incongruence is no longer a mental disorder. JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY , 2 (5), 6–8. https://doi.org/10.29245/2578-2959/2018/5.1157 Cochran, S. D., Drescher, J., Kismödi, E., Giami, A., García-Moreno, C., Atalla, E., Marais, A., Meloni Vieira, E., & Reed, G. M. (2020). Proposed declassification of disease categories related to sexual orientation in the international statistical classification of diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11). FOCUS , 18 (3), 351–357. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.18303

< Back to School Policy Hub Cultural Appropriation What is Appropriation? Identity Pollution Identity Piracy Forms of Cultural Appropriation Appropriation vs Appreciation Avoiding Cultural Appropriation Conclusion What Is Appropriation? Cultural appropriation is the adoption of desirable aspects from a minority culture by a dominant culture, often rebranding them as a product of popular culture and done in ways that can be exploitative, disrespectful, or stereotypical. This separates the customs from their roots, which often leads to cultural erasure. Rooted in an imbalance of power, appropriation mostly exists as a tool of colonization, whether or not it is intended. Anthropologist Simon Harrison identifies two important threats to any culture: identity pollution and identity piracy . Both can lead to identity erasure, which is the removal of a group’s or individual’s culture. Identity Pollution This is the influx of outside cultures into a space, suppressing the local customs. When we assess maps of European empires over the last several centuries, we see how much colonization has smothered the world. An anachronistic map of British colonization. (Image Source: Wikimedia) An anachronistic map of French colonization. (Image Source: Wikimedia) An anachronistic map of Spanish colonization. (Image Source: Wikimedia) Identity Piracy This is the act of an outside culture depleting another of their privacy and customs by taking them and re-appropriating them. While Simon Harrison describes these threats as asynchronous, considering the areas of the world that have been colonized (identity pollution) and evaluating what peoples seem to experience cultural appropriation in the most harmful ways (identity piracy), we find that these operate more as a two-step attack on indigenous or culturally distinct groups. Because the cultures of the European empires were so heavily enforced via global colonization, the descendants of those conquerors didn’t experience the harm of appropriation. Rather, we even learn to expect to see aspects of European culture worldwide. Forms of Cultural Appropriation Cultural appropriation manifests in diverse ways, often involving ignorance or apathy on the part of appropriators. A common form is when members of a dominant group face no consequences for adopting elements of a minority culture, while members of the minority group may face backlash for the same cultural expressions. An example is the phenomenon known as "blackfishing," where white individuals adopt elements of African American culture without facing the same societal repercussions as their Black counterparts. Kim Kardashian wearing her hair in cornrows at the MTV Awards. (Image Source: Wikimedia) Kim Kardashian The reality star has faced criticism for appropriating black hairstyles, such as cornrows, while simultaneously receiving praise for popularizing them. This highlights the disparity in how certain cultural elements are perceived based on the cultural background of the appropriator. Katy Perry Perry has been accused of cultural appropriation for various instances, including her geisha performance at the 2013 AMAs and the "This Is How We Do" music video, which featured cornrows and caricatured baby hairs. Her actions reinforce the practice of tapping into Asian and black aesthetics for entertainment purposes without understanding the complexity of these cultures. Iggy Azalea at the ACL Music Festival (Source: Wikimedia) Other white artists try to lay claim to their cultural exploits. For instance, in 2013, Iggy Azalea once stated that Miley Cyrus copied her by twerking. Not only is this entirely inaccurate and misguided, but Iggy Azalea later tried to announce that twerking, which she appropriated from Black culture and which has existed for several decades in Black spaces, was “dead.” This shows us the expansive harm of cultural appropriation, particularly of the pop culture pipeline. Cultural appropriation not only submits slices of culture for mass uninformed consumption but also attaches these artifacts with an expiration date. So, when the “trendsetters” (appropriators) decide that something is dead, the people to whom that practice is significant are expected to abandon it and are ridiculed in public spaces if they don’t. Appropriation vs Appreciation Appreciation involves seeking to understand and learn about another culture to broaden one's perspective and connect with others cross-culturally. Appropriation, on the other hand, is the act of taking cultural elements without fully understanding or respecting their significance. Where appropriation is largely theft and easy to do unwittingly, appreciation is intensive and involved. Tips for Avoiding Cultural Appropriation Examine Your Own Culture Reflect on the aspects of your own cultural background that are essential to your identity. Consider how you would feel if someone used these elements without understanding their significance. Listen First Understand and appreciate another culture by actively listening to those who are a part of it. Learn about the cultural implications of the elements that interest you. Consider Context Be aware of the meanings attached to cultural symbols and understand when and where it is appropriate to use them. Share Your Own Culture Engage in mutual cultural exchange, sharing aspects of your own language, food, customs, and traditions while learning from others. TED Talk This powerful talk by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse narratives and avoiding generalizations. Conclusion With the rise of connectivity on social media, we see explicit clashes between members of cultures and those who seek to invalidate them by attempting to rob them of cultural significance. This exposes how useful appropriation is as a tool for colonization and how it is deteriorating space for cultural coexistence. Navigating the complex terrain of cultural appropriation requires awareness, empathy, and a commitment to mutual understanding. By fostering a culture of respect and genuine interest in different cultures, individuals can contribute to a world where cultural exchange is enriching and inclusive rather than exploitative and harmful. References Acquaye, A. (2018, August 23). Madonna’s VMAs 2018 Outfit Is the Latest Example of Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation | Teen Vogue. Teen Vogue; Teen Vogue. https://www.teenvogue.com/story/cultural-appropriation-appreciation-kim-kardashian Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: The danger of a single story | TED. (2009, October 7). YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9Ihs241zeg Clifton, Derrick. (2014, August 5th) 5 things white people need to learn about cultural appropriation. Daily Dot. https://www.dailydot.com/unclick/5-things-white-people-cultural-appropriation/ Cultural Appreciation vs. Cultural Appropriation: Why it Matters | Greenheart International. (n.d.). Greenheart International | Connecting People and Planet. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://greenheart.org/blog/greenheart-international/cultural-appreciation-vs-cultural-appropriation-why-it-matters/ cultural appropriation. (n.d.). Encyclopædia Britannica; Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved February 14, 2024, from https://www.britannica.com/topic/cultural-appropriation Harrison, S. (1999). Cultural Boundaries. Anthropology Today, 15(5), 10-13. doi:10.2307/2678369 Raypole, Crystal. (2020, September 16th). There’s a Big Difference Between Cultural Appreciation and Appropriation — Here’s Why It Matters. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cultural-appreciation#appreciation-defined