< Back Damian Thomas Website Design Manager Damian Thomas is a full-stack web developer who has been working in and around progressive politics since 2017. Off the clock, he's a history nerd, fighting game enthusiast, and musician. < Back to Our Team

In 2021, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) recognized October as LGBTQ History Month for the first time within our schools. But in 2022 and 2023, the school board voted against renewing that recognition after intimidation from alt-right hate groups and our state government. In 2021, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) recognized October as LGBTQ History Month for the first time within our schools. But for the past three years, the school board voted against renewing that recognition after intimidation from alt-right hate groups and our state government. LGBTQ+ history is American history because LGBTQ+ Americans are Americans. LGBTQ-inclusive education benefits all students. It's time to teach OUR history. It's time to school the school board. We're flooding MDCPS's public hearing with the same stories of our rich LGBTQ+ history that they've deprived of students in our schools. Tune in, show support, and learn from the people of Miami as they detail the shoulders we stand on. RSVP to learn how to watch online or sign up to speak yourself! SIGN UP Watch It Live

< Back to School Policy Hub Matthew Shepard Caution : The content of this post describes violence and homophobia. Who Was Matthew Shepard? Life and Death Legacy Who Was Matthew Shepard? Grayscale photograph of Matthew Shepard (Source: Gina van Hoof) Matthew Shepard was a young, gay American from Wyoming whose tragic death sparked outrage across the country and led to many improvements in hate crime legislation. Life and Death Shepard was a political science major at the University of Wyoming. Often described as being kind and empathetic, Shepard cared deeply about equality, diversity, and respecting others' beliefs. His mother reported that when Shepard was in high school, he was attacked and sexually assaulted during a trip to Morocco. This, she said, began a steady decline in his mental health as he grew increasingly withdrawn and depressed. By the time he was in college, Shepard struggled with drug abuse and suicidal ideation. Matthew Shepard (Source: Gina van Hoof, Matthew Shepard Foundation) Shepard's Murder On the night of October 6, 1998, Shepard was approached by Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson at a bar in Laramie. The two offered to give Shepard a ride home, but instead drove him to a remote rural area and proceeded to rob, beat, and torture him, tying him to a fence and leaving him for dead. The next morning, he was found unconscious by a cyclist and taken to the hospital. Shepard died just six days later. Hate Crime Testimonies at the time confirmed that McKinney's actions had been fueled by homophobia; the pair identified Shepard as a target for robbery, pretended to be gay to lure him in, and then McKinney panicked and attacked when Shepard placed a hand on his knee. In contrast, Henderson's lawyer denied that Shepard's sexuality had anything to do with the murder. Legacy Shepard’s tragic passing has led to many improvements in hate crime legislation. Legislation started in the Wyoming House Of Representatives, continued through President Bill Clinton, and was finalized with President Barack Obama on October 28th, 2009, making discrimination towards members of the LGBTQ+ community a hate crime. On October 26, 2018, a little over 20 years after his death, Matthew Shepard’s ashes were interred at the crypt of the Washington National Cathedral, the first interment there since Hellen Keller in 1968. While he is no longer with us, Matthew’s name lives on through the Matthew Shepard Foundation , an LGBTQ+ non-profit organization in Casper, Wyoming, as well as a play called “The Laramie Project." Reference Bindel, Julie (October 25, 2014). "The truth behind America's most famous gay-hate murder" . The Guardian . Brooke, James (November 21, 1998). "Witnesses Trace Brutal Killing of Gay Student" . The New York Times .

< Back to School Policy Hub Pansexuality What is Pansexuality? Pansexuality and Bisexuality History Issues Symbols Pansexuality means an attraction to all gender identities. The prefix “pan” was chosen because it comes from the Greek root meaning “all.” Oftentimes, pansexuality is also defined as "attraction regardless of gender." Pansexuality and Bisexuality Pansexuality lies under the Bi+ Umbrella. While both bisexual and pansexual refer to attraction to multiple genders, pansexuality is commonly considered a more inclusive label. Bisexuality is often misunderstood as meaning "attraction to men and women," and some find this definition to be too limiting. Hence, individuals may choose pansexuality as their label to include non-binary, transgender, gender fluid, and other gender non-conforming people within the scope of their attraction. Others may identify as pansexual because they consider themselves attracted to others regardless of gender — or, as it's sometimes called, "genderblind." It's important to note, however, that this is not the case for everyone; many pansexuals do have gender preferences. Ultimately, whether a person decides to identify as bisexual or pansexual is a personal choice and should never be invalidated. Pansexual History Multi-gender attraction has been documented in humans—and animals!—throughout history. Although some of the earliest records of the term pansexual come from 1914, when it was called "pan-sexualism," the word as we know it came into play by the 1970s. This era was a pivotal time for LGBTQ+ identities that existed outside of the gay/lesbian box. Pansexuals had carved themselves a place in the bi+ community. Then, in the 1990s, "pansexual" was finally being used to refer to a community that had long been existing and thriving. Because all bi+ identities share a similar history up to a point, check out our Bisexuality article for a more in-depth look at multi-gender attraction throughout time. Pansexual Issues Misconceptions There are many myths surrounding bi+ identities, like pansexuality. Some of these include: Pansexuals are really either gay or straight and just need to figure things out Pansexuality is just a phase — a transition between straight and gay Pansexuals are more likely to cheat because they are attracted to everyone Pansexuals are more likely to sleep around because they are attracted to multiple genders Pansexuals think they are better than bisexuals because they are attracted to people's personalities and not their looks Pansexuals are never allowed to have gender preferences Pansexuals are not allowed to be explicitly sexual because they're supposed to be attracted to people's "souls", not their bodies These myths unfairly marginalize pansexual folx and erase and invalidate their sexuality. To learn more about the issues that affect all bi+ identities, see our Bisexuality article . Pansexual Symbols Pansexual Flag The pansexual pride flag was created in 2010 on the internet and has grown in popularity since. It has three colored bars: pink on top, yellow in the middle, and blue on the bottom. Pink - Attraction to those who identify as female Blue - Attraction to those who identify as male Yellow - Attraction to those who identify outside of the gender binary The P Symbol Another common symbol is a “P” with an arrow and crossed tail. The cross represents the symbol for Venus, which signifies female identity, while the arrow represents the symbol for Mars, signifying male identity. The two combine to form a "P", standing for pansexual. References LGBTQIA+ Wiki. (n.d.). Pansexual https://lgbta.fandom.com/wiki/Pansexual#:~:text=Another%20common%20symbol%20for%20pansexuality The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center. (n.d.). Pride Flags https://www.unco.edu/gender-sexuality-resource-center/resources/pride-flags.aspx#:~:text=The%20pansexual%20pride%20flag%20was,has%20gained%20popularity%20since%20then GLAAD. What is Pansexuality? https://www.glaad.org/blog/what-pansexuality-4-pan-celebs-explain-their-own-words Goldberg, Abbie, ed. (13 April 2016). The SAGE Encyclopedia of LGBTQ Studies . SAGE Publications. p. 833. ISBN 9781483371290 Hayfield, Nikki (2020). Bisexual and Pansexual Identities: Exploring and Challenging Invisibility and Invalidation . Routledge. pp. 1–17. ISBN 9780429875410 HuffPost. Wong, B. (2018, June 27). 9 things pansexual people want you to know . https://www.huffpost.com/entry/things-pansexual-people-want-you-to-know_n_5b328d99e4b0b745f17877cc Ka'ahumanu, Lani; Hutchins, Loraine, eds. (2015). Bi Any Other Name: Bisexual People Speak Out (2nd ed.). New York: Riverdale Avenue Books . p. 24. ISBN 978-1626011991 Rolling Stone. Zane, Z. (2019, October 4). What's the real difference between bi- and pansexual? https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/whats-the-real-difference-between-bi-and-pansexual-667087/

< Back Auxmary Valdez P-SAP Manager Auxmary Valdez is a queer woman and daughter of first-generation Venezuelan and Nicaraguan immigrants. She is a former sex educator and current University of Central Florida student, double majoring in Political Science and Biomedical Sciences. < Back to Our Team

< Back to School Policy Hub Anti-Bullying and Non-Discrimination Policies What Protects LGBTQ+ Students from Bullying and What Might Not Every student deserves to feel safe at school. But for many LGBTQ+ students in Florida, bullying and harassment remain an everyday challenge. Whether it shows up in the form of slurs in the hallway, online harassment, or teachers looking the other way, the message to these students is often that they are on their own. That message is wrong. What Florida Law Says Florida Statute 1006.147, known as the Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Act, requires every public school district to adopt a policy that prohibits bullying and harassment. These policies must protect all students and employees and must include specific procedures for reporting, investigating, and responding to incidents. The law defines bullying as behavior that inflicts physical harm or substantial emotional distress. Harassment is defined as conduct that creates an intimidating or offensive environment. Importantly, while the statute allows districts to list specific protected characteristics, it does not require them to include sexual orientation or gender identity. That choice is left to local school boards. In places like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach County, local policies explicitly cover sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. For example: Miami-Dade County includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in its Policy 5517.01 – Bullying and Harassment. Broward County includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression protections in Policy 5900 – Anti-Bullying. Palm Beach County includes sexual orientation, gender identity or expression in Policy 5.002 – Prohibition of Bullying and Harassment. The Gap Between Policy and Reality Even when districts do have inclusive policies, that does not mean they are followed. Students regularly report that their concerns are ignored, minimized, or even blamed on them. One PRISM member in Palm Beach County was told to “lay low” after reporting repeated slurs and threats. The school’s response was to pull them out of activities instead of addressing the harm. At the same time, Florida’s recent laws around instruction on identity have created fear and confusion. Some teachers believe they cannot affirm a student’s identity without violating the law. This misinterpretation has made schools more hesitant to intervene when LGBTQ+ students are targeted, especially if the harassment is tied to name changes or pronoun use. What You Can Do If you are a student being bullied, or if you are a teacher or parent supporting someone who is, there are clear steps you can take. Start by documenting everything. Keep a written log of what happened, when, and who was involved. Save any screenshots or messages. File a formal report. Every school should have a process in place. Submit the report in writing and keep a copy. Check your district’s anti-bullying policy: Miami-Dade Broward Palm Beach Follow up. District policies usually set deadlines for investigating complaints. Ask for updates in writing. Miami-Dade schools must begin responding to a credible bullying report within 24 hours and complete documentation within 30 school days of the incident. Broward schools must start investigating within 5 school days of the report and finish within 10 school days, with a one-time 5-day extension if needed. Palm Beach schools do not publicly list a specific deadline for completing bullying investigations. Go further if necessary. If the school fails to act, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education . If the bullying is connected to gender or perceived identity, you may also be protected under Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in schools. Why This Matters When schools fail to protect LGBTQ+ students, the impact is serious. Harassment is linked to lower academic achievement, chronic absenteeism, and long-term mental health issues. Policies on paper mean little without action and accountability. Schools have a legal obligation to protect all students. But they also have a moral responsibility to create spaces where every young person can thrive. That only happens when bullying is taken seriously, when policies are enforced, and when LGBTQ+ students are seen and supported. PRISM is here to help you navigate this process and fight for change where it is needed. If your school is not doing enough, we are ready to stand with you. Because your safety is not negotiable.

< 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 Sterilization What is Sterilization? Tubal Ligation Vasectomy What is Sterilization? Sterilization can be defined as a “permanent method of birth control” for individuals who no longer wish to have the ability to reproduce and have children. There are two major methods of sterilization. The common procedure for people with a uterus is called tubal ligation , which involves disrupting the fallopian tubes. For those with testicles, the common procedure is a vasectomy . Tubal Ligation Procedure This image depicts the three different methods that could be used when performing a tubal ligation. The first is a cauterization in which the tubes are cut and then the ends are burned to prevent bleeding and promote healing. In the second, the tubes are simply cut and each end is tied to seal it closed. The third method involved no cutting of the tubes, but rather a small section is gathered and a tight band is placed around it to seal off any openings in the tube. (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc/Amelia St. Peter) During a tubal ligation, a woman's fallopian tubes are either cut, tied, or blocked in order to prevent an egg from traveling from the woman’s ovaries to her uterus, as well as to prevent the sperm from traveling from the uterus through the fallopian tube where it would typically meet with an egg for fertilization, therefore preventing pregnancy. This procedure is commonly referred to as getting one's “tubes tied.” The procedure takes place while the patient is placed under general anesthesia, where the doctor will go in and tie both fallopian tubes. However, upon waking up, the patient is able to finish their recovery at home. Tubal ligation often involves one of two processes: a minilaparotomy, in which a small incision is made and fallopian tubes are pulled up for access, or a laparoscopy, in which a small device is inserted near the navel to view the reproductive organs, and another small incision is made where an instrument is inserted to perform the tubal ligation. After the procedure is complete and the patient has recovered, they can expect to continue to have regular menstrual cycles, periods, and sex. Effectiveness Tubal litigations are almost 100% effective, with less than 1% of women becoming pregnant after. However, upon the rare chance of successful fertilization, there is a high chance an ectopic pregnancy will occur. This is when a fertilized egg gets implanted within the fallopian tube rather than the uterus. These types of pregnancies are not viable and must be terminated for the mother’s health. While tubal ligations are seen as a permanent procedure, it is possible to reverse the surgery and “untie” one’s tubes. However, the possibility of fertilization and pregnancy is greatly reduced to a success rate of between 50%-80% according to John Hopkins Medicine. Vasectomy Procedure This image provides a visual of the male reproductive system showing the continuation from the testes (which are contained within the scrotum) up through the vas deferens and out the urethra. Each vas deferens is cut and sealed in order to prevent sperm from incorporating into the male’s semen. (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc/Amelia St. Peter) During a vasectomy, the vas deferens are either cut, tied, or sealed to prevent sperm from traveling. The sperm, which are produced in the scrotum, usually travel via the vas deferens to be incorporated into a male’s semen for ejaculation. Since these tubes are disrupted, the sperm is no longer able to leave the scrotum. Therefore, the semen no longer contains any sperm which would normally be present and lead to possible fertilization. Typically, the procedure involves a general anesthetic and one or two small incisions near the scrotum in which each vas deferens is pulled through. Doctors will then cut out a small section of each tube and tie the ends back together, sealing the connection with heat. A further blockage forms during recovery as scar tissue builds up. Most vasectomies are reversible, but your chances of success are significantly reduced the longer you've had a vasectomy. Effectiveness When compared to female sterilization, vasectomies tend to be slightly more effective in preventing pregnancy. However, it typically takes around 2-4 months for a patient's semen to become sperm-free. Before that point, there is still a chance for fertilization, so couples should use alternative birth control methods or abstain from sexual intercourse to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. There are tests available to measure the sperm count within a male’s semen sample and confirm that none are present. Overall, there are very few risks involved with a vasectomy, and it is deemed an overall safer procedure than female sterilization. Some patients may experience minor bleeding or infection. However, there are no major risks involved in the procedure. Sexually Transmitted Infections While both female and male sterilization are very effective in preventing pregnancy, they do not prevent sexually transmitted infections and provide no barrier against contracting one. Because of this, individuals should continue to use either an internal or external condom in order to prevent the possible transmission of a sexually transmitted infection. References Sterilization for Women and Men . (2019). Acog.org. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/sterilization-for-women-and-men#:~:text=Sterilization%20is%20a%20permanent%20method,for%20men%20is%20called%20vasectomy Tubal Ligation . (2021). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/tubal-ligation#:~:text=Tubal%20ligation%20is%20surgical%20procedure,fallopian%20tube%20to%20the%20uterus Tubal ligation - Mayo Clinic . (2021). Mayoclinic.org; https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tubal-ligation/about/pac-20388360#:~:text=During%20tubal%20ligation%2C%20the%20fallopian,t%20affect%20your%20menstrual%20cycle

< Return to Open Positions Survey Program Manager We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Survey Program Manager Position Title Please select the requested option Want to apply for a different position? Click here to browse what's available. Have a question about open positions? Contact us at: careers@prismfl.org PRISM relies on the dedicated contributions of volunteers to further its initiatives. The Survey Program Manager oversees the Surveying Department within our Research Task Force. Currently, this is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get : An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBT community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities : Coordinate and develop community needs assessments and other surveying programs Oversee data analysis and reporting of survey data collected by PRISM Coordinate the content, formal review, distribution, promotion, analysis, and reporting of all surveying within PRISM Manage and expand the Survey Participant listserv Qualifications : Institutional review board (IRB) training (preferred) Experience conducting surveying and studies involving human beings Experience with data analysis/statistical reporting Exposure to LGBT issues, sexual health/public health, or gender and sexuality 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

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< 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.

Interested in joining the Youth Support Group? Apply here! < Return to Youth Support Group Youth Support Group Form Interested in joining the Youth Support Group? Apply below! PRISM's LGBTQ+ Youth Support Group is open to youth ages 14-17 who live in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade County. First Name Last Name Preferred Name (If Different) Date of Birth * required Email Phone Street Address City State/Territory Zip Code A few words about you Next