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< 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

< 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 (Wed): 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thurs: Closed Fri: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: Closed Tues: Closed OPEN 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 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.

< 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

< Back to School Policy Hub Josephine Baker Who was Josephine Baker? Early Life Life as an Entertainer Working as a World War II Spy Fighting Against Segregation Death and Legacy Who was Josephine Baker? Josephine Baker on October 20, 1949 (Image Source: Carl Van Vechten, Van Vechten Collection at Library of Congress) Josephine Baker was an American-born French entertainer and performer, French Resistance agent, World War II spy, and civil rights activist. Baker’s career shows the ways entertainers can utilize their platforms to influence society and change the world. Josephine Baker became one of the most successful black performers France has ever seen. While she had four marriages with men, she was bisexual and had several relationships with women. When Hitler and the German army invaded France during World War II, Baker joined the fight against the Nazi regime. She transported secrets she heard while performing for the enemies with invisible ink, wiring messages, and information on her sheet music. Early Life A portrait of Josephine Baker in one of her extravagant performance looks. Baker was known for her unique style both in terms of looks and dance. (Image Source: General Photographic Agency/Getty Images) In the early summer in St. Louis, Missouri, Josephine Baker was born by the name Freda Josephine McDonald on June 3, 1906. Baker was raised by her two parents, who were also performers, and often found herself on stage with them as they performed throughout the Midwest, which was greatly segregated. Like many at the time, Baker’s parents never succeeded in their entertainment careers, forcing Josephine to make ends meet herself. To do this, Baker would often dance in the streets to collect money, much like street performers do in New York and other major cities today. While dancing one day at the age of 15, she was noticed by an African-American theatre troupe and asked to perform with them. Around the same time, Josephine got married, took on her husband's last name, Baker, and claimed her middle name, Josephine, as her first. Thus, she is now known as Josephine Baker. Life as an Entertainer Josephine Baker became among the most popular and sought-after performers, especially in France. Her unique choreography, which embodied traditional African styles and costumes, made her an unforgettable entertainer. Baker starred in many Vaudeville shows, a theatrical style of performance throughout the 20th century. She later moved to New York and immersed herself in the performance seen there. At this time, New York was experiencing the Harlem Renaissance, which was a revival and appreciation of African-American art and entertainment. After her time in New York, Baker moved her entertainment internationally to Paris, where she won over audiences, predominately white ones. Working as a World War II Spy Due to the outbreak of World War II, Josephine's career as a performer was put on hold. With the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, Baker found herself checking off all the boxes the Nazis were against. She was now in her third marriage, an interracial relationship with a French-Jewish man, as an openly bisexual woman. As Hitler and his army invaded their way into Paris, Baker, along with thousands of others, fled the city for her own safety. Once in Southern France, Baker was recruited by Jacques Abtey to take part in espionage for resistance against the Nazis as her celebrity status allowed for easier and more protected travel between countries. Baker was recruited by the French Resistance as a spy during World War II against Hitler and the Nazis. She utilized her celebrity status as well as a variety of espionage tactics in order to gather and spread information regarding the enemy. (Image Source: Studio Harcourt/Public Domain) Josephine Baker housed many other resistance fighters and provided them with the resources they needed. Due to her celebrity status, she was able to attend highly-ranked diplomatic parties and gatherings where she observed and took note of any behaviors or plans she noticed. She would write on her skin, pin notes in her underwear, and use invisible ink on her sheet music in order to record and pass on messages because she knew, as a celebrity, no security would suspect her of espionage or strip search her. Fighting Against Segregation After World War 2, Baker returned home to St. Louis, where she was shocked to see the widespread segregation that she had not fully understood as a child. Baker took it upon herself to stand up to segregation and once again used her platform as an entertainer to make change. Baker refused to perform for any segregated audiences, which often forced venues to integrate audiences if they wanted the prestige of having such a famous performer at their venue. Baker was recognized by the NAACP and was given the honor of speaking at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Death and Legacy Josephine Baker is a prime example of celebrities using their platforms for positive social change. Throughout her career, Baker formed her “rainbow tribe,” which consisted of her 12 adopted children. She showed people could exist in harmony despite racial or cultural differences. Josephine Baker performed late into her life up until her passing on April 12, 1975. Josephine Baker adopted 12 children with varying backgrounds, nationalities, and ethnicities. She called her family the “Rainbow Tribe” and promoted the idea that people can live together and love despite the differences they may have. She fought against segregation and racism and showed that one’s skin color does not determine their worth or need to be loved. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons) References Josephine Baker . (2017). National Women’s History Museum. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/josephine-baker Siren of the Resistance: The Artistry and Espionage of Josephine Baker | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans . (2020, February). The National WWII Museum | New Orleans. https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/siren-resistance-artistry-and-espionage-josephine-baker#:~:text=Iconic%20entertainer%20of%20the%20Jazz,to%20high%2Dranking%20Axis%20officials

< 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 : $40 per post designed 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

< Back to School Policy Hub Outdated Trans Terms Transgender terminology and how it was used as little as a decade ago can now be considered outdated, misinformed, or just plain offensive. That’s why it’s important to stay educated on how certain words and phrases affect different parts of the LGBTQ+ community. You may think this isn't a big deal — they're just words, right? But remember, words have power! Those trying to tell you otherwise are people who probably don't have to worry about words like these being used against them. Here's what not to say: Transgender as a noun/verb Be mindful that using transgender as a noun or verb is often used as a means to dehumanize trans folx. Instead, transgender should only used as an adjective (e.g., trans woman or trans man) Wrong "There are a lot of transgenders on the team." "Is she a transgender?" "He transgendered last year." Right "There are a lot of transgender people on the team." "Is she a trans woman?" "He transitioned last year." "Sex Change" Using “sex change” or “sex reassignment surgery” implies that someone who is trans must have surgery in order to transition properly. Instead, talk about it in terms of “gender-affirming” surgery . By the way, don’t outright ask a trans person if they have undergone surgery. It’s a private matter and should be treated with dignity. "Transvestite" “Transvestite” is an old term that often misrepresents trans people. Historically, it most commonly refers to cisgender men who dress in feminine clothing. Today, that community prefers the term “cross-dresser” and finds “transvestite” to be insulting. Defamatory terms, including “tranny” and “she-male” are highly inappropriate slurs, used to discriminate against and dehumanize trans people. "Transsexual" “Transsexual” is a term used to describe a transgender person who has undergone gender-affirming medical procedures. However, “transsexual” is not an inclusive umbrella term like “transgender” is, as it only describes a trans person who has undergone a surgical procedure to transition. Furthermore, it emphasizes "sex," or a person's genitals. But being trans is about gender, not sex, so "transgender" is far more appropriate. Here's the bottom line: Although some of the terminology mentioned may not be considered offensive to all trans people, it is important to understand the potential impact words may have. Discrimination is not defined by the intent of the speaker, but by the effect it has on the listener. Change begins with you, and adapting your language is the first step to bringing about that change.

< Back to School Policy Hub Earring Magic Ken Origin Story The Aftermath EMK and the Barbie Movie Legacy Earring Magic Ken: Origin Story In the early 1990s, Ken was in trouble. Faced with lackluster sales of the doll, Mattel surveyed five-year-old girls and asked them if they thought Barbie should break up with Ken. The children said that they wanted Ken to stay with Barbie, but he needed to be cooler. This was a common sentiment; if you peruse Ken's past, you'll find plenty of mediocrity and bland choices, styles of the times but no doubt lacking. What happens next in the chain of events is uncertain; some sources say that the surveyed children made demands for Ken's new look, and some suggest that Mattel took it into their own hands. Either route, Mattel arrived at one stop: a brand-new Earring Magic Ken, a part of the Earring Magic Barbie line. Ken wearing his cockring necklace. (Image Source: HSW Static) Ken's makeover consisted of some chunky blonde highlights, a purple mesh shirt, a purple pleather vest, and an earring in his left ear. From Madonna’s dancers to Prince to Ballroom, this look was snatched right out of the queer community, and while appropriation was not new, Ken’s shiny new pendant wasn’t going to lose its roots so easily. Author Dan Savage remarked that the outfit was three-year-old rave couture and that the flashy pendant Ken sported was in fact a cockring. Men wore cockrings on a necklace to signal that they were gay to other people in the know, and some men would wear cockrings secured to their vest: on the right if they are a bottom, and on the left if they are a top. A covert communication system, cockrings soon found their way into fashion, as zipper pulls and accessories for the younger gay crowds that had no care for the code. The Aftermath This was during the AIDS crisis, and nobody wanted any part of queer culture outright. So, when Ken hit the scene as a newly out man, the queer community was thrilled. There had been Gay Bob and Billy Doll, proud gay dolls living in the fringes, but out of nowhere there was a mainstream representation of gay rave culture – albeit white and cis – in a time when plenty of people needed to be seen. However, after six months and record sales, Mattel recalled the doll. Shaving Ken featuring extra-long jorts and all blue accessories. (Image Source: Pic Click) Today, you won't find Earring Magic Ken in Mattel’s archives or even in the company’s vernacular. You will find his body recycled in the beach-themed Barbie line that immediately followed. We can guess that the use of the same doll, sans jewelry, was simply to recoup their investment. The next Ken to come was in 1994: Shaving Ken, a noticeably "straighter" doll with clunkier denim-clad fashion, dark brown hair, and a sturdier disposition. He had a literal beard (pun very much intended) that could be washed away with "aftershave" only to "grow" back in time. For the next several years, Ken was buried in heteronormativity. Earring Magic Ken and the Barbie Movie In Barbie (2023), we get to see a little Earring Magic easter egg; In a scene at Weird Barbie's House, you’ll notice a recalled Ken doll donning a purple leather vest. So while the movie didn't explicitly address the issues surrounding this Ken and Mattel's queer erasure, the fact that this Ken was banished as an outcast speaks for itself. Check out our post about gay Ken's movie cameo here on Instagram . Earring Magic Ken's Legacy The masses wanted more than what was deemed fashionable for straight men. Lisa McKendall, Manager of marketing communications for Mattel at the time, is quoted saying, "We never would have done this a few years ago. But now you see more earrings on men. They are more accepted in day-to-day life. We are trying to keep Ken updated." This demonstrates that Mattel’s design team had the intent to prey upon gay culture for notoriety and profit and only changed their tune because they had stepped too far into queerness. If Ken cannot pass for straight, he cannot exist. If gay men can be indescript about their sexuality, they can be appropriated for normative culture - but if they are too queer, if they pass the boundary that allows others complacency, they are worthless and deserve not only to lose their status but also their identity and their history. Unfortunately, this may be the case for Ken’s namesake, Ken Handler, the son of the creator of Barbie who is rumored to have died because of AIDS complications, with the cause of death allegedly being hidden by his family and the Mattel company. References Dupere, K. (June 29th, 2020). THE TRUE STORY OF MATTEL ACCIDENTALLY RELEASING A SUPER GAY KEN DOLL . In The Know. https://www.intheknow.com/2020/06/29/earring-magic-ken-gay/ Grasso, S. (February 16th, 2018). 20 Fabulous Facts About Ken Dolls . Daily Dot. https://www.dailydot.com/irl/ken-doll-barbie/ Savage, D. (1993). Ken Comes Out. Seattle Stranger . The Baltimore Sun. (1993). Toy industry tinkers with gender bending And Barbie’s Ken sports an earring. The Baltimore Sun .

< Return to STI Clinic Search CAN Community Health - Miami Gardens Call: (786) 800-5631 Website: https://www.cancommunityhealth.org/miami-gardens/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 18360 NW 47th Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33055, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Thurs: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Fri: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tues: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 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 HIV (Lab): $35 Chlamydia : $35 Gonorrhea : $35 Syphilis (Rapid): $35 Hepatitis C (Lab): $35

< Back Kaius LaChapelle Member Kaius LaChapelle (They/Them) graduated from Florida International University (FIU) with a major in international relations with a minor in public policy and service. Since being at FIU, Kaius has been involved in the Pride Student Union, serving as President for the past three years. Kaius was also involved in Student Government Association (SGA) as a Senator for two years, and during their junior year served as Senate President, where Kaius was able to pass numerous pieces of legislation focused on advocacy for marginalized students on campus such as: “Panthers with Disabilities”, “Can’t Ban Us”, “SAFE”, “Equal Restrooms Access”, and “Can’t Ban Us 2.0”. Last year Kaius also co-founded the Disabled Student Union (DSU) and served as Vice President. Kaius is extremely passionate about mutual aid, information sharing, empowering marginalized students, and fostering an inclusive community through coalition building. Kaius was a part of the leadership that created the Student Unity Coalition and Palestine Solidarity and Divestment Coalition. Kaius is now serving as Engage The Vote Campus Coordinator for Engage Florida, where they will continue to build student power within the state of Florida! < Back to Our Team

< 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 Photographer We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Photographer 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 Photographers work on both static shoots and at events to capture the finest moments within our organization. Candidates local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach are strongly preferred. Pay : PRISM pays a specified amount for each gig, which may vary from project to project. Responsibilities : Photograph events, meetings, staff, and products Adhere to all privacy policies and consent requirements Communicate with Visual Designers and other Content Creation Task Force staff and volunteers to consistently meet deadlines Qualifications : Experience with photography and be able to provide a portfolio of prior work. Experience with Photoshop and/or Lightroom is preferred Access to professional-grade gear is preferred. However, PRISM can provide gear to those who need it. 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