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< Back to School Policy Hub The School To Prison Pipeline What is the School To Prison Pipeline? Historical Context The Devastating Results Case Studies Criminology Impact on Students Abuse of Power Labor Exploitation Conclusion What is the School To Prison Pipeline? The School To Prison Pipeline. It’s a charming little name hiding a deep, dark secret. Racial justice and the myriad of issues surrounding our understanding and conception of race in this country have been at the forefront of our news cycles for years now. The roots of what would eventually become known as the School To Prison Pipeline were planted in the 1970s. Image Source: Unsplash Historical Context Few students (less than four percent in 1973) were sent to out-of-school home suspension, though increasing awareness or fear of crime and violence in schools was growing. This tension applied pressure to state politicians and school districts to adopt policies that necessitated the suspension of students who had a perceived violation of proper conduct. In 1994, the Gun-Free Schools Act was passed, thus striking into law a year-long suspension out of school for any student who was caught bearing a weapon in school. It was called ‘zero-tolerance.’ The Devastating Results Zero-tolerance policies directly resulted in not only a doubling of suspensions since the 1970s, but even downright expulsion. Proponents of these policies may argue this is a good thing—we have to protect our children, right? Critics would say back, however, that these policies are broad, subject to interpretation, and disproportionately affect Black, low-income, and other minority students. Case Studies In Maryland, 2013: A seven-year-old boy was suspended after he chewed a PopTart pastry into a gun shape and aimed the pastry at a friend, apparently endangering his life by way of sugar paste. In 2014, an Ohio boy in the fifth grade was suspended after he pushed his fingers together in the shape of a gun and pretended to shoot one of his classmates. Criminology Part of the problem lies in a classic criminological theory known as ‘the broken windows theory.’ The basic idea is as follows. Neighborhoods with broken windows, loitering, prostitution, etc., are neighborhoods that are uncared for and in a state of decay. Small crimes, such as sex work, smoking marijuana, or other minor offenses, should be the focus of police work, which, in theory, will prevent larger crimes. It was meant to empower local communities, allow the public to take back their spaces, and have police officers prevent major crimes by cracking down on smaller ones. Unfortunately, theory is only ever as good as results. Impact on Students Image Source: Unsplash Though the ‘Broken Windows’ theory was designed to be applied on a larger scale to neighborhoods and communities, its basic principles were being utilized in an already strained and racially separated system: public school. Racial disparities in things like access to education, access to services, and even quality of education had been evident for all to see for decades by this time, but now the problem was compounded. Zero-tolerance policies in schools and suspensions from education disproportionately targeted lower-class and minority school systems. Child ‘offenders’ are routinely taken out of classes for minor infractions or disorderly conduct and transported by police to detention facilities. Lining the hallways of schools and even stationed in classrooms, police officers with guns on their hips observe children wearing Mario-themed backpacks or with Hello Kitty notebooks tucked under their arms as they walk by. Rather than serving as protection, these officers are here to ensure order is maintained and damned be the consequences for the children they are ostensibly there to protect. Abuse of Power In Louisiana, according to Learning for Justice, a complaint was filed with the United States Department of Justice, noting, “school officials have given armed police ‘unfettered authority to stop, frisk, detain, question, search and arrest schoolchildren on and off school grounds.’” In treating children like criminals regardless of whether they have committed an offense or not, we teach them that they are only as good as the system that tells them so. When we push children out of school for minor infractions- some as innocent as forgetting pencils- they end up in the prison system years later as actual criminals. Labor Exploitation This is profitable for states, as the private prison system has boomed in recent decades, making a tidy profit off the labor of incarcerated individuals. Not all of these hardened criminals are adults, either. A healthy number of these so-called ‘crooks’ are children. As Tracie R. Porter from the Arkansas Law Review points out, “‘...The industry of kids-for-cash became so pervasive that [d]etention center workers were told in advance how many juveniles to expect at the end of each day—even before hearings to determine their innocence or guilt.’ Children appeared before the judges following minor crimes such as mocking an assistant principal on a social media page...and stealing DVDs from Wal-Mart.” The need for cheap labor and shrinking government budgets in the face of recessions, pandemics, or even shifts in public attitude means that individuals in prison systems are being used, essentially, as slave labor for as long as their term limits apply. Students being expelled or downright arrested in school equals free labor. Once they are released from whatever minor offense they caused, it is more likely that they will re-offend and end up back in prison than not. Conclusion The Bureau of Justice’s sobering statistics states that two-thirds of released prisoners are arrested again within three years. Data from 2015, according to the Sentencing Project, shows that black students are five times more likely than white students to be incarcerated. With the ever-present tension of racism in our nation, the way we dehumanize black bodies, the way we heavily police neighborhoods and school systems with black students, is it any wonder the outcome for these kids is less than stellar? We are funneling children into a get-rich-quick scheme and pretending that it is somehow in their best interest. Broken windows may be one thing, but we are breaking people.

< Back to School Policy Hub Gender Expression in Asian Cultures Asian and Pacific Islander (API) identities add a unique layer to the gender identity and expression of queer people. Asia has a rich, diverse, and vibrant history of queerness, particularly regarding life outside of the gender binary. Japan China Indonesia India Philippines Japan Then Samurai and Wakashu by Miyagawa Isshō, early 18th century (Source: JSTOR) During Japan's Edo period, gender roles encompassed a “third gender:” the Wakashu . Broadly speaking, Wakashu were born-male youths transitioning between childhood and adulthood. However, their role went beyond a transitory phase - they had their own unique rules, conventions, and styles, and occupied their own societal niche. The transitory nature of being a Wakashu was intertwined with sexuality; Wakashu were socially free from the responsibilities of adulthood but were considered sexually mature. As such, they had sex with both males and females, with social rules dictating them taking a more dominant role with women and a submissive one with men. With the rise of Christian/Victorian ethics from exposure to Western ideals during the Meiji period, the gender binary became more strictly defined, and Wakashu were ridiculed, condemned, or ignored — effectively erasing their societal role. Now In Japan today, there is a resurgence of gender expression outside traditional norms. In the Harajuku district of Tokyo, the “jendaresu-kei”, or genderless style, has gained popularity. There is still a long way to go regarding legislation for individuals who don’t conform to the gender binary. Japan's laws for changing your legal gender , for example, are regressive and invasive and operate under the idea that being transgender is a mental illness. China Then The blurring of the gender binary has a foothold in traditional Chinese opera. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, restrictive gender norms forced opera troupes to be separated by gender, so cross-dressing was necessary to fill gaps in roles. Male actors specializing in playing females were referred to as “nandan”, and were trained to aspire to a feminine ideal. They not only dressed in traditionally feminine clothing, but also were expected to take on the actions, habits, and mindset of a woman both on- and off-stage, occasionally as singing waiters and courtesans . Though this was generally accepted in entertainment, Qing laws criminalized individuals assigned male at birth who lived their lives as women, which could suppress their gender presentation. Renown nanda Mei Lanfang performing Peking Opera (Source: gb.ci.cn) Now Today, for individuals with non-conforming gender identities and expressions, there is no comprehensive anti-discrimination policy, especially one that specifically mentions transgender individuals . Of social institutions, families have the lowest degree of acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals , but there is limited research on public attitudes specifically towards transgender acceptance in China. However, there is growing visibility of transgender individuals , such as Jin Xing, an openly transgender woman, who is one of the most popular talk show hosts in China, and younger generations are growing more accepting. Indonesia Then Indonesia’s pre-colonial era has long been accommodating towards gender diversity. One of the more populous ethnic groups, the Bugis people in South Sulawesi, recognize five genders: man ( oroane ), woman ( makkunrai ), male woman ( calabai ), female man ( calalai ) and androgynous priest ( bissu ). Another ethnic group, the Torajan people, recognize a third gender, or to burake tambolang . To burake tambolang played an important role in spiritual tradition, and people would admire and honor a village with one . However, beginning in the 1950s, bissu and calabi individuals faced violent persecution. Engel, center front, a bissu in the town of Bone in South Sulawesi (Source: Al Jazeera) Now Today, people can legally change their gender ; however, there is no option to change your legal gender to a third gender. Additionally, legal gender changes can be subject to medical opinion , proof of gender reassignment surgery, and family testimony. Additionally, organizations like Latar Nusa are pushing for greater acceptance of bissu and calabi. India Then In Hindu, epic texts like Ramayana and Mahabharata feature multiple heroic characters : Shikhandi, (a key figure in the war in Mahabharata), Chitrangada (whose gender changes through the course of the story), and Vishnu (a god in his female form of Mohini), have presented their gender in fluid ways. Hijras, a third gender, also had recognized roles in ancient India. Mughal emperors were generous patrons of them. Hijras are treated with both fear and respect due to their cultural role in Hindu religious ceremonies; a hijra’s blessings would confer fertility, prosperity, and long life on a baby. A hijra’s curse is also taken seriously, so families often welcome hijras in and pay for their services. With the rise of colonialism and Victorian ethics, hijra became villainized. A group of Hijra in Bangladesh (Source: USAID Bangladesh) Now Today, hijra are marginalized in Indian society, though there has been some progress made. In 2014 , the landmark Indian Supreme Court case National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) v. Union of India established the legal recognition of the “third gender.” However, the verdict lumps in hijra and transgender individuals, who aren’t necessarily of the same identity. India also has a 2016 transgender bill; however, this bill doesn’t allow an individual to self-identify as trans without medical confirmation . Philippines Then The Tansug people of the Southern Philippines believed in a third gender called bakla , a Tagalog sexual/gender category that refers to individuals assigned male at birth who exhibit or are suspected of exhibiting sexual and gender non-normative behavior. They can be considered a Filipino “third gender.” Oftentimes, they served as babalayan , or shamans, who were either women or effeminate men called bayog (Tagalog) or asog (Visayan). They had important roles as the healers of both natural and spiritual illness, assisted in rituals for prayer, birth, and death, and overall, were respected members of the community who were held on the same level as the ruling class. Bakla Protester During Pride March (Source: Arvinjaygaa - Own work) Now Today, trans Filipinos face barriers legally in accessing social institutions like education and healthcare and in seeking justice. Though no national laws exist prohibiting cross-gender behavior, individuals still may be turned away from establishments without facing recourse. Resources Aggleton, P. (2006). Men who sell sex international perspectives on male prostitution and HIV/AIDS . Taylor and Francis. Anderson, M. (2016, August 15). Beyond binary: Five genders of the bugis . Akkadium College. https://learn.akkadium.com/beyond-binary-five-genders-of-the-bugis/ Bohnke, C. (2021, December 22). The disappearance of japan’s “third gender” - JSTOR daily . The Disappearance of Japan’s “Third Gender.” https://daily.jstor.org/the-disappearance-of-japans-third-gender/ Cornell, T. (2019, August 20). Nandan: The Yin & Yang of Chinese cross-gender performers > culturs - lifestyle media for cross-cultural Identity . CULTURS. https://www.cultursmag.com/nandan/ Hijras and the legacy of British colonial rule in India . Engenderings. (2019, June 17). https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/gender/2019/06/17/hijras-and-the-legacy-of-british-colonial-rule-in-india/ Hinduism Case Study. (2018). The third gender and Hijras . Religion and Public Life at Harvard Divinity School. https://rpl.hds.harvard.edu/religion-context/case-studies/gender/third-gender-and-hijras The human rights situation of transgender people in the Philippines Submission of the Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP) to the 13th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review . . (n.d.). https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/lib-docs/HRBodies/UPR/Documents/session13/PH/JS1_UPR_PHL_S13_2012_JointSubmission1_E.pdf Knight, K. (2023, March 28). “A really high hurdle.” Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/03/20/really-high-hurdle/japans-abusive-transgender-legal-recognition-process Luhur, W., Brown, T., Liu, M., & Shaw, A. (2021, June). Public opinion - williams institute . Williams Institute. https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/Public-Opinion-Trans-Mexico-English-Dec-2020.pdf Nooy-Palm, H. (1979). The sa’dan toraja: A study of their social life and religion . Oxis. https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/3BBC444821210944F0E9579A28009215/S0041977X00105014a.pdf/hetty_nooypalm_the_sadan_toraja_a_study_of_their_social_life_and_religion_vol_i_organization_symbols_and_beliefs_verhandelingen_van_het_koninklijk_instituut_voor_taal_land_en_volkenkunde_87_xii_338_pp_16_plates_the_hague_martinus_nijhoff_1979.pdf Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. (2021, April 8). Ang babaylan nga nahimong bayot. Babaylan. https://smithsonianapa.org/babaylan/#:~:text=(The%20healer),through%20herbs%2C%20remedies%20and%20antidotes. Stables, D. (2022, February 25). Asia’s isle of five separate genders . BBC Travel. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210411-asias-isle-of-five-separate-genders Stanford The Clayman Institute for Gender Research. (2022, July 27). The persecution of M-F crossing in Imperial China . The Clayman Institute for Gender Research. https://gender.stanford.edu/news/persecution-m-f-crossing-imperial-china Stonewall. (2021, July 1). Global workplace briefings . Stonewall. https://www.stonewall.org.uk/global-workplace-briefings Tian, C. (2018, August 29). What Chinese opera can teach us about gender . Sixth Tone. https://www.sixthtone.com/news/1002838 Tiwari, A., & Pal, K. (2020). Journey of Gender Identity in India from Mythology to the Third Gender. Palarch’s Journal Of Archaeology Of Egypt/Egyptology , 17 (6), 20–28. UNDP and China Women’s University. (2018). Legal gender recognition in China - United Nations Development Programme. https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/asia_pacific_rbap/UNDP-CH-Legal-gender-recognition---China-180805.pdf Universal Periodic Review. (2017). Joint Submission of the Civic Society Organisations on the Situation of LGBTIQ Persons in the Philippines . The ASEAN SOGIE Caucus - the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus. https://aseansogiecaucus.org/images/resources/upr-reports/Philippines/Philippines-UPR-JointReport-3rdCycle.pdf Wemer, D. (2020, December 22). India’s hijras find themselves further marginalized amid the pandemic . Atlantic Council. https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/indias-hijras-find-themselves-further-marginalized-amid-the-pandemic/ Wu, G. (2016). Mustache as resistance: Representation and reception of Mei Lanfang’s masculinity. TDR/The Drama Review , 60 (2), 122–138. https://doi.org/10.1162/dram_a_00551

< Return to STI Clinic Search Care Resource Community Health Centers - Midtown Call: (305) 576-1234 Website: https://careresource.org/testing-hours-locations/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 3510 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33137, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 8:00 a.m. - 6:15 p.m. Thurs: 8:15 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. Fri: 8:15 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 8:00 a.m. - 6:15 p.m. Tues: 8:00 a.m. - 6:15 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): Free Chlamydia : Free Gonorrhea : Free Syphilis (Lab): Free Hepatitis C (Rapid): Free

< Return to Open Positions Research Director We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Research Director 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 Research Director oversees our Research Task Force, which conducts internal and external surveying and data collection and coordinates non-educational STI prevention programs. 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: Develop and oversee the operations of the Research Task Force (STI Clinic Search, STI Clinic Vetting Program, surveying, data analysis, etc.) Coordinate community service logs, payroll, and attendance logs Assist in securing grant funding for the Research Task Force by searching and applying for grants Preferred qualifications : Experience with data analysis and surveying Experience with STI prevention or public health services Experience working with research involving human beings Volunteer and staff management experience Prior research regarding nonprofit program efficacy or public health services Grant writing 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 Lesbian Being a Lesbian History (Ancient) History (Modern) Issues Symbols What Does it Mean to be a Lesbian? The term lesbian is commonly used by women who are exclusively attracted to other women. However, in recent years, the definition of lesbian identity has undergone a transformation, reflecting a broader understanding of gender and inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community. Traditionally defined as a woman exclusively attracted to other women, the scope of lesbian identity is expanding to be more inclusive of non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. Some now describe a lesbian as a "non-male who is attracted solely to women." This adjustment aims to recognize and validate the experiences of non-binary and gender-nonconforming (GNC) individuals who identify with the lesbian community. Lesbian History (Ancient) Sappho - The Original Lesbian Sappho and Erinna in a Garden at Mytilene (Source: Simeon Solomon, 1864) Perhaps one of the most iconic lesbians in history is Sappho of Lesbos. An ancient Greek poet from the 600s BCE, Sappho's works are passionate, emotional, and filled with vivid descriptions of love and longing. Her poems 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. While scholars may debate the translations of these lyrics and their meaning, Sappho's iconic work inspired the terms "lesbian" and "sapphic" as words to describe love and attraction between women. Other Parts of the World Just like with male homosexuality, female homosexuality is documented around the world. from Ancient Egypt, where women were said to cast "love spells" on other women, to early Imperial China, where lesbian couples were given the term " duìshí," which translates to "paired eating." The Scarcity of Lesbians in History Unfortunately, female homosexuality has overall been documented far less than male homosexuality. Does this mean lesbians were more scarce than gay men? Maybe. But when you consider the prevalence of systemic misogyny in cultures all over the world, you have to wonder if the real issue is not the lack of women attracted to women, but the lack of desire for historians to write about them. Women were also expected and pressured to adhere to gender roles more strongly than men; while men could easily "get away" with non-traditional relationships, women would not be afforded the same privilege. In the end, misogyny is likely a significant factor in society's lack of historical lesbian visibility. Lesbian History (Modern) Lesbians played a vital role in the 1950s-1970s American LGBTQ+ rights movement. As early as 1955, the first lesbian social and political organization was established in the form of the Daughters of Bilitis . This group helped to bring lesbian issues into mainstream culture, having launched its own monthly magazine and appeared on a national radio broadcast. DeLaverie in her iconic drag look In 1969, a " typical New York butch" is said to have kicked off the riot at the Stonewall Inn while resisting a violent arrest and demanding the onlooking crowd "do something." Famous lesbian performer Storme DeLaverie is sometimes credited as the "butch" who started it all. The 1970s were pivotal for queer rights activism, and lesbians played major roles in these movements. On May 1, 1970, a group of radical lesbian feminists forever changed the feminist movement . During the Second Congress to Unite Women in New York City, organizations like the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) and the National Organization for Women (NOW) gathered to discuss feminist rights. Suddenly, the auditorium's lights were suddenly cut, shocking the crowd, and eerie laughter was heard throughout the audience. When the lights came back on, lesbian activists stormed the stage. Bold text on shirts was displayed saying "Lavender Menace." Armed with signs that read, "We are your worst nightmare, your best fantasy," historical figures like Rita Mae Brown, Karla Jay, and Martha Shelley took to the stage for over two hours to fight for lesbian inclusivity in feminism. In 1971, NOW officially adopted lesbian rights as part of its agenda . The AIDS Crisis When gay men were banned from donating blood during the AIDS crisis, lesbians stepped in to offset the decrease in the amount of blood available for transfusions. They are a vital part of AIDS history and a group of lesbians that helped reduce the effects of the blood ban. A major way lesbians helped during the AIDS crisis was through volunteer work in hospitals. It was difficult for hospitalized AIDS patients to receive adequate care as doctors and nurses refused to treat them for fear of the virus. The result? A large number of lesbians with medical backgrounds began lending their time in hospitals to help those who were not being properly taken care of. An ACT UP demonstration at the National Institutes of Health (Public Domain) One activist who helped pave the road to a more unified LGBTQ+ community was activist Maxine Wolfe. Wolfe hosted “Dyke Dinners” to create spaces for lesbians to voice their frustrations with the various ways HIV-positive women — most of whom were women of color — were being excluded from AIDS activism. Their voices caused a stir and were the start of lesbians creating real legislative change. Lesbians in the 1990s were caretakers, activists, protesters, lawyers, artists and historians. They had range! Lesbian Issues Homophobia/Lesbophobia Homophobia refers to prejudice, discrimination, or hatred towards people who experience same-gender attraction. It encompasses various forms of bigotry, ranging from verbal harassment and social exclusion to physical violence and legal discrimination. Lesbophobia is a kind of homophobia that specifically targets lesbians. Unlike homophobia, lesbophobia frequently comes from both outside and inside the LGBTQ+ community. Oftentimes, lesbophobia within the community stems from misogyny (prejudice against women). Heteronormativity This is the belief that heterosexuality, or the attraction to the opposite sex on the gender binary, is the normal or default sexual orientation. It assumes that sexual and marital relations are most fitting between people of the opposite sex. Heterosexism This is a system of attitudes, bias, and discrimination in favor of opposite-sex sexuality and relationships. It includes the presumption that other people are heterosexual or that opposite-sex attractions and relationships are the only norm and, therefore, superior. While all members of the LGBTQ+ community face homophobia, gays and lesbians deal with heteronormativity and heterosexism to a different extent. Other members of the LGBTQ+ community can face these problems, but they are most prevalent with gays and lesbians. Lesbian Symbols Lesbian Flag The labrys lesbian flag was created in 1999 by Sean Campbell. It included a labrys, which was a common symbol of empowerment adopted by the lesbian feminist community in the 1970s, on top of the inverted black triangle used during the Holocaust over a violet background. The Lipstick Lesbian flag was introduced on the blog “This Lesbian Life” in 2010. This was later adapted to a variation without the lipstick mark in the top left-hand corner. However, many lesbians oppose the Lipstick Lesbian flag and its derivative due to butch-phobic, biphobic, transphobic, and racist comments on the blog of the original designer, Natalie McGray. This led to a new lesbian pride flag, designed by Emily Gwen in 2018, which uses different colors to represent a wider range of individuals within the lesbian community. PRISM uses a simplified version of this updated pride flag on its PRISM Pride collection with five colors rather than seven. References A short guide to lesbian identity. Rainbow & Co. (2021, July 2). https://rainbowandco.uk/blogs/what-were-saying/a-short-guide-to-lesbian-identity Boehringer, S. (2021, September 7). Female Homosexuality in Ancient Greece and Rome (1st ed.). Routledge. Brekke, K. (2017, April 4). How lesbians' role in the AIDS crisis brought gay men and women together . HuffPost. Retrieved December 8, 2022, from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/aids-crisis-lesbians_n_5616867ae4b0e66ad4c6a7c4 Oxford University. (n.d.). Heteronormative Meaning . Lexico Dictionaries. https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/heteronormative . Oxford University. (n.d.). Heterosexism Meaning . Lexico Dictionaries. https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/heterosexism . Siclait, A. (2021, June 15). What The Lesbian Pride Flag Means And Where It Comes From . Women's Health. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/a36523338/lesbian-pride-flag-meaning/ . Sylvester, E. (2023, April 25). The complexities of lesbian visibility. The Trevor Project. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/the-complexities-of-lesbian-visibility/ The act up historical archive: The tactics of early act up (interviews of Maxine Wolfe). (n.d.). Retrieved December 8, 2022, from https://actupny.org/documents/earlytactics.html Understanding gay & lesbian identities. The Trevor Project. (2022, October 26). https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/understanding-gay-lesbian-identities

< Back to School Policy Hub How to Report Violations How to Report Violations and Stand Up for Your Rights When a student’s rights are violated at school—whether it’s misgendering, being denied bathroom access, having a GSA silenced, or witnessing censorship—it can feel overwhelming. But students, parents, and teachers are not powerless. There are systems in place for reporting harm and holding schools accountable. The process is not always easy or fast, but it matters. Knowing how to document what happened and where to bring your complaint is the first step in making sure your voice is heard. Start with Documentation The moment something happens that feels wrong, write it down. Whether it’s a conversation, a denial of access, or a disciplinary action, keeping a record is key. Include: Date, time, and location Names of staff or students involved A clear description of what happened Screenshots or emails, if relevant Even a short summary can be valuable. If you feel unsafe doing this alone, ask a friend, GSA advisor, or trusted adult to help you document what occurred. Report to Your School Most school districts require that complaints start at the school level. This may involve submitting a written statement to your principal, guidance counselor, or designated Title IX Coordinator. Every school district is required to have someone in that role, even if their contact information isn’t easy to find. Miami-Dade: District Title IX Coordinator Ms. Nicole B. Rutherford (305) 995-1580 nrobertson@dadeschools.net Broward: District Title IX Coordinator Wladimir G. Alvarez (754) 321-2150 wladimir.alvarez@browardschools.com Palm Beach: District Title IX Coordinator Eunice Vivar (561) 792-8686 TitleIX@palmbeachschools.org Request a response in writing. If the school does not follow up within a reasonable time, typically ten business days, you can escalate. In cases where school policy itself is the problem—for example, if your district refuses to recognize GSAs, denies bathroom access, or has adopted discriminatory curriculum rules—you can also file a complaint with the Florida Department of Education. But be aware: the state has backed many of these rollbacks, so outcomes may vary. Use Federal Civil Rights Protections If your situation involves discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability, you can file a federal civil rights complaint. This includes: Title IX for sex-based discrimination, including anti-LGBTQ+ harassment or denial of access Section 504 or Title II of the ADA for disability-related issues Title VI for racial or ethnic discrimination These complaints go through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). You do not need a lawyer, and there is no cost to file. Complaints must typically be submitted within 180 days of the incident. You can file online here: https://ocrcas.ed.gov Why Reporting Matters Filing a complaint doesn’t always lead to an immediate fix. But it creates a record. It signals that students and families are paying attention. It can lead to investigations, policy changes, and accountability—even if it takes time. It also shows other students that they’re not alone. Some of the most important changes in school policy happen not through new laws, but because someone filed a complaint, told their story, and refused to accept silence. PRISM Can Help If you’re not sure where to start, PRISM is here to walk you through it. We can help draft complaints, identify the right contact, and provide support throughout the process. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, you do not have to navigate this alone. When your rights are violated, speaking up is an act of courage—and a step toward something better.

< 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 .

< Return to Open Positions STI Clinic Search Manager We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: STI Clinic Search 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 STI Clinic Search within our Research Task Force. Currently, this is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get: An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities: Expand and maintain PRISM’s database of free and low-cost STI testing centers Oversee the STI Clinic Vetting program and its volunteers Recruit testing sites for the Certified Partner Program and ensure they meet and maintain all requirements for participation Qualifications: Experience with STI testing, prevention, or outreach Experience with Google Suite (Sheets, Docs, Slides, etc.) Management experience preferred 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

< 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

In March 2022, Florida passed HB1557, the "Parental Rights in Education" bill, into law. Among advocates and activists, the law is referred to as "Don't Say LGBTQ" because it heinously restricts and censors queerness in schools. Don't Say LGBTQ+ Florida has signed "Don't Say LGBTQ+" into law. Here's what the law is, what it does, and how PRISM is fighting back. What is "Don't Say LGBTQ+"? The Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law , or the Parental Rights in Education Act (HB 1557), bans classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in certain grade levels or in a specified manner. What began as a ban in K-3rd grade was then expanded to K-8 with the passage of HB 1069 last year. However, the biggest effect of the bill lies in its vague and ambiguous language- and that’s by design. Many teachers and school staff felt it was best to fully avoid the conversation than to risk accidentally violating the law. The Settlement In March of this year, a legal settlement clarified what restrictions are imposed by the Don't Say LGBTQ+ Law. Here's what that included: LGBTQ+ in the Classroom Students and teachers can now discuss LGBTQ+ issues. However, teachers cannot provide lessons or instruction on gender or sexual orientation. References to LGBTQ+ people, relationships, and families are allowed, and students can discuss LGBTQ+ issues and history in school assignments. Representation LGBTQ+ teachers are also allowed to display pictures of their same-sex spouses, and teachers can keep up safe space signage and stickers to show support (including pride flags). Books Back on Shelves This agreement clarified that books featuring LGBTQ+ characters can be accessible in school libraries. Though they cannot be studied in the classroom as part of a lesson on gender identity and sexual orientation, the books are now accessible to students. LGBTQ+ Student Organizations GSAs are protected, providing students with essential support and advocacy spaces. Additionally, participation in and support of LGBTQ+ student clubs and cultural presentations remain unaffected. Responding to supporters of the bill: It can be exhausting to fight Internet trolls on this left and right, so we've got you covered. PRISM has broken down all of the myths that have been thrown around to support this harmful piece of legislation. Don’t worry, our sources are cited. You can also catch these as one, complete video on our TikTok page . Join us in fighting back. Just because the law has passed doesn't mean there aren't ways to fight back. Keep an eye on our Upcoming Events , because we regularly plan protests and speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation during school board meetings.

< Return to STI Clinic Search AHF Healthcare Center - Coconut Grove Call: (786) 497-4000 Website: https://www.hivcare.org/locations/fl-coconut-grove/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 3661 S Miami Ave #806, Miami, FL 33133, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Thurs: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Fri: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sat: Closed Sun: Closed Mon: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tues: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV

< Return to Open Positions Youth Advisory Committee We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Youth Advisory Committee 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 The Board of Directors is the head of PRISM, making all of the final decisions regarding events, fundraising and more! The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) advises our Board on how to best serve young people in South Florida by uplifting the voices of young people themselves! This is an unpaid volunteer position. What you get : An opportunity to make a difference in the LGBTQ+ community, improve your leadership skills, a chance to make an impact, and a new experience to add to your resume. Responsibilities: Attend monthly YAC meetings Review all items introduced by the Board of Directors and make recommendations Ensure that PRISM is carrying out its overall mission Required Qualifications: 14-18 years old by July 10th, 2024 Local to Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach (Strongly Preferred) Preferred Qualifications: Experience with LGBT advocacy, student organizing, or content creation Knowledge of parliamentary procedure Qualities We’re Looking For: Detail-oriented Creative and willing to improve upon our existing structures, designs, and philosophies Reliable Collaborative 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