< Return to Learn Gender & Sexuality Perfect just the way you are Learn all the ins and outs of gender identity and sexuality Sexual Orientation Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Sexual Orientation Basics Lesbian 1 2 3 4 Gender Identity Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Sex Vs Gender Outdated Trans Terms 1 2 3 4 5 Coming Out Check back soon Once posts are published, you’ll see them here. Respecting LGBTQ+ Boundaries The Importance of Being Out & Proud 1 2 3

< 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 Emergency Contraception What is Emergency Contraception Types of EC Things to Consider Side Effects Conclusion What Is Emergency Contraception (EC)? Consider emergency contraception (EC) your backup plan after unprotected sex or a birth control slip-up. It works by preventing ovulation or fertilization of your egg, and it’s highly recommended that you take it ASAP for the best results. Just remember, it’s not the same as an abortion pill— it won’t work if you’re already pregnant. EC is safe and temporary, but it’s not meant to replace your regular birth control routine. It’s there for emergencies when things don’t go as planned. Let’s look at the different types of EC available. Types Of EC When it comes to emergency contraception, knowing your options can help you make the best decision for your body and situation. There are two primary ways to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex: intrauterine devices (IUDs) or emergency contraception pills. IUDs , like Kyleena, Paragard, or Mirena, can be inserted up to 5 days after sex and are the most effective method, regardless of body weight. However, keep in mind that IUDs can be quite pricey, and depending on your age, doctors may be apprehensive about inserting them. Alternatively, morning-after pills, such as Plan B or ella , can be taken, but they work best the sooner you use them. It’s crucial to act quickly and choose the method that fits your needs. Plan B is easier to access without a prescription but may be less effective if you weigh more than 165 pounds, while ella requires a prescription and may be less effective for those over 195 pounds. "Plan B", One Step, Emergency Contraceptive by Mike Mozart of TheToyChannel and JeepersMedia on YouTube Things To Consider Whether it’s a condom mishap, missed birth control, or unplanned unprotected sex, emergency contraceptives are here to prevent pregnancy. Just remember that EC is not intended to replace regular birth control! And more importantly, emergency contraception doesn't protect against STIs, so make sure you're covered on that front too! When it comes to EC, take action as soon as possible, as timing plays a crucial role in effectiveness. Side Effects While side effects (such as headaches, abdominal pain, or tiredness) may occur from taking EC, they are rarely serious and usually do not last long. Your next period may come early or late, and you may have spotting (light bleeding that happens between menstrual periods). Conclusion At the end of the day, it’s all about being prepared and knowing your options. Whether you choose an IUD or a morning-after pill like Plan B or ella, emergency contraception is there to help when things don’t go as planned. As always, stay informed, stay proactive, and always take control of your health—because your body, your rules. Reference Planned Parenthood / https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/which-kind-emergency-contraception-should-i-use Women’s Health.gov / https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/emergency-contraception

< Back to School Policy Hub Case Studies and FAQs Case Studies and FAQs: Real Students, Real Cases Understanding how legal decisions and enforcement events have played out in real life can help students, parents, and educators assess risk and build a path forward. This article relies exclusively on documented cases and policy enforcement in Florida. Case 1: Adams v. St. Johns County School Board (Florida) In one of the most significant federal cases involving school bathroom access, a transgender student named Drew Adams sued his school district after being told he could no longer use boys’ restrooms at Nease High School. Adams had been using the boys’ facilities without issue until officials forced him to use a gender‑neutral restroom or women's facilities. He challenged this under Title IX and the Equal Protection Clause. Initially, a federal district court ruled that the school must allow him full access. A three-judge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that decision in 2020. However, in a full en banc ruling in December 2022, the 11th Circuit reversed the lower courts, finding that a school bathroom policy based strictly on biological sex did not violate federal law. Takeaway: While earlier courts supported access based on gender identity under Title IX, the final en banc ruling upheld sex-based separation. That ruling remains binding in Florida and neighboring states. Case 2: First Arrest Under Florida’s HB 1521 – Marcy Rheintgen On March 19, 2025, a transgender woman named Marcy Rheintgen was arrested at the Florida State Capitol after using a women’s restroom to wash her hands. She was charged under Florida’s Facility Requirements Based on Sex Act (HB 1521)—the state’s law that criminalizes using restrooms inconsistent with your sex assigned at birth. Prosecutors later dropped the misdemeanor trespassing charge because they failed to file in time. This is the first known enforcement of HB 1521 since it went into effect on July 1, 2023. It highlights the legal risk individuals now face under state law—even when federal law may offer protection. Wikipedia Frequently Asked Questions Can schools require transgender students to use restrooms based on sex assigned at birth? Yes. Under Florida’s HB 1521 and state administrative rules (Rule 6A‑10.086), public schools must require restroom access based on biological sex assigned at birth. The en banc Eleventh Circuit ruling in Adams supports this under current federal law. Can students face legal penalties for refusing state bathroom rules? Yes. HB 1521 makes it a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail or a fine) for a person to remain in a restroom inconsistent with their assigned sex after being asked to leave. The arrest of Marcy Rheintgen demonstrates real-world enforcement. Does Title IX still protect transgender students? Title IX still exists—but the 11th Circuit en banc ruling rejects that identity-based bathroom protections are required under Title IX in Florida. While some federal courts outside the 11th Circuit interpret Title IX more broadly, Florida remains bound by this precedent. Can a school district create more inclusive policies than state law? No. State law overrides district policy. On issues like bathroom access, HB 1521 sets the statewide rules all schools must follow, even if local leaders want to go further. While schools cannot adopt policies that conflict with state law, some may offer case-by-case supports such as single-stall restrooms, private changing areas, or flexible scheduling to help students feel safer. Why This Section Matters These real cases underline a difficult reality: while Title IX protections once seemed to support gender-affirming access, federal precedent now permits restrictive bathroom rules. And under state law, enforcement is real and punishable. Understanding these rulings and legal risks allows families and educators to make informed decisions, document events properly, and pursue remedies when violations occur—or prepare to challenge them.

< Back to School Policy Hub How to Respond to Someone Coming Out What is "coming out"? “Coming Out” is the act of disclosing one’s own sexuality or gender identity to someone. Coming out is different for everyone. Some people come out as soon as they come to a realization about their sexuality or gender identity, while others come out to people slowly, one by one. Read on to find out the best way to handle someone coming out to you. How do I respond to someone coming out? Whether the person coming out is a distant acquaintance or your child, the best way to respond is with respect. We know that learning about this new facet of someone's life can be jarring, especially if you're extremely close to them. However, it's important to acknowledge this information with an open and supportive mindset. Show support While your first instinct may be a shock, understand that the person coming out to you more likely than not put forth a lot of courage to divulge their sexuality or gender identity to you. What's most important is that you welcome their honesty and fulfillment with open arms. Educate yourself, but don't rely on them to do it for you While an eagerness to learn about their experiences or feelings may be flattering, it is not this person's responsibility to give you more information than was offered. It's alright to express curiosity, but don't force them to answer questions they're not comfortable with talking about. You can find all sorts of information about gender and sexuality here . Ask how you can help LGBTQ+ youth and individuals face a whole host of problems beyond their peers. It's important to ask the person coming out to you how you can help them. What should I NOT say? "Why didn't you tell me?" While you may feel betrayed or offended that this person waited until they did to tell you, understand that each person goes about coming out differently. In fact, many people come out to those they care about most later on in life because they are worried about the reaction those people will have and how they will be perceived. No one is entitled to information on someone's gender or sexuality, so simply appreciate that they included you in their coming out journey, wherever they may be in it. "I knew it!" This may seem like a supportive statement, but this is an extremely disrespectful thing for LGBTQ+ people to hear. Many queer youths spend years hiding their sexuality or gender identity out of fear, and pointing out that you "called it" or "knew it the whole time" isn't an accomplishment to brag about. "It's just a phase." Everyone explores their sexuality at different paces and with different experiences. Because of this, sexuality and gender can be fluid and shift. However, trivializing this journey and forcing sexuality onto someone is extremely detrimental. What's most important is that you are supportive, respectful, and understanding of the situation.

< Back to School Policy Hub Pulse Shooting Content Warning: This article discusses a deeply traumatic event. Reader discretion is advised. June 12th, 2016, was a devastating day for the LGBTQ+ community after a tragic shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, FL. Omar Mateen killed 49 people and injured 53 more at the Orlando club. The Pulse nightclub attack remains the second deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. Timeline Pulse was one of the most popular gay clubs in the city, and that Saturday night also happened to be Latin night. 2:02 a.m. Bulletholes in the nightclub the day after the shooting.. (Image Source: Ed Burns/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 ) Early in the morning, the police received reports of shots fired at the club. An off-duty officer attempted to restrain Mateen, but he was unsuccessful and the shooter was able to make his way into the club. Minutes later, police arrived at the scene and exchanged gunfire with the shooter. 2:09 a.m. An alarming post was made on Pulse's Facebook page, stating for “everyone [to] get out of Pulse and keep running.” Unfortunately, this chilling post was not the reality for many of the patrons in the club who became caught in the middle of gunshots. Hours later people were still being held hostage in the club. 5:00 a.m. SWAT teams began breaking down the back wall of the club to help victims escape. They did this through a controlled explosion in order to safely but quickly provide a route to safety for those inside. Eventually, many patrons, including the shooter himself, emerged from the building. Pulse night-club was located on Orange Ave. in Orlando FL. The image above depicts the layout of the club. Manteen entered the club and made his way to the dance floor. He continued around the back of the club and made his way to the restrooms. When police arrived, the wall that was broken down was the one leading to the restroom. (Image Source: Orlando City Planning Division blueprints) 5:15 a.m. Upon Manteen’s exit, a shootout occurred between him and the police, ultimately resulting in his death. Legacy This direct attack on LGBTQ+ and Latinx people continues to cause grief to this day and serves as a constant reminder of the hate and discrimination still faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Five years after the shooting, community members continue to come together at Pulse to celebrate and mourn those who lost their lives on June 12, 2016. Vigils are held and it is a time to advocate for those who were victims of homophobia and gun violence on that tragic night. (Image Source: Walter, FLICKR) LGBTQ + mental health is at a heightened risk following Florida's decision to veto funding and cut approximately “$900,000 in funding for state programs geared toward serving the LGBTQ+ population, including one that provides mental health programs to survivors of the Pulse nightclub shooting..." This decision, on the 2nd day of Pride and just before the 5th anniversary of the Pulse shooting, is a tell-tale sign of the work that needs to continue to be done to support LGBTQ+ communities. References Kelley, A. (2021, June 3). Florida Gov DeSantis vetoes mental health funding for Pulse shooting survivors . TheHill. https://thehill.com/changing-america/respect/diversity-inclusion/556703-florida-gov-desantis-vetoes-mental-health Zambelich, A., & Hurt, A. (2016, June 26). 3 Hours In Orlando: Piecing Together An Attack And Its Aftermath . NPR. https://www.npr.org/2016/06/16/482322488/orlando-shooting-what-happened-update

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Donate now to support PRISM's mission to make South Florida safe for everyone. Donate PRISM allocates 100% of the money it receives towards assisting LGBTQ+ youth in South Florida. Click here to learn more. Supporter $5/month Exclusive members newsletter Thank you card Friend $10/month All benefits from previous tiers Chance to have your personal queer story featured in our donor newsletter Vote on which topics we'll cover in our social media content One-year membership anniversary gift Pride stickers Ally $20/month All benefits from previous tiers Limited edition T-shirt Handmade art prints by queer youth Name on our website (optional) Advocate $50/month All benefits from previous tiers Shoutout on our Instagram feed (optional) PRISM Collector's Item Champion $100/month All benefits from previous tiers 50% off PRISM Gala ticket Name on our parade banner (optional) Back to Donate

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

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

< Back to School Policy Hub IUDs What is an IUD? Types of IUDs Getting an IUD Removing an IUD What is an IUD? IUDs, or Intrauterine Devices, are small, flexible pieces of plastic shaped like a T. They are extremely effective in preventing pregnancy. By extremely effective, we mean over 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable forms of contraception available. This is because IUDs leave no room for error. Unlike condoms, birth control, and many other forms of contraception, you don't need to remember to use them. Because they last for years, you can get an IUD inserted and won't have to worry about it again until it expires. IUDs work by changing how sperm cells move so they can't reach an egg. IUDs do not protect you from STIs Only condoms and dental dams can protect you from STIs. Diagram of a IUD properly set inside the uterus (Image Source: PRISM FL, Inc / Cameron Makris) Types of IUDs There are two different types of IUDs: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Copper IUDs Copper IUDs don't contain hormones. Instead, they're wrapped in copper, which protects from pregnancy for up to 12 years. Sperm doesn't like copper, so it prevents them from getting to an egg. They are effective as soon as you get one inserted. Copper IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception. If you get a copper IUD inserted within 5 days of having unprotected sex, it's over 99.9% effective in preventing pregnancy. These can make your periods heavier and cramps worse. This usually goes away over time, but talk to your doctor if you feel any discomfort or pain. Hormonal IUDs Hormonal IUDs use the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. While it varies depending on the brand, hormonal IUDs generally work for up to 3-7 years. Progestin works to prevent pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the cervix to trap the sperm and sometimes preventing ovulation. These make your periods lighter, and you may stop getting your period at all. If you get a hormonal IUD inserted within the first 7 days of your period, these protect againt pregnancy immediately. If it's inserted at any other point in your cycle, you'll be protected after 7 days. Getting an IUD IUDs have to be inserted by a doctor or nurse. If you have health insurance, you can likely get an IUD for free. When getting an IUD, your doctor will examine your vagina, cervix, and uterus and may test you for STDs. They may offer to numb you before the procedure starts. The nurse or doctor will use a speculum and a special inserter to insert the IUD into your uterus. This normally only takes a few minutes. Some people may feel cramping or pain when getting their IUD inserted, but this is usually brief. Removing an IUD If your IUD is about to expire and you still don't want to get pregnant, or if you want to get pregnant now, you'll need to have your IUD removed. This is usually very simple. Your doctor will gently pull the string, and the IUD's arms will fold up so it can slip out. You may experience cramping, although this should be very brief. Unless you start another form of hormonal birth control, your period will go back to how it was before you got your IUD. You can get pregnant as soon as you get your IUD removed. If your IUD slips partially out or falls out completely (this can happen during the first 3 months), call your doctor immediately. If this happens, you can get pregnant. References IUD Birth Control | Info About Mirena & Paraguard IUDs . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/iud .

< Return to Open Positions Analyst We recommend reading more about our task forces before starting your application. Please select the following option below: Analyst 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. Analysts gather and interpret data in PRISM’s research programs. 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 : Gather information and data related to specific research programs Compile data into interpretable trends and correlations Qualifications : 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