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So, someone just came out to you as transgender. We've provided some helpful resources to break it down! < Return to Resources So, someone just came out to you as Transgender What does that mean, and how should you respond? We've provided some helpful resources below to break it down! So, someone just came out to you. You may be feeling a lot of things, and trust us, that's completely normal. We've put together a collection of some of our resources below to process and understand, as well as some extra ways to show your support! Sex Vs Gender Learn the differences between sex, gender identity, and gender expression. Maxx Fenning Outdated Trans Terms Learn about how to respectfully refer to trans folx and the transgender community. PRISM Inc. Gender-Affirming Care Gender-affirming care refers to a range of support systems that help trans folx achieve lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves. PRISM Inc. 1 2 3 The Basics History Gender Expression in Asian Cultures East Asia has a vibrant history of queerness, particularly regarding life outside of the gender binary. PRISM Inc. The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Lex Costello Homosexuality in the Pre-colonial Americas Learn about how homosexuality is intrinsically linked with the diverse gender structure of native tribes. PRISM Inc. 1 2 3 Transgender Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Transgender Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Transgender Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Transgender Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Transgender Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Transgender Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Transgender Price $45.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Bomber Jacket: Transgender Price $68.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Hoodie: Transgender Price $59.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Leggings: Transgender Price $37.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Plus Size Leggings: Transgender Price $42.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Socks: Transgender Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Fanny Pack: Transgender Price $34.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Pillow Case: Transgender Price $22.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sticker: Transgender Price $2.50

< Back to School Policy Hub Transgender What Does Transgender Mean? What is Gender? Transgender Issues What Not to Say Transitioning Trans Symbols How to Get Support What Does Transgender Mean? Transgender individuals are people whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Conversely, "cisgender" describes a person whose gender identity does align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender is also an umbrella term used to describe many different identities: non-binary , demi-gender, gender non-conforming, trans-masc or femme, transgender man, bigender, agender, and more. What is Gender? Gender is a combination of social, emotional, and cultural ideas that define how humans interact with each other. These can be broken down into two sectors: gender identity and gender expression. Gender Identity Gender identity is how you perceive yourself on the gender spectrum. This can fall anywhere on the gender spectrum and is not limited to male or female. Gender Expression Gender expression is how you display yourself outwardly. This can include the clothes you wear, how you style your hair, or even how you talk. You can learn more about gender identity and expression here . Transgender Issues Transgender people can face many different problems, such as transphobia, gender dysphoria, and deadnaming. Gender Dysphoria This condition, formerly known as Gender Identity Disorder, is the distress a person may feel as a result of their emotional and psychological identity not coinciding with their biological sex. One of the earliest signs of knowing one is transgender is feeling gender dysphoria. Feelings or signs of gender dysphoria are, but are not limited to: A certainty that your gender identity conflicts with your biological sex You only feel comfortable when in the gender role of your preferred identity (may include non-binary) A strong desire to hide or be rid of physical signs of your biological sex, such as breasts or body hair A strong dislike of the genitals you were born with You may feel lonely or isolated from others. You may also face pressure from friends, classmates, coworkers, or family to behave a certain way. It’s important to note that you don’t need to experience gender dysphoria to be transgender. Not all transgender people experience gender dysphoria. Transphobia Transphobia encompasses a range of negative attitudes, feelings, or actions toward transgender people or transness in general. Transphobia can include fear, aversion, hatred, violence, anger, or discomfort felt or expressed towards people who do not conform to social gender expectations. Just like gay or lesbian individuals can deal with homophobia, transgender people can deal with transphobia daily. Transphobia can lead to depression, a greater feeling of gender dysphoria, and a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem. Misgendering and Deadnaming Misgendering is using a former pronoun of a transgender or non-binary person. Deadnaming is using a transgender or non-binary person’s former name. Intentionally deadnaming or misgendering is highly inappropriate and harmful. However, in some cases, deadnaming or misgendering can be accidental. If you knew a transgender person before they discovered their gender identity, you might be used to referring to them by their old pronouns and deadname. It might be a force of habit to refer to someone by their old identity. However, it is still wrong, even if it is accidental. If you accidentally refer to a transgender person by their old identity, name, or pronouns, simply apologize and correct yourself. What Not to Say If a transgender person discovers themself, even if they have not elected to gender reassignment surgery or hormone replacement therapy, never refer to them as their previous gender identity. For example, someone named David goes down the road of discovery and finds out that they are transgender. David’s new name is Dalia, and they now go by she/her and Dalia only. You should never say: “Dalia was a guy before, and her name was David.” “David was born a man but turned into a girl.” “Dalia is biologically male.” It’s important to note that Dalia was never a man; she was only assigned male at birth. If you want to mention Dalia’s transition (with her permission, of course), consider saying: “Dalia was assigned male at birth, but she now identifies as female.” “Dalia is a transgender woman.” Dalia is also not a drag queen, a transvestite, a transsexual, or "a transgender." To learn about these terms and why they are inaccurate and, oftentimes, offensive, see our Outdated Trans Terms article. Avoid focusing on someone’s transition or presentation. A common term you may hear when discussing transgender people is “passing” or “stealth.” This describes someone who presents themselves in such a way that you “can’t tell” that they’re transgender. Using these terms without a transgender person’s permission is wrong for several reasons. Not only does it imply that transgender people need to physically transform in order to be valid, it also reinforces dangerous gender norms . Ultimately, it's harmful to make a transgender person feel like they are “passing as something they’re not” or “tricking” people. Transitioning Transgender people may use various medical and non-medical interventions or procedures to alter their bodies in a way that aligns with their gender identity. However, it is important to note that not all transgender people do this, and it is not required to be transgender. These interventions and procedures are part of a greater support system known as gender-affirming care (GAC) . You can learn about the many different kinds of GAC, like hormone therapy and surgery, in our Gender-Affirming Care article. Transgender Symbols Transgender Gender Symbol The transgender gender symbol is a combination of the gender symbols for male and female. An alternate version also integrates the symbol for genderqueer. The transgender gender symbol. The transgender gender symbol including the genderqueer symbol. Transgender Flag Transgender Pride Flag (1999) A very prominent symbol of the transgender community, this flag was first designed by transgender woman Monica Helms in 1999 and first used in 2000 at a pride parade in Phoenix, Arizona. Blue represents boys, pink represents girls, and white represents those who are transitioning, intersex, or consider themselves as having an unidentified gender. Black Transgender Pride Flag (2015) Black Transgender Flag A symbol of the transgender community specifically made for Black trans people, this flag was designed by Raquel Willis and first used in 2015. The colors have the same meaning as the more commonly used flag, except the black is meant to symbolize the high levels of transphobia, violence, and racism directed towards Black members of the trans community, especially Black trans women. How to Get Support You always deserve support. We know that the journey to discovering one's self can be a difficult one with plenty of bumps and setbacks and crying-in-the-showers. That's perfectly normal! Just remember that there's an entire community behind you; others have been in your shoes and have felt the same fear, uncertainty, and anxiety. We get it, and we're here for you. If you need help or are struggling to find support, check out our Where To Find Support article. References NHS website. (2021, April 20). Signs. Nhs.Uk. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gender-dysphoria/symptoms/ Chakraborti, N. C., & Jon Garland, J. G. (2009). Hate crime : impact, causes and responses : Chakraborti, Neil : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/hatecrimeimpactc00neil/mode/1up Leonard, J. (2019, October 9). What to know about female-to-male surgery. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326590#:%7E:text=Female%2Dto%2Dmale%20surgery%20is,known%20as%20%E2%80%9Cbottom%E2%80%9D%20surgery What is gender reassignment surgery? (2018, September 21). ISSM. https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/what-is-gender-reassignment-surgery/ What Are Appropriate Labels & Terms For Transgender People? (n.d.). Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender/transgender-identity-terms-and-labels GLAAD Media Reference Guide - Transgender. (2021, March 29). GLAAD. https://www.glaad.org/reference/transgender Lopez, G. (2015, February 18). Why you should always use “transgender” instead of “transgendered.” Vox. https://www.vox.com/2015/2/18/8055691/transgender-transgendered-tnr

< Back to School Policy Hub Chlamydia What is Chlamydia? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive What is Chlamydia? Chlamydia is an easily curable bacterial infection. It is one of the most common STIs. When we say common, we mean REALLY common. ' Around 1.8 MILLION cases of Chlamydia were reported to the CDC in 2019 (mostly between 14 and 24 years old), making it the most commonly reported STI in the US. However, it’s estimated that closer to 3 million people actually contract chlamydia every year in America. Chlamydia is easily treatable. Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics. The sooner you find out you have it, the easier it is to cure. How It's Spread Chlamydia can be spread even if no one ejaculates. Chlamydia is carried in semen, pre-cum, and vaginal fluids. It can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, eyes, and throat. Generally, this happens through vaginal sex or anal sex. In rare cases, chlamydia can be spread through oral sex, too. Symptoms Part of the reason chlamydia is so common is that there usually are no symptoms . However, some signs can show up: unusual vaginal discharge watery discharge from the penis bleeding outside of periods pain or burning while peeing swollen or tender testicles Chlamydia can also infect your eyes. If this happens, you may notice irritation, redness, or discharge. Getting Tested Testing for chlamydia is generally simple and painless. Often, this just means peeing in a cup. In the case of other infected areas, your doctor may take samples from your throat, vagina, cervix, urethra, or anus with a cotton swab to test for bacteria. Because symptoms for chlamydia and gonorrhea are similar, you'll often be tested for both at the same time. It's important to get tested regularly. If you're sexually active, this means at least once per year. Even if you or your partner don't show symptoms, you should follow this general rule of thumb. Seriously. If left untreated for too long, chlamydia can cause infertility and increase your risk of getting HIV. If you're pregnant, you could also pass it to your baby or have a premature delivery. So, do you and your partner a HUGE favor and put your minds at ease. Click here to find a local testing c enter . Tested Positive So, your results came back positive. The first thing to remember is that this is nothing to be ashamed of. Like we said earlier, this is a very, very common infection. If you or your partner have chlamydia, it does not necessarily mean anyone cheated. Test results may not detect the infection until well after contracting it. How do I get rid of it? Luckily, chlamydia is easily treatable with antibiotics. There are different forms of antibiotics that are used to treat chlamydia, so make sure to follow the instructions from your doctor. Often, your doctor may give you medicine for both you and your partner(s). It is important that BOTH of you finish your treatment and don't have sex for at least 7 days. For real, getting frisky can wait. If you don't take your antibiotics all the way through, you run the risk of re-infecting your partner or other people. Willingly risking your or your partner's sexual health isn't sexy. Peace of mind is sexy. Always make sure to listen to your doctor to effectively get rid of chlamydia. References What is Chlamydia?: Causes of Chlamydia Infection . Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/chlamydia . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance 2019 . U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2019/overview.htm#Chlamydia .

< Back to School Policy Hub Affirmed Names and Pronouns New year, new schedule, new... school policies to decode? The start of the school year is stressful enough without deciphering confusing district policy. At PRISM, we believe every student deserves to be seen as their authentic self, and it starts with navigating name and pronoun changes smoothly. We’ve put together a guide for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach schools, with all the forms, policies, and even a ready-to-send email template – because supporting students shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. What’s the same in all districts? According to state law, schools cannot force teachers or students to use someone’s affirmed pronouns. However, teachers still have the option to use a student’s affirmed pronouns. Parents must give permission for a student to use a different name at school (except Miami-Dade students over the age of 18). Affirmed names can be used in school systems and non-legal documents after written consent is given by a parent or legal guardian. Legal names and gender stay the same unless changed by a court order or updated birth certificate. What’s different between districts? Miami-Dade County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Students over 18 can request changes without parent permission. Fill out Form FM5626 for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Broward County Teachers can use a student’s affirmed name and pronouns, but only if a parent or legal guardian gives written permission. Unlike other districts, there’s no explicitly stated extra FERPA protection. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. For names: Broward Emergency Contact Card (Must be completed annually) For pronouns: PreK-12 Preferred Title Title and Pronoun Request Form Palm Beach County Teachers don't need parental permission to use a student's affirmed pronouns. Sharing a student’s birth name/sex without permission could break FERPA laws. Even if a student is 18+, parents must still give permission. Fill out Palm Beach Form PBSD 2688 - Student Registration for a student’s affirmed name to be used in non-legal documents. Email Template Under state law, teachers can't ask students for their pronouns – but students can still provide them to affirming teachers. Below are template emails students can use to inform their teachers or submit name/pronoun forms. To Teachers Subject: Introducing Myself Dear [Professor/Teacher name]: My name is [preferred name], and I will be attending your [name of course] class this year. I am contacting you to let you know that my name will show up on your roster as [legal name], but I would prefer to go by [preferred name] and [your pronouns] pronouns. I identify as [your gender identity] and do not identify with my legal name. I will be putting [preferred name] on my assignments and would appreciate it if you called me by this name and used the pronouns [your pronouns] to refer to me in class. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. You can contact me at [your email address]. Thank you so much for your understanding. I am looking forward to starting your class next week. Sincerely, [Your name] To Principal/School Staff Subject: Request for Affirmed Name/Pronoun Update Hi [Principal/Counselor’s Name], Hope you’re doing well! My [child/teen/self], [Legal Name], goes by [Affirmed Name] and uses [pronouns, if applicable] in daily life. We’d love for this to be reflected in school systems where possible! I’ve attached the completed [Form Name]—let me know if anything else is needed. Also, just checking: Has it been processed? How will this update be shared (or kept private)? Are there any other steps we should take? Thanks so much for your help in making [Student’s Name]’s school experience a little more affirming! Best, [Your Name][Your Contact Info] Pro Tip: CC a guidance counselor or trusted teacher if you’re not getting a response. A little persistence goes a long way! More Information & Resources For details on Florida's law: Florida Senate F.S. 1000.071 For district-specific LGBTQ+ support guides: Miami-Dade Guidelines for Promoting Safe and Inclusive Schools Broward County Inclusive Schools Guide Palm Beach LGBTQ+ Support Guide

< Back to School Policy Hub Bathroom Access: What Students Need to Know Bathroom access has become one of the most personal and politicized issues facing transgender and nonbinary students in Florida. At its core, this is not about politics—it is about safety, dignity, and whether students can get through the school day without fear or disruption. What Florida Law Requires In 2023, the Florida Legislature passed HB 1521, the Safety in Private Spaces Act . It applies to: K–12 public and many private schools Public colleges and universities Certain private colleges and universities (through a Department of Education rule for institutions licensed by the Commission for Independent Education or exempt under s. 1005.06(1)(b)–(f), F.S.) Under HB 1521 and related DOE rules : Restrooms and changing facilities must be designated for exclusive use by males or females, as defined by sex assigned at birth, or be a single-occupancy unisex facility that meets privacy standards (floor-to-ceiling walls, locking door). Students, staff, and others can be disciplined only if they willfully enter a facility for the “opposite sex” and refuse to leave when asked by authorized personnel. Exceptions exist for emergencies, maintenance, accompanying certain people (such as children under 12 or someone with a disability), or when a designated facility is out of order. For private postsecondary institutions, policies must be updated in student and employee handbooks, disciplinary procedures must be in place, and students and staff must be told they can file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General if the school fails to comply. The Role of Single-Stall and Unisex Bathrooms The law explicitly allows single-stall unisex restrooms and unisex changing facilities as alternatives. These are often the safest and most dignified harm-reduction option for transgender and nonbinary students. If your school or campus has one, you can request to use it—this is permitted under state law. What Federal Law Protects Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education, has been interpreted by courts and the U.S. Department of Education to include protections for transgender students. While Florida law is restrictive, Title IX still applies, and related cases are ongoing. This means you may still have legal recourse if you are denied access in a way that violates your federal rights. What Students and Families Can Do Request a meeting : Discuss accommodations such as access to a single-stall unisex restroom or other privacy measures. Document incidents : If you are denied access or told to leave, write down the date, time, and names of those involved. Seek support : Contact PRISM for guidance and resources. File a complaint : You may file with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights under Title IX or, in some cases, with the Florida Attorney General if your institution fails to meet state facility requirements. Why It Matters Bathroom access affects health, emotional wellbeing, and the ability to focus on learning. While current Florida law limits options, advocacy can still make a difference. Some schools and campuses continue to support students, and others may be open to change when students, families, and allies speak up. If you or your child is being denied access or made to feel unsafe, you are not alone. PRISM is here to help you understand your rights, navigate your options, and take action when necessary.

< Back to School Policy Hub Florida LGBTQ+ Organizations Launch #StayGay Campaign With the adoption of the infamous "Don't Say Gay" law on July 1st and other anti-LGBT bills sweeping across the country, PRISM FL, Inc. and several LGBTQ+ organizations throughout Florida have launched a new social media campaign and movement called "#SayGay" to place public pressure on companies to support LGBTQ+ organizations year-round. Rainbow capitalism or pink capitalism is a marketing tactic used by companies to embed LGBTQ+ topics into advertising and merchandise in order to make a profit, most commonly seen during Pride Month. Generally, LGBTQ+ marketing is seen as rainbow capitalism when companies also make contributions to anti-LGBT causes or political campaigns or when they do little to provide tangible support to the LGBTQ+ community. "Rainbow capitalism negatively impacts the entirety of the community worldwide," said CJ Walden, Vice-President of PRISM. "Corporations who gain profit from pride-related merchandise without giving back to the LGBTQ+ community only do us harm." #StayGay, which launches on June 20th, not only makes it known just how much companies contribute to anti-LGBT campaigns and the LGBT community, but it also shows companies how they can connect with LGBT nonprofits in the state. "With the Don’t Say Gay bill going into effect the day after pride month, it is so important that companies put their money where their mouth is," said Maxx Fenning, President of PRISM. "In June, they #SayGay. The other eleven months, they should #StayGay." Those interested in learning more are encouraged to visit www.staygay.org or contact PRISM FL, Inc. at staygay@prismfl.org .

< Back to School Policy Hub Black Cat Protests What are the Black Cat Protests? Battle in Courts Legacy What are the Black Cat Protests? On February 11, 1967, the first documented LGBTQ+ civil rights demonstration against police brutality in the nation took place at a small tavern named the Black Cat in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Hundreds of members of the LGBTQ+ community as well as known activist organizations such as PRIDE and SCCHR came together for a demonstration to peacefully protest the rampant police brutality and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. Protests outside the Black Cat bar, Feb. 11, 1967. (Image Source: ONE National Gay and Lesbian Archives at the USC Libraries) The demonstration was, more specifically, in response to a police raid that occurred the previous New Year's Eve. Eight undercover police officers barged into a gay bar just as many of the patrons were sharing their New Year's kiss and violently tore apart couples and beat men, ultimately resulting in a total of fourteen arrests. This historic and monumental demonstration of gay rights activists took place nearly two years prior to the well-known Stonewall Riots and is seen by many as the spark that ignited the LGBTQ civil rights movement. Battle in the Courts Black Cat Tavern in 1966 (Image Source: Unknown) The Black Cat constantly faced harassment from the police, who tried to do everything in their power to shut down and punish those who chose to gather there, which was, unsurprisingly, many gay males. The San Francisco Police Department worked closely with the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission to use its power against the bar despite the recent repeal of prior prohibition laws. With increased crowds of gay community members flocking to the bar at night, the police took this opportunity to charge the owner with a variety of crimes, including “keeping a disorderly conduct” and “illegal and immoral acts,” which resulted in the bar getting their liquor license voided, meaning the bar could no longer legally distribute alcohol to patrons. The court case appealing this ruling, Stouman vs. Riley (Stouman being the bar owner), made its way to the California Supreme Court. This court case marked one of the first official wins for LGBTQ+ rights in the court system. The judge ruled that the Black Cat’s liquor license was suspended under inadequate circumstances. The ruling confirmed that the fact that the bar served as a common gathering place for gay individuals was not a good enough cause to suspend their license. This ruling was one of the first rulings seen to protect LGBTQ+ rights. Fighting the System Following this ruling, California passed a constitutional amendment forming the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, which used its broad powers to again shut down the Black Cat bar as well as many other prominently gay establishments for being a “resort for sexual perverts.” A new case was once again brought to the California Supreme Court, which upheld its previous protections for gay bars and ruled the law used to get them to shut down as unconstitutional. Despite the ruling in favor of gay establishments, it was not a complete victory since even though gay individuals could gather legally, they could not touch physically in any way, or else it would be criminalized. Another battle in court involved 6 out of the 14 men who were arrested who were forced to register as sex offenders after kissing on New Year's Eve while the police raid occurred. The lawyer of these men used their sexual orientation to demand equal protection of rights under the 14th Amendment. This is the first time that sexual orientation was argued as a characteristic protected by the 14th Amendment. Legacy The Black Cat Protests preceded the well-known Stonewall riots by approximately two years. It is remembered today as one of the very first demonstrations from the LGBTQ community demanding equal rights and fair treatment in light of the ongoing police harassment. The Gay Pride parade on Hollywood Boulevard in 1975 (Image Source: The Bruce Torrence Hollywood Photograph Collection) References Branson-Potts, H. (2017, February 8). Before Stonewall, there was the Black Cat; LGBTQ leaders to mark 50th anniversary of protests at Silver Lake . Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles Times. https://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-silver-lake-black-cat-lgbtq-20170208-story.html Dominguez, Laura. (2017, February 11). LGBTQ Activism Started Here: L.A. and the Black Cat Protests of 1967 . KCET. https://www.kcet.org/shows/lost-la/the-black-cat-harbinger-of-lgbtq-civil-rights Wikipedia Contributors. (2021, December 1). Black Cat Tavern . Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Cat_Tavern

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

So, someone just came out to you as gay. We've provided some helpful resources to break it down! < Return to Resources So, someone just came out to you as Gay What does that mean, and how should you respond? We've provided some helpful resources below to break it down! So, someone just came out to you. You may be feeling a lot of things, and trust us, that's completely normal. We've put together a collection of some of our resources below to process and understand, as well as some extra ways to show your support! Sexual Orientation Basics Sexual orientation is a person's gender identity in relation to the gender to which they are attracted. PRISM Inc. How to Respond to Someone Coming Out Learn how to respectfully respond to someone coming out to you. Maxx Fenning Gay What does it mean to be gay? The word gay is a broad, inclusive term that encompasses people who experience same-gender attraction. PRISM Inc. The Basics History Homosexuality In Ancient China Learn about Homosexuality in Ancient China, how gender and class affected same-sex relationships and the history of the term "cut-sleeve." Sitao Lin The Fight for Marriage Equality For decades, the LGBTQ+ community fought for marriage equality. Here's the story of that struggle. Lex Costello Homosexuality in Medieval Europe Learn about the history and laws surrounding homosexuality in Medieval Europe. Jaymie Stopforth 1 2 3 4 5 Gay Pride Quick View PRISM Pride Backpack: Gay Price $48.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Notebook: Gay Price $16.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Magic Mug: Gay Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Face Mask: Gay Price $19.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Shirt: Gay Price $36.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sweatshirt: Gay Price $45.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Unisex Bomber Jacket: Gay Price $59.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Hoodie: Gay Price $59.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Leggings: Gay Price $37.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Plus Size Leggings: Gay Price $39.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Socks: Gay Price $16.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Fanny Pack: Gay Price $34.00 Quick View PRISM Pride Pillow Case: Gay Price $22.50 Quick View PRISM Pride Sticker: Gay Price $2.50

Join us as we pay homage to the people, organizations, and movements that lit the fire of queer activism and fought for the rights queer people have today. BUY YOUR TICKET A HISTORY OF RESISTANCE As queer youth face mounting attacks across the state, our movement calls for a return to scrappy, grassroots tactics. This year, we're harkening back to the era of Riot Grrrl and feminist punk to celebrate queers who took to the streets to demand change. Join us as we pay homage to the people, organizations, and movements that fought for the rights we have today. Drinks, Drag, Dinner, Awards & Auction There will be: Entertainment Dinner Interactive Exhibits Silent Auction Awards Ceremony An exclusive after party And more! SPONSORS Interested in sponsoring the PRISM Gala? Reach out to Maxx Fenning for more information (maxxfenning@prismfl.org ) Champion Tier Advocate Tier Ally Tier Media Sponsors 2025 AWARDEES Ky Walker Youth Leadership Award Laura Munoz Youth Allyship Award Sofia Hernandez Volunteer Award BUY YOUR TICKET

PRISM aims to provide LGBTQ+ youth in South Florida and beyond with the education and support they need. It is our goal to make sure everyone feels included in their community, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Voting Hub We're here to help you get ready for the polls. Use the links below to navigate through our various tools, with which you can do things like register to vote, request your mail-in ballot, check your status, and more. Register to Vote in Florida Request Mail-In Ballot Check My Voter Status What's on My Ballot? Trans & Non-Binary Voting Guide 2024 in Partnership with Equality Florida

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