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< Back to School Policy Hub DoxyPEP What is DoxyPEP? How Does DoxyPEP Work? Who Can Benefit From DoxyPEP? Considerations and Risks Get Tested Today DoxyPEP is a little pill you can take to prevent exposure to STIs . If you're looking for information on PEP and/or PrEP, which prevent exposure to HIV, check out our other article . What is DoxyPEP? Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) is an emerging strategy to prevent certain bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It involves taking the antibiotic doxycycline after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of acquiring STIs like syphilis and chlamydia. How Does DoxyPEP Work? DoxyPEP entails taking a 200 mg dose of doxycycline as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours — but no later than 72 hours — after unprotected sex. Doing so aims to prevent the establishment of bacterial infections following exposure. Who Benefits From DoxyPEP? Research has shown that DoxyPEP is most effective in reducing the risk of syphilis and chlamydia among gay and bisexual men and transgender women. Considerations and Risks While DoxyPEP shows promise, it’s essential to consider potential risks: Antibiotic Resistance: Overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance, making infections harder to treat. Side Effects: Doxycycline can cause side effects like nausea, sensitivity to sunlight, and digestive issues. Consult Your Healthcare Provider Before starting DoxyPEP, discuss it with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s suitable for you. They can provide guidance based on your health history and potential risks. Stayed Informed As research evolves, guidelines may change. Stay updated on the latest recommendations from trusted health sources. DoxyPEP represents a proactive approach to STI prevention, offering an additional layer of protection for those at higher risk. However, it is crucial to use this strategy responsibly and in consultation with healthcare providers. Get Tested Today HIV testing is fast and easy. The Affordable Care Act ensures HIV screening is covered by health insurance without a copay, and some sites offer free testing without insurance. Check out the STI Clinic Search to find out where you can be tested in South Florida. References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Doxy PEP for Bacterial STI Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/sti/hcp/doxy-pep/index.html NAM aidsmap. (2024). DoxyPEP: Using antibiotics to prevent STIs. Retrieved from https://www.aidsmap.com/about-hiv/doxypep-using-antibiotics-prevent-stis

It's National Trivia Day, and PRISM is here to test your knowledge on gender and sexuality, LGBT history, and sexual health! It's National Trivia Day! < Return to Resources Take the quiz below to test your knowledge.

< Back to School Policy Hub The Fight for Marriage Equality Before Marriage Equality Major Court Cases Taking it to the Supreme Court Legacy In the United States, the LGBTQ+ community has fought long and hard for equal rights. While the Stonewall Uprising is known as the spark for LGBTQ+ civil rights, legalizing marriage equality in the United States gave couples the rights they deserved. Activists long took to the streets to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and now it was time to take it to court. Before Marriage Equality Marriage is a civil right towards the freedom of happiness. For years, same-sex couples were denied this right and the benefits of marriage, which gave couples legal rights such as tax benefits, immigration rights, social security income, and employer benefits. Same-sex couples were also unable to receive other vital resources given to married couples, like health insurance benefits, welfare, domestic violence protections, and housing. In some states, domestic partnerships were an option for same-sex couples who lived together and wanted to recognize their relationships legally. These domestic partnerships allowed couples to seek some benefits (for instance, federal taxes), but not many. Domestic partnership’s rights, recognition, and benefits still vary significantly between states, agencies, and other individual companies. Marriage equality was essential for same-sex couples to ensure their rights and protections across the nation. Major Court Cases Baehr v. Miike was the first major same-sex marriage court case. Three same-sex couples filed a lawsuit against Hawaii in 1990, arguing that prohibiting same-sex marriage was a violation of Hawaii’s state constitution. The lawsuit sparked the conversation regarding legitimate interest in same-sex marriage from the LGBT community. The case was initially dismissed but then had a trial with the Hawaii Supreme Court. Before this trial, President Clinton signed the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 1996. It defined federal marriage only for heterosexual couples, but states had the freedom to define it differently. In 1996, Hawaii gave benefits to couples who were ineligible to get married. Two years later, an amendment to “grant the legislature the power to restrict marriage to opposite-sex couples” was placed on the ballot and passed. Massachusetts became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004, following the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court case Goodridge v. Department of Public Health . Taking it to the Supreme Court In 2009, Edith Windsor received a federal tax bill after the death of her wife, Thea Clara Spyer, because Windsor was not recognized as a surviving spouse. After being denied federal tax benefits, Windsor challenged the Supreme Court on recognizing same-sex couples married in legal states. In 2013, United States v. Windsor challenged section three of DOMA, which recognized marriage as a union between a man and a woman. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled section three of DOMA was “…unconstitutional and that the federal government cannot discriminate against married lesbian and gay couples to determine federal benefits and protection.” Jim Obergfell after the ruling. (Image Source: Elvert Barnes /Wikimedia Commons, CC BY SA ) Obergefell v. Hodges: An Iconic Case Jim Obergefell and John Arthur quickly heard the news of Windor’s success. Obergefell and Arthur decided to get married before Arthur passed away due to his health struggle. The couple lived in Ohio and traveled to Maryland for their wedding. After returning home, they went to an Ohio judge who ruled for Obergefell to be listed as the surviving spouse upon Arthur’s death. John Arthur passed away three months after their marriage. With the Judge’s ruling, Obergefell was listed on the death certificate. However, the state of Ohio appealed the Judge’s decision and reissued the certificate to exclude his name. Obergefell filed an appeal to the Supreme Court in 2014. On June 26th, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 on Obergefell v. Hodges in favor of federal same-sex marriage. Legacy The decision on Obergefell v. Hodges gave civil rights to millions of LGBTQ+ Americans. The White House was lit in rainbow lights, and the nation celebrated after years of protesting, boycotting, Queer politicism, and hardships. Legalizing marriage equality would not have been possible without Edith Windsor and Jim Obergefell’s perseverance and the hard work of the activists who came before us. References Andersen, E. A. (2017). Transformative Events in the LGBTQ Rights Movement. Indiana Journal of Law and Social Equality , 5 (2), 36. https://www.repository.law.indiana.edu/ijlse/vol5/iss2/10 ACLU. (n.d.). Windsor v. United States . American Civil Liberties Union. Retrieved March 26, 2021, from https://www.aclu.org/cases/lesbian-and-gay-rights/windsor-v-united-states Defense of Marriage Act: Update to Prior Report . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-04-353r.pdf Domestic Partner Benefit Eligibility: Defining Domestic Partners and Dependents—HRC Foundation . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.thehrcfoundation.org/professional-resources/domestic-partner-benefit-eligibility-defining-domestic-partners-and-dependents Domestic Partnership Benefits . (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.glad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/domestic-partnership-overview.pdf Domestic Partnership vs. Marriage: What’s the Difference? (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2021, from https://www.rocketlawyer.com/family-and-personal/family-matters/marriage/legal-guide/domestic-partnership-vs-marriage-whats-the-difference Liptak, A. (2013, June 26). Supreme Court Bolsters Gay Marriage With Two Major Rulings. The New York Times . https://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/27/us/politics/supreme-court-gay-marriage.html Rosenwald, M. S. (2015, April 6). How Jim Obergefell became the face of the Supreme Court gay marriage case. Washington Post . https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/how-jim-obergefell-became-the-face-of-the-supreme-court-gay-marriage-case/2015/04/06/3740433c-d958-11e4-b3f2-607bd612aeac_story.html

< Back Maxx Fenning Executive Director Maxx recently earned his degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida. A staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and sexual health education, Maxx is the Executive Director of PRISM. He is also an active creator on TikTok, where he educates on many of the same topics that PRISM addresses. In his free time, Maxx enjoys singing and graphic design. < Back to Our Team

< Back to School Policy Hub Herpes What is Herpes? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive What is Herpes? Herpes is a virus that causes contagious sores, most often around the mouth or on the genitals. It is very common. When we say common, we mean REALLY common. There are about 572,000 cases of genital herpes every year in America. Genital herpes is so common in the US that more than 1 out 6 people are diagnosed with it between the ages of 14-49. Herpes does not have a cure. While herpes isn’t curable, your healthcare provider can give you medication to help shorten or even prevent outbreaks. One of these medications can even help you decrease the chances of spreading it to your partner. How It's Spread Genital Herpes Genital herpes can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Unlike many common STIs, herpes can also be spread through the mouth and saliva. Luckily, herpes cannot survive on other surfaces, so you cannot contract herpes from touching an object that an infected individual has come in contact with. Oral Herpes Oral herpes is generally contracted during childhood or early adulthood from non-sexual contact with infected saliva. In rare cases, you can be born with herpes if your mother is infected. Symptoms Part of the reason herpes is so common is that there usually are no symptoms. Genital Herpes Those with genital herpes often experience very mild symptoms, if any at all. Sometimes you may not even notice these symptoms or mistake them for a skin condition. Since this happens frequently, a majority of people who have herpes don’t know. However, if you do have symptoms, these will include herpes sores around, or on, the mouth, rectum, or genitals. They can show up as a singular blister or multiple. When they break, they are extremely painful and leave sores. These can take up to a week or longer to heal. When experiencing your first outbreak, you can also have flu-like symptoms. For example, you may experience a fever, body aches, or swollen glands. People who experience an initial outbreak can probably expect to have more than one, especially when infected with HSV-2 (genital herpes). The repeat outbreaks are usually a lot shorter and less severe than the first one and sometimes might not show up as often, either. Oral Herpes Oral herpes also tends to have very mild symptoms and is often mistaken for something else (chapped lips, bug bites, or just a small crack in the skin) or not even noticed at all. The symptoms include sores in and on the mouth, the back of the throat, and the lymph nodes in the neck. Many people will experience prodromes, which are essentially warning symptoms prior to an outbreak. A prodrome is an itching, tingling, or painful sensation in the area the sores will appear. These prodromes appear a day or two before an outbreak. You should avoid close contact during this time and during the outbreak to prevent it from spreading. When and if you accidentally touch the fluid or sores, wash your hands immediately and thoroughly. If you touch your sores or the fluids from the sores, you can transfer herpes to other parts of your body. You can even spread it to your eyes. Getting Tested Testing for herpes is a little different from other viral STIs. Sometimes your healthcare provider will simply examine your symptoms and diagnose you with herpes. They also can take samples from the sore(s) and test them. However, in certain cases, you’ll undergo a blood test to look for herpes antibodies. A herpes blood test cannot tell you who you were infected by or how long ago you were infected. 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. Click here to find a local testing center. Testing 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 herpes, it does not necessarily mean anyone cheated. Test results may not detect the infection until well after contracting it, and herpes can be spread through non-sexual contact. How do I get rid of it? Unfortunately, herpes cannot be cured. However, you can be given anti-herpes medication to help suppress outbreaks. Some of these anti-herpes medications can even keep you from spreading to your sexual partner(s). If you are in a relationship with someone who has herpes, you can prevent yourself from getting it by making sure that they are taking their anti-herpes medication every day. You also need to avoid having any sexual contact with them while they are enduring an outbreak. For real, getting frisky can wait. Willingly risking your or your partner's sexual health isn't sexy. Peace of mind is sexy. References John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Herpes: HSV-1 and HSV-2 . Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/herpes-hsv1-and-hsv2 American Sexual Health Association. (n.d.). Oral Herpes . American Sexual Health Association. https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/oral-herpes/ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, August 28). STD Facts - Genital Herpes . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes.htm

< Return to STI Clinic Search Pride Center at Equality Park Call: (954) 463-9005 ext 207 Website: https://pridecenterflorida.org/hiv-sti-testing-prevention/ Have you been tested here? Fill out our STI Clinic Vetting Survey to tell us about your experience! 2040 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, USA Hours: Today (Wed): 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Thurs: 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Fri: 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Sat: 12:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sun: Closed Mon: 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Tues: 11:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. CLOSED NOW Free Testing Walk-Ins Accepted Free Condoms PrEP On-Site PrEP Referral Parking type: Lot Free Parking Tests Offered: HIV (Rapid): Free HIV (Lab): Free

< 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 Gonorrhea What is Gonorrhea? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive What is Gonorrhea? Gonorrhea, sometimes called "the clap" or "the drip," is an easily curable bacterial infection. It is one of the most common STIs. When we say common, we mean REALLY common. About 1.6 MILLION people contract gonorrhea every year in America (mostly between 15 and 24 years old), making it one of the most commonly reported STIs in the US. Gonorrhea is easily treatable. Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics. The sooner you find out you have it, the easier it is to cure. How It's Spread Gonorrhea can be spread even if no one ejaculates. Gonorrhea is carried in semen, pre-cum, and vaginal fluids. It can infect the penis, vagina, cervix, anus, urethra, and throat. Generally, this happens through vaginal sex or anal sex. In rare cases, gonorrhea can be spread through oral sex, too. Symptoms Part of the reason gonorrhea is so common is that there usually are no symptoms . However, some signs can show up: unusual vaginal discharge yellow, white, or green discharge from the penis bleeding outside of periods pain or burning while peeing swollen or tender testicles Symptoms are more likely to show up in people with penises, and they usually are present within a week. Getting Tested Testing for gonorrhea 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, gonorrhea 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 center. Testing 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 gonorrhea, 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, gonorrhea is easily treatable with antibiotics. There are different forms of antibiotics that are used to treat gonorrhea, so make sure to follow the instructions from your doctor. Sometimes it’s just a pill. However, some strains of gonorrhea are resistant to antibiotics, so you may receive a shot in addition to oral antibiotics. 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 gonorrhea. 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, July 22). Detailed STD Facts - Gonorrhea . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/stdfact-gonorrhea-detailed.htm . 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#Gonorrhea

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

< 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 HPV What is HPV? How It's Spread Symptoms Getting Tested Testing Positive Prevention What is HPV? HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a common infection that causes warts on various parts of the body, depending on the strain. It is a different virus from HSV ( herpes ) and HIV . When we say common, we mean REALLY common. About 14 million Americans are diagnosed with HPV each year, while 79 million Americans already have HPV. Most new HPV cases are in their late teens and early 20s. It is so common that virtually everyone who doesn’t get the HPV vaccination will contract some form of HPV at some point in their life if they are sexually active. HPV does not have a cure. Unfortunately, HPV does not have a cure, but it normally goes away on its own. There are treatments to help with the health problems HPV brings with it. How It's Spread HPV is spread through oral, vaginal, and anal sex with someone who has the virus. However, it's most commonly spread through anal and vaginal sex. It can still be spread even if the carrier has no signs or symptoms of HPV. It can take years for symptoms to show up after you’ve had intercourse with a carrier, which can make it hard for people to know who they’ve contracted it from. Anyone who is sexually active can contract HPV, even if they’ve only been with one person. Symptoms High-risk HPV High-risk HPV does not have symptoms, and by the time most people know, they'll likely have already gotten some sort of serious health condition or cancer. High-risk HPV can cause normal cells to be abnormal and cause various cancers. It mostly attacks normal cells in the cervix, vagina, penis, vulva, anus, mouth, and throat. Luckily, it usually takes years for cancer to form, and possible cervical cancer can be picked up in tests before it becomes untreatable. Low-risk HPV Low-risk HPV causes genital warts. Unfortunately, you cannot treat them yourself, and they can be tricky to spot. They can often be mistaken for any bumpy skin issue. They are also known to sometimes cause discomfort and irritation where they form, which can be on or in the genitalia, mouth, and anus. Fortunately, they aren’t dangerous and can’t cause cancer, and they can be treated and removed like regular warts you might get on your feet and hands. Getting Tested There is no universal test to find out if you have HPV. Because HPV normally goes away on its own, most people with HPV don’t know and don’t experience health problems or symptoms. However, some people may discover they have HPV by contracting genital warts or developing certain cancers. There is a test for high-risk HPV in the cervix, but not for other genital areas or the throat. While there are HPV test screenings for cervical cancer, they are only for women aged 25 years or older. They are not recommended for men, adolescents, or women under 25. Women may also find out they have HPV when they receive an abnormal pap smear, which can detect abnormal cell changes on your cervix. Thinking about getting tested? Find a free or low-cost testing place near you. Testing Positive The first thing to remember is that this is nothing to be ashamed of. Like we said earlier, this is a very common infection. If you or your partner have HPV, it does not necessarily mean anyone cheated. Many people go years before finding out they have HPV. How do I get rid of it? Unfortunately, you cannot be treated for the virus itself, but there are treatments for the health problems that it can cause. Genital warts can be treated by your healthcare provider or with prescription medicine. If they are left untreated, they can go away with time but can also persist or even grow in size or number. Cervical pre-cancer can also be treated. Women who get regular Pap tests and follow up as needed can identify problems before they can develop cancer. Other HPV-related cancers, like oral cancer, are also more treatable when diagnosed and treated early before it has the chance to get worse. Prevention Get vaccinated. You can prevent HPV by getting the HPV vaccine. It is safe and effective, and it can also protect against diseases, such as some cancers, that are caused by HPV. It is recommended to get this vaccine at ages 11 or 12, but all people ages 9 to 45 can get it if they haven't been vaccinated already. Wear protection. If you are sexually active, use condoms every time you have sex. It can lower your chances of getting HPV, but not entirely. You can still contract HPV from areas that are not covered by a condom. References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, January 19). STD Facts - Human Papillomavirus (HPV) . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm What are the symptoms & signs of HPV? Planned Parenthood. (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/hpv/what-are-symptoms-hpv

< Back to School Policy Hub Homosexuality in Ancient Europe "Homosexuality" as a Modern Term Ancient Greece Ancient Rome Introduction of Christianity Incomplete Picture of Ancient Sources “Homosexuality” as a Modern Term Map of Europe and Byzantine around 1000ACE (Image source: University of Texas Libraries: Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection) Both “homosexual” and “homosexuality” are modern terms that were created in the late nineteenth century concerning the study of abnormal psychology. The way we categorize sexualities and make distinctions now is different from ancient times. Some scholars would argue that since people in ancient Europe classified sexual behaviors or identities not by the gender of the participants but by the sexual role each played, the term “ homosexual ” doesn’t fit. However, it is the term that will be used here for simplicity and clarity. Just understand that what we usually associate with the term in modern-day doesn’t necessarily apply to ancient Europe. Homosexuality in Ancient Greece Homosexuality has existed throughout history, although differently than in the modern day. One of the most well-known examples of ancient homosexuality is in Ancient Greece. The most common and well-recorded form of homosexuality was the relationship between two upper-class males: one youth and one adult. This became an institutionalized practice in many regions of Ancient Greece called pederasty. When a boy reached the age of twelve or so, he became the erotic companion of a young man. For Spartans, this focused on the military training of the boys. For Athenians, the purpose was more for intellectual, character, and athletic training. There were also sexual aspects involved in this relationship. When the boys reached adulthood and became citizens, this relationship ended, and they took a boy of their own. When they finished training at around age thirty, the man would then marry a young woman, usually eighteen. At the time, marriage was less a romantic practice and more an institutional one. Greek Painting of a Gay Couple, 480BC (Image Source: Museum of Paestum) According to the practice, homosexual relations were supposed to end after marriage. However, this wasn’t always followed, and men often continued visiting male prostitutes and brothels or even taking a new “eromenos'' to train. Eromenos is the ancient Greek word for the young boy in this partnership. Homosexual relationships between two male citizen adults were discouraged and less recorded. This is because of social status and Greek ideals of beauty. The “passive” role in a relationship was only socially acceptable for the non-citizen: youth, slaves, and females. A similar pederasty system might have also existed for women, with the writing of Sapphos being the main source of recorded information of this. However, since mainstream society and culture placed men as most important, most of the surviving texts and arts are male-centric. Therefore, not much is known about ancient female homosexuality. Homosexuality in Ancient Rome Art of Ancient Roman martyr-saints and soldiers Maurice and Theofredus and their homosocial relationship. (Image Source: J. Paul Getty Museum) Homosexuality was different for Romans as there was no institutional practice. Like Sparta, Rome was highly militarized. At first, the concern of homosexual relations was only about status and power. Like the Greeks, homosexual relationships were only acceptable between men of different social statuses, so free men could only be with slaves, former slaves, prostitutes, or young men. However, the most common relationship was with slaves rather than with young boys. This “relationship” was often more about conquering and gaining power over a person than it was about mentorship and was often non-consensual. Introduction of Christianity to Ancient Rome The Christian takeover of the Roman Empire in the early 4th century criminalized and demonized all homosexuality. This began when the emperor Constantine used Christianity as his basis for ruling. The first enactment of the death penalty for sodomy was in 342 AD. After his death, the next emperor, Valentinian, divided Rome into East and West. In 476 AD, the West was overthrown and signaled the fall of Rome. However, Eastern Rome, or Byzantine, went on to survive for centuries after. In 533 AD, homosexuality became outlawed in Eastern Rome by the Justinian Code. The emperor, Justinian, then castrated those found guilty of homosexuality. The law was to punish those guilty by death, but that was rarely carried out. The Incomplete Picture of Ancient Sources What we know about ancient homosexuality in Europe is largely based on texts written by older, upper-class male perspectives. Therefore, we largely lack the voice of women, younger men, slaves, etc. It’s also important to remember that an ancient period text does not represent the entire period’s feelings of a given subject, but the feelings of one particular writer, shaped by things like their upbringing. We can see this in our modern-day too. So, overall what we do know about ancient European homosexuality is very broad and missing certain perspectives. People of all different sexualities and genders exist throughout all of history and in all places. References Dynes, W. R., & Donaldson, S. (1992). Homosexuality in the Ancient World . Garland. Karras, R. M. (2012). Sexuality in Medieval Europe: doing unto others . Routledge. Zive, G. A Brief History of Western Homosexuality. California State University, Stanislaus.