Why in the world do we celebrate Period Action Day (formerly called National Period Day)? After all, talking about periods is impolite, right? Actually, no. The lack of conversations about periods is having many negative impacts on people who menstruate in the United States and around the globe.
Did you know? In the U.S…
- 35 states still have a sales tax on period products considering them non-essential items.
- 1 in 4 women struggle to afford period products due to a lack of income.
- 46% of low-income women had to choose between a meal and period products.[1]
- Nearly 1 in 5 girls have missed school due to lack of period protection.[2]
It’s time to end #TamponTax, #PeriodShame, #PeriodStigma, and #PeriodPoverty!
Creative Solutions
Caroline Dillon, a teen from New Hampshire, drafted a period poverty bill that has been signed into law. This bill ensures free access to tampons and pads in all-girls and gender-neutral bathrooms in New Hampshire public schools. This is part of a nation-wide push to ensure access to menstrual products for all people incarcerated, in public schools, or in shelters. Read more about the bill and the work yet to be done.
When a UNICEF survey of Indonesian girls revealed that 1 in 6 skipped school while on their period, they looked for causes and solutions. Lack of toilets and teasing from boys were two reasons girls missed school. So, they developed a two-in-one comic book to educate students about menstruation and promote respect and support. Hold it one way and it is a guide for boys; Hold it the other way and it is a guide for girls. The students helped to develop the comic book! Read more about the positive outcomes.
6 Ways to Celebrate Period Action Day
- Join a rally.
- Join the Menstrual Movement by joining or starting a chapter.
- Learn more about Period Poverty.
- Get ready to celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28.
- Read my blog about menstruation and Menstrual Hygiene Day.
- Read about menstrual challenges in India, in the UK, and globally.
