Photo by MetaAI
As World Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28th approaches, memories of my upbringing in Lagos, Nigeria resurface. I recall the inequalities and stigma that shrouded menstruation, turning a natural process into a silent burden for many girls and women. This journey from Lagos to advocating for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld globally has fuelled my passion for change.
Over the years, efforts to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene have gained momentum. From International Menstrual Hygiene Day in 2014 to various awareness campaigns and celebrities openly discussing menstruation, there has been progress in destigmatizing this topic. As we approach this year’s World Menstrual Hygiene Day, it is crucial to reflect on the champions driving menstrual equity and the various aspects that contribute to positive change.
One significant aspect is the role of women leaders who are spearheading the menstrual equity movement. These individuals are breaking barriers and inspiring action in their respective fields:
– Wendy Laryea – an award-winning journalist amplifying marginalized voices.
– Femi One – a best-selling female rapper empowering young women through her influence.
– Imoh Eboh – an actress contributing to normalizing menstruation dialogue.
– Modupe Oyekunle – Founder/CRO innovating sustainable solutions for economic empowerment.
– Ina Jurga – President leading global advocacy efforts for menstrual health.
– Sanna Thoresson – Partnership Manager ensuring WASH standards vital for menstrual health worldwide.
– Celeste Mergens – Founder empowering millions through sustainable menstrual products.
– Katja Iversen – CEO championing global conversations on critical issues affecting women.
– Madame Gandhi – an artist advocating fiercely for menstrual liberation and gender equality.
– Candice Chirwa – known as the
“Minister of Menstruation,”
challenging stigma and advocating for policy change.
These women exemplify courage, commitment, and tangible impact, paving the way towards a more equitable future for all. However, support from men is also crucial in normalizing conversations around menstruation both at home and in workplaces.
Men can play a pivotal role as allies by fostering understanding, empathy, and actively supporting initiatives that promote menstrual health. Establishing period-positive workplaces where free period products are provided, wash facilities meet hygiene standards, and employees are informed about available resources can significantly impact productivity and inclusivity within organizations.
The Period Positive Workplace (PPW) initiative launched on May 28th serves as a beacon of progress towards menstrual equity in workplaces globally. By meeting specific requirements such as providing free period products and promoting supportive work cultures, organizations can enhance employee well-being while driving societal change.
Governments also have a critical role to play in upholding menstrual dignity through robust policies supporting access to products, education, and conducive environments. National Menstrual Health Policies must be established to ensure holistic support across sectors like education, labor, public health while integrating menstrual equity into core frameworks seamlessly.
Embracing technology innovations that support menstruators every day further reinforces the notion that menstruation is a natural bodily function deserving respect rather than shame or secrecy. By championing these principles collectively – be it through advocacy efforts or workplace initiatives – we pave the way towards a world where periods are viewed with dignity and respect.
In conclusion,
the journey towards redefining menstrual health equity requires collaborative efforts from diverse stakeholders – from influential leaders championing change to supportive allies fostering inclusive environments at home and workspaces; from governments enacting policies safeguarding dignity to embracing technological advancements that enhance everyday experiences surrounding menstruation.
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