Yes, menstrual equity! It’s a BFD!
I never figured it out until I got an email from Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06) regarding this issue — I’d been exposed to tons of info about the problems of women in other parts of the world in regard to their isolation during their periods and the sanitation problems presented by the lack of cheap menstrual products, but not enough to put it together in a nice easy phrase:
Menstrual Equity
I have always had easy access to these products and never, never thought about it as a political issue.
The taboo around periods has a real cost for women and girls, and I don’t just mean financially. That’s why I introduced the Menstrual Equity for All Act.
I wanted to do something for low-income women who can only get pads and tampons from food pantries. For female inmates, some of whom are forced to share just five pads per week with a bunkmate. For homeless women who may have no access at all to menstrual products. For every girl and every woman who deserves basic dignity.
We can’t let stigma and taboo keep us from fighting for fairness. Will you join me?
Good heavens! The bill is H.R. 972, Menstrual Equity For All Act of 2017:
www.marieclaire.com/…
I can just imagine the chagrin of male Republicon legislators as they have to contemplate this issue. I can just imagine the chagrin of Trump when it is presented to him for signature.
Will he leap to the top of his desk, lift his trouser hems and start screaming?
Although, I cannot imagine the rather portly Trump leaping to anywhere. Nevertheless, the thought is quite pleasing.
Thank you, Representative Meng, for educating and enlightening me!