1) Addressing and de-constructing shame and stigma around menstruation and period poverty

Stigma and shame are common themes in the period poverty discourse. A lack of education on menstrual health and the stigma around women’s health and menstruating bodies has been a constant barrier to full menstrual equity. To properly advocate for menstrual equity, the social and medical stigma and feelings of shame need to be addressed and de-constructed. 

The steps to achieving a more open conversation is to have public conversations and promote the education of menstrual health to the wider population. Part of it includes giving a platform to educators and health workers who are able to educate and answer questions around the topic of menstruation and bodies. Our events and workshops are there to build foundational knowledge and grow the movement and network of those interested in the fight for menstrual equity and health rights.

We also aim to strengthen the community of menstruators by inviting them to casual monthly games, discussions and coffee circles. Community is important in the process of becoming comfortable around the topics of periods, shame and stigma.

2) Influencing the political agenda by advocating for policy changes

The next step is to talk to members of our local municipality councils. They can support us in our goal to formalise the obligation to provide period products in schools and public institutes. We have seen an increase of petitions being introduced in municipalities. A few have been passed in relation to improving access to menstrual products, while others have yet to be successfully passed.  

We plan to advise and consult on period poverty policies for those politicians and advocates in their respective municipalities, by utilising various data we have collected, as well as data we have been presented with by their counterparts and peers. 

We also strive to build on existing partnerships and grow our network of activists, researchers, and organisations. By hosting events, workshops and discussions, we aim to strengthen the community of menstruators. 

By connecting individuals and organisations who work on the issue of period poverty, we hope to strengthen the community of advocates and share our insights and knowledge of current affairs regarding period poverty. The goal is to have the national government work on improve and increase access to menstrual products, improve the education around menstrual health, and to alleviate the population from poverty, so that no one will struggle with their ability to practise their menstrual health with dignity, proper sanitation and care.