Activists Unite for Period Action Day: A Global Movement
This upcoming Saturday, activists from around the globe will come together to observe Period Action Day, an important initiative aimed at raising awareness about period poverty and stigma. The event is presented by the Aerie Real Foundation and is marked on the second Saturday of October each year. This day was founded by the advocacy group PERIOD. in 2019 to highlight the challenges many face regarding menstrual health.
Global Events and Initiatives
This year, activists representing various PERIOD. chapters and nonprofit partners are set to host over 60 events worldwide. These events will include menstrual product drives, rallies, and educational initiatives focused on advocating for accessible menstrual products for students in schools. Additionally, they will campaign to abolish the sales tax on period products, which is still present in 20 states across the United States.
The Urgency of Advocacy for Menstrual Health
Statistics reveal a pressing issue—1 in 4 students in the U.S. struggles to afford menstrual products, a reality that affects even more adults. Nearly 1 in 3 people find it challenging to access these essential items. Despite menstrual products being recognized as medical necessities, their accessibility and affordability continue to be undermined. Comprehensive menstrual health education is often left out, even though menstruation is a shared biological process among over half of the population.
Voices of Change: Youth Activists Speak Out
Activists are calling on policymakers to heed the voices of younger generations advocating for change. They urge governments to lower the costs of period products and ensure their availability in public schools. As the next election approaches, the moment for change is now more critical than ever, with 20 states still imposing a tax on menstrual products. The movement aims to eliminate this disparity before the next presidential election.
Aerie Real Foundation's Commitment
Jennifer Foyle, President and Executive Creative Director of American Eagle & Aerie, emphasized the foundational mission to support initiatives that empower young women. The Aerie Real Foundation, established two years ago, is dedicated to fostering community and confidence among young women. Through significant initiatives like Period Action Day, they aim to facilitate systemic changes that improve access to menstrual products while equipping young women with the knowledge needed to champion menstrual health education in their communities.
Community Involvement and Actions
On Period Action Day, individuals and organizations are encouraged to actively contribute by donating menstrual products or signing petitions to repeal the often criticized 'tampon tax'. They are also urged to reach out to state representatives to advocate for further support of menstrual product accessibility in schools, shelters, and correctional institutions. Resources for taking action and greater involvement can be found on numerous dedicated platforms.
About PERIOD.
PERIOD. is a well-established global advocacy organization dedicated to eradicating period poverty and associated stigma through not just advocacy but also education and community service. Since its inception in 2014, PERIOD. has built a network of hundreds of chapters worldwide, primarily spearheaded by driven students tackling this vital issue within their communities. Their initiatives focus on promoting legislation that fosters affordability and accessibility of period products, alongside creating educational resources that reach millions annually.
About the Aerie Real Foundation
The Aerie Real Foundation is committed to nurturing confidence in young women while fostering a more inclusive community. Through philanthropic donations, community grants, and educational resources, the foundation works diligently to inspire positive change for current and future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Period Action Day?
Period Action Day is an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about period poverty and advocating for policy changes supporting menstrual health.
When does Period Action Day occur?
Period Action Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of October each year.
Who organizes Period Action Day?
The event is organized by PERIOD., a global advocacy organization focused on ending period poverty and stigma.
How can individuals support Period Action Day?
Individuals can support by donating menstrual products, signing petitions for policy changes, and encouraging their representatives to advocate for menstrual health.
What initiatives is the Aerie Real Foundation involved in?
The Aerie Real Foundation engages in initiatives that promote women's confidence, education, and accessibility to essential resources like menstrual products.
