On Tuesday 9 November, students from the Feminist Collective Club introduced 'Period Poverty Day' to OLMC. On the day, students and staff painted their nails red to raise awareness about period poverty around the world. In morning Pastorals, students were encouraged to engage in discussions about Menstruation and learn about the impact that this has for people in different cultures and living conditions.
Over the past few weeks, students and staff donated much needed period products. These products will be delivered this week to McAuley Community Services who will distribute these to women who have fled domestic violence and poverty and are in much need of basic sanitary items.
Period poverty includes a lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual hygiene education and toilets. More than 800 million people menstruate daily. In some countries, the cultural shame attached to menstruation, and a shortage of resources, stop people from going to school and work every day. Promoting menstrual equity is key to supporting those who menstruate.