MENSTRUAL EQUITY: FEMINIST ACTIVISM AND THE QUEST FOR GENDER JUSTICE

Abstract

In the modern era of menstrual awareness, menstrual equity is still being thwarted globally because of period poverty, lack of menstrual health awareness, and social stigma around it. This paper analyzes the importance of menstrual equity as a battlefield for feminist activists through the lens of global trends and movements, examining how activists have thrived to achieve a society which promotes menstrual equity outside of the tapestry of shame, illiteracy, and poverty. Different aspects trough which such a supportive and forward society can be built such as elimination of tax on menstrual products like sanitary napkin and tampons, availability of free menstrual products in educational institutions and for those who cannot afford the same, raising awareness to abate taboos and social stigma around menstrual hygiene, and formulating menstrual leave policies in workplaces are advanced. Using data by reviewing such movements from time to time by various menstrual equity organizations and examination of demands and recommendations in view of the recent judicial decisions on the same, this paper aims to analyze the strategies, challenges, and landmark occurrences through various movements till now. It further lays down the framework to achieve menstrual equity advanced by the feminist activists to promote fairness and equal participation of women in overall development of the nation, deprecating the patriarchal society and ignorance towards menstrual health awareness and sanitation.