Women are not the only ones who need sanitary products or suffer from period poverty.
While Republicans are pushing legislation targeting transgender people, there are several policies they have refused to pass that could benefit all Americans, regardless of gender. States that passed bans on trans toilets and sports The same goes for states that refuse to take measures. This would make menstrual products free and available to everyone.
Here’s everything you need to know about period poverty and why free menstrual products are beneficial for women, men, and non-binary people alike.
What is period poverty?
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, sanitary products, and sanitary products due to cost or lack of resources. According to research, one in four students who menstruate in the U.S. struggle to obtain essential items. Sanitary Products AllianceAnd more than one in three menstruating adults (37%) say they or a family member has struggled to buy menstrual products.
Why are vintage items so expensive?
In the United States, vintage products are taxed differently than other medical and hygiene products. Viagra, an erectile dysfunction drug, is classified as a tax-exempt health product in many states, but menstrual products are classified as luxury goods and are therefore taxed at the highest rate, which has been condemned by the federal government. There is. united nations.
It also involves the “pink tax,” where companies charge more for products sold to women than the same products sold to men. world economic forum. one united states government research found that out of 800 gender-specific products from approximately 100 brands, personal care products marketed to women were 13% more expensive than similar products for men. Adult clothing was 8% more expensive.
Why should vintage products be free?
According to , one in three low-wage women will miss work, school, or other events because they don’t have access to sanitary products. APS. That’s all 44 percent of teens They report feeling stressed and embarrassed by the lack of access to sanitary products, and 25 percent of teens are unable to complete schoolwork due to lack of access. But after New York state passed a law mandating free products for students, participating New York City schools saw a rate of 2.5%.Increased attendance.
The government already provides other hygiene products such as toilet paper, paper towels and soap in public toilets for free.
Why should sanitary products be placed in the men’s restroom?
Transgender men and non-binary people also experience menstrual and period poverty, which can be reduced by placing products in men’s restrooms.
Moreover, every man knows a woman who is on her period. You may also need the product for a friend, partner, or child. Having products readily available could reduce the stigma associated with asking for items and talking about menstruation in general.
of University of Utah said of the decision to offer free period products in all public restrooms on campus, regardless of gender. It’s a small gesture that can mean the world to those who need it. ”
Source: Advocate.com – www.advocate.com
