Pink Protest
On December 20th people (myself included) gathered to call on PM Theresa May to provide free sanitary products for girls in UK already on free school meals.
Why?
Plan international conducted a survey on the affordability of sanitary products, asking 1,000 girls aged 14 to 21. They found that 1 in 10 are unable to afford sanitary products. That means far too many girls in the UK forced to use socks, tissues and even miss school to try and retain their dignity every single month.
Imagine you're out and about or at work and you suddenly find you're desperate for the loo. This has happened to everyone - and the solution is easy. It's more than likely that you are relatively near a toilet fully stocked with free toilet paper. Now imagine the same happens, except the problem isn't your bladder, its your period. Perhaps you're lucky and you are always prepared with tampons. But maybe not. Perhaps you're just about okay because there is a pharmacy down the road. But then again, maybe not. And even if it is - do you have the money for tampons?
I think some of us (May I'm looking at you) need to be reminded about how much more complicated periods are, despite being a natural and not an optional body function that millions are experiencing, every month for an average of 40 years. Do you see how ridiculous it is for a luxury tax to be applied to these products that are far from luxurious but actually a necessity?
It amazes me that something that is keeping so many vulnerable women in poverty, just for being women, is not seen as a priority by our government. A government that throws around the word feminism, but rarely acts upon it. This is why in a game of averages, poverty has a woman's face.* And why protests such as the one earlier this month are so important.
At the protest I was reminded that it's okay to feel frustrated, and its okay to ask, no, demand for better. Ignore what you have been told, channel that energy into contacting your MP. Into raising awareness - both online and in casual conversation. Let the world know why period poverty is everybody's issue.
It was such a privilege to be there at the protest, among so many people united by one issue. A great mix of speakers such as the model and activist Adwoa Aboah, MP Paula Sherriff and comedian Aisling Bea. And of course the girl who spearheaded it all, Amika George. I left feeling hopeful and empowered, ready to take further action.
Find out more:
Use the hashtag #FreePeriods
*Quoting Tahira Abdulla human rights activist from Pakistan.