Brooklyn Public Library’s Cycle Alliance and Her Village Inc. will be co-hosting a menstrual product distribution and donation event on Friday, May 21 at 2 p.m. Approximately 100 packages of maxi pads will be given to menstruators in need. The public is also encouraged to donate unopened boxes of maxi pads, panty shields, tampons, menstrual cups, and children’s and adult diapers to stock future distribution days.
The Cycle Alliance launched in the fall of 2019 as part of the Brooklyn Public Library’s BKLYN Incubator initiative. Through funding provided by the Charles H. Revson Foundation and Robin K. and Jay L. Lewis, the Cycle Alliance (CA) aims to empower teens of all genders to speak about issues surrounding menstruation, challenge period shaming, and address period poverty. The pandemic curtailed the reach of CA, and it has been solely a virtual program for teens. Over a dozen teens have participated in Cycle Alliance-themed talks, movie parties, and workshops. This summer teens and young adults will once again be able attend these virtual workshops
Period poverty is the inability to purchase menstrual products because of financial constraints. Women are the most economically vulnerable group in New York City. Lack of access to period hygiene products has led to menstruators to skip work or school. Menstrual products are essential yet expensive. Those who cannot afford period products are embarrassed to admit it because of the social taboo surrounding menstruation and financial insecurity. Through future workshops and product distribution events, the Cycle Alliance hopes to fight this stigma and assist those in need.
This blog post reflects the opinions of the author and does not necessarily represent the views of Brooklyn Public Library.
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