Students of Alfred University, readers of the world.

Ever found yourself in a bathroom emergency without the essential sanitary products? It’s time we talk about a basic necessity that often gets overlooked—menstrual hygiene. In a world made by and for cis men, it’s easy for them to forget how few things are made for us and our needs. As students navigating the hustle and bustle of university life, most of us menstruating people will experience the inconvenience and embarrassment of not having access to pads or tampons when we need them the most.

Imagine this scenario: you’re in the middle of a class, and suddenly, you realize you’re unprepared for that unexpected visitor—your period. You rush to the nearest restroom, only to discover there are no sanitary products available. The struggle is real, and it’s time to address it.

I believe that access to sanitary products should be a fundamental right for every student on campus. No one should have to face the stress and discomfort of managing their period without the necessary tools.

In collaboration with Professor Sandra Singer, director of the Women and Gender studies program, I am starting a campaign to collect signatures around campus and show administration how needed hygienic products are. This campaign aims to petition the university administration to make menstrual hygiene products freely available in all campus bathrooms. This simple yet impactful change can make a significant difference in the lives of students who menstruate.

Here are a few reasons why this matters:

  • Promoting Inclusivity: Menstruation is a natural biological process. Ensuring the availability of sanitary products helps create a more inclusive environment. This initiative acknowledges and supports the diverse needs of students. 
  • Emergency Preparedness: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes our periods are too. Having sanitary products readily available in restrooms ensures that no student is caught off guard or has to scramble to find a solution during an emergency.
  • Breaking Stigmas: By making sanitary products easily accessible, we challenge the stigma surrounding menstruation. This impactful change sends a powerful message: Periods are normal, and there’s no shame in addressing our basic needs openly.
  • Economic Empowerment: For those who may be facing financial constraints, having free sanitary products readily available alleviates the burden of an additional expense.

Now, I need your support to make this vision a reality! Your signature can make a difference and contribute to creating a more supportive and inclusive campus environment.

Scan the QR code to access the petition: https://chng.it/ByjLybSQNN

Let’s come together as a student community and make our voices heard. It’s time for our university to take a step towards menstrual equity and ensure that every student can manage their periods with dignity and ease.

Spread the word, share the petition, and let’s make this change happen!

In solidarity,

Noémie Bannerot-Polverini