Declares May 28 of each year as Menstrual Equity Day in New Jersey.
The resolution addresses the significant issue of period poverty which affects one in four menstruators nationwide, and one in eight in New Jersey. Period poverty can result in severe social and economic repercussions, causing individuals to miss work or education due to inadequate menstrual supplies, thereby perpetuating cycles of poverty. By formally recognizing Menstrual Equity Day, the state highlights the importance of menstrual health as a public health matter and advocates for improved access to necessary menstrual products.
ACR159, a concurrent resolution introduced in the New Jersey legislature, declares May 28 of each year as Menstrual Equity Day. This resolution is aligned with the international observance of Menstrual Hygiene Day and seeks to bring attention to the challenges that menstruators face, particularly those related to period poverty. The resolution calls on the Governor to commemorate this day with appropriate programs and encourages citizens and elected officials to work toward reducing period poverty and stigma, ensuring access to menstrual supplies for all individuals who menstruate.
Although ACR159 has a strong message of inclusivity and health equity, there may be underlying tensions related to funding and resource allocation for programs aimed at addressing period poverty. Critics may raise concerns about the feasibility of implementation and how to effectively engage various stakeholders in the reduction of period stigma. Furthermore, advocates are likely to discuss the practical steps needed to transform the goals of Menstrual Equity Day into concrete actions that can lead to real changes in policy and societal attitudes.
ACR159 also recognizes the contributions of activists and organizations, such as the statewide coalition 'Equality, Period. NJ,' which is dedicated to eliminating period stigma and improving access to menstrual products through advocacy and policy change. The bill indicates a growing acknowledgment of menstrual equity as a crucial aspect of social justice and health equity, particularly following the exacerbation of these issues during the COVID-19 pandemic.