In celebration of ‘Menstrual Hygiene Day’, Canadian MPs wore bracelets for the length of a menstrual cycle to break systemic barriers.
On Tuesday, members of the Canadian Parliament wore white and red beaded bracelets to show support for menstrual equity in the country.
In a video on X, MP Terry Beech stated that millions of women are “unable to reach their full potential, simply because they menstruate,” adding that “this day is about reducing the stigma.”
X users are commenting on Beech’s menstrual video, noting how unsettling it is to witness him and other male politicians celebrating women’s monthly bleeding.
“You can’t tell me this isn’t creepy as hell. Grown men wearing bracelets for girls & women’s periods,” one user commented on X.
Minority groups face menstrual obstacles
However, some MPs are not just celebrating women but every Canadian, as they claim menstrual cycles are not gender specific.
“People who get their period deserve affordable menstrual products – period,” said MP Lisa Hepfner.
She added, “On #MenstrualHygieneDay we wear our Menstruation Bracelets – representing the average menstrual cycle – to fight back against the stigma and continue to work towards a #PeriodFriendlyWorld.”
Additionally, MPs are advertising the Menstrual Equity Fund, which focuses on breaking barriers that minority groups face when managing their period.
“Lack of access to menstrual products is closely linked to poverty and disproportionately impacts youth, single mothers, Indigenous peoples, Black and other racialized communities, immigrants, people experiencing homelessness, people living with disabilities, gender diverse individuals, and those who live in remote areas,” the Government of Canada website states.
In budget 2022, the Canadian Government reserved $25 million to establish the Menstrual Equity Fund, which will deliver free menstrual products to all Canadians.
