What's Next in Menstruation Justice?

Join us for an informative in-person session, ‘What's Next in Menstruation Justice? Stitching together conversations about menstruation, menopause and crisis response.’
In this event, we will explore two pressing issues in menstruation: menstruation during crisis response and menopause. Through group discussions, panels, and interactive formats, you'll have the opportunity to deepen your understanding of these topics. Additionally, participants will be invited to contribute to art-making activities, culminating in the co-creation of a quilt by the end of the session.
Our Agenda:

• 1:00 pm: Check-in
• 1:30 pm - 2:45 pm: Menstruation and Crisis Response
• 2:45 pm - 3:15 pm: Snacks, Networking
• 3:15 pm - 4:45 pm: MENO pause
• 4:45 pm - 5:00 pm: Closing
  

Menstruation and Crisis Response

While the menstrual equity movement has made significant strides, access to menstrual products and education remains critically insufficient in crisis situations. In many cases, the intersections of menstruation with gender-based violence, climate disasters, and humanitarian conflicts are often overlooked. Menstruation does not stop for these emergencies, yet both menstruators and the service providers supporting them frequently face barriers to accessing necessary supplies and education.

In this interactive workshop, participants will gather into small groups to discuss the importance of integrating menstrual health in crisis response, with a particular focus on gender-based violence, climate disasters, and humanitarian conflict.

MENO pause

Come and join us for a MENO pause where we will share and create to bring experiences, narratives, and questions about menopause and perimenopause into view. Thanks to the hard work of menstrual equity activists and advocates, open dialogue on periods is finally increasing. However, the conversation on perimenopause or menopause is often forgotten. It’s time we give voice to all parts of the menstrual cycle.

In this informative and arts-based workshop, Hayley Newman-Petryshen, from Montreal-based non-profit Monthly Dignity, will share insights gained from a series of community-based workshops focused on menopause and perimenopause. Her learnings will inform shared discussion about the representation of menopause within society and reflections on community and individual experiences. To conclude, Vancouver-based artist and social worker, Varsha Gill, will guide us in creating a MENO pause community quilt that brings to light our shared thoughts on the topic. No artistic skills are required or expected (we promise) and all materials will be provided. Bring your curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to explore. All are welcome; lived experience of perimenopause or menopause is not required.

Event Organizers

This event is a collaborative effort between Free Periods Canada and the Douglas College Menstrual Cycle Research Group. The Menstruation and Crisis Response portion of the event is funded by Columbia College and the Foundation for a Just Society, while the MENO pause segment is supported by Douglas College.

Reaching Us

For questions about registration please contact Qwisun at [email protected].

Host or Publisher Free Periods Canada Foundation