Free menstrual products in public buildings
The Issue
As a student, menstruation can begin unexpectedly, and there is no certainty about when or where it may occur. I have personally experienced starting my period during school hours after using the restroom, only to realize that I had begun menstruating. At that time, no menstrual products were available in the restroom, leaving me with no immediate way to address the situation.
Because of this, I was forced to leave the restroom to seek or purchase menstrual products and then return, which was both distressing and disruptive. The delay made it more difficult to manage properly, turning what should have been a routine hygiene concern into an uncomfortable and avoidable experience. Situations like this highlight the importance of having menstrual products readily available in school and other public restrooms.
Access to menstrual products is not a luxury—it is a basic necessity. For many people who menstruate, periods are a monthly reality that cannot be paused or avoided. Yet in public buildings like schools, libraries, shelters, and government offices, menstrual products are often unavailable, forcing people to choose between discomfort, embarrassment, or missing work, school, or essential services altogether.
The lack of free menstrual products disproportionately affects low-income individuals, students, unhoused people, and those facing unexpected financial hardship. No one should have to ask for help, improvise with unsafe alternatives, or leave a public space simply because they cannot afford or access a pad or tampon. Period poverty is real, and it quietly limits participation, dignity, and equality every single day.
Public buildings already provide necessities such as toilet paper, soap, and hand towels because hygiene is essential to public health. Menstrual products deserve the same treatment. Providing them freely is a small, practical step that has a meaningful impact—supporting attendance, productivity, and overall well-being while reducing stigma around menstruation.
By making menstrual products freely available in public buildings, we take a clear stand for equity, health, and human dignity. This change acknowledges that menstruation is a normal bodily function and that no one should be excluded or disadvantaged because of it. We urge decision-makers to act now and ensure that public spaces are truly accessible and supportive for everyone.
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The Issue
As a student, menstruation can begin unexpectedly, and there is no certainty about when or where it may occur. I have personally experienced starting my period during school hours after using the restroom, only to realize that I had begun menstruating. At that time, no menstrual products were available in the restroom, leaving me with no immediate way to address the situation.
Because of this, I was forced to leave the restroom to seek or purchase menstrual products and then return, which was both distressing and disruptive. The delay made it more difficult to manage properly, turning what should have been a routine hygiene concern into an uncomfortable and avoidable experience. Situations like this highlight the importance of having menstrual products readily available in school and other public restrooms.
Access to menstrual products is not a luxury—it is a basic necessity. For many people who menstruate, periods are a monthly reality that cannot be paused or avoided. Yet in public buildings like schools, libraries, shelters, and government offices, menstrual products are often unavailable, forcing people to choose between discomfort, embarrassment, or missing work, school, or essential services altogether.
The lack of free menstrual products disproportionately affects low-income individuals, students, unhoused people, and those facing unexpected financial hardship. No one should have to ask for help, improvise with unsafe alternatives, or leave a public space simply because they cannot afford or access a pad or tampon. Period poverty is real, and it quietly limits participation, dignity, and equality every single day.
Public buildings already provide necessities such as toilet paper, soap, and hand towels because hygiene is essential to public health. Menstrual products deserve the same treatment. Providing them freely is a small, practical step that has a meaningful impact—supporting attendance, productivity, and overall well-being while reducing stigma around menstruation.
By making menstrual products freely available in public buildings, we take a clear stand for equity, health, and human dignity. This change acknowledges that menstruation is a normal bodily function and that no one should be excluded or disadvantaged because of it. We urge decision-makers to act now and ensure that public spaces are truly accessible and supportive for everyone.
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on February 6, 2026