Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 people born with a uterus, yet most people have never heard of it. Every month, thousands of young people across New York grapple with severe menstrual pain and conditions like endometriosis, often without ever recognizing that their experiences are not normal. The consequences are dire: years of delayed diagnosis, unnecessary pain, missed school days, and a cycle of emotional and physical hurdles that nobody should have to face alone.

At the heart of this problem is the incomplete or entirely absent menstrual health education in our schools. Diagnosis is delayed by an average of 7 to 10 years, largely due to a lack of awareness and understanding. For young people facing these conditions without knowledge or support, every month becomes a cycle of discomfort and distress. It is not normal. And it does not have to be this way.

Currently, New York's legislative bodies are divided on this critical issue. The New York State Senate has already taken a decisive step by passing companion bill S6227. However, Assembly Bill A7557, introduced by Assembly member Rebecca Kassay, remains stalled in the legislative process. We need to rally our voices to ensure its passage.

If passed, A7557 would amend New York State's education law to include menstrual disorders, including endometriosis, in the health education curriculum in public schools. Students across New York would learn:

• The signs and symptoms of endometriosis and other menstrual disorders
• The importance of menstrual health and its impact on physical, emotional, social, and academic life
• How to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system
• Basic treatment options and where to find support

This is not a new idea. New York has done this before, and now it is time to go further. In 2019, EndoFound helped pass historic legislation making endometriosis educational materials available to schools statewide. A7557 takes the next critical step, bringing this education directly into the classroom where it belongs.

Imagine if no one had to miss school, skip sports, or hide in the bathroom during their period for years on end before anyone told them something was actually wrong. Imagine if the next generation grew up empowered, knowing what to ask, who to ask, and that they never had to suffer in silence the way so many before them did.

That future starts with this bill.

Sign this petition and tell the NYS Assembly: pass A7557.

Together, we can make a difference.