Billions of women throughout the world have their periods, and billions more face the stigma associated with periods and the high expense of feminine products. This is a petition asking Mayor Eric Adams and NYC officials to join the movement and provide free feminine products in public places, starting with public schools. We women have witnessed the inequity and difficulties that women experience daily for accessing feminine products. Period products, like toilet paper, are a necessity the government should provide for free that in all public places; this petition is not just for free feminine products, but also for period products that are environmentally friendly and safer for our bodies. It is crucial that we do all possible to protect our environment.

Tampons and other period items have been proven to be very toxic to our bodies, containing toxins such as dioxins, furans, pesticide residues, plastics, and plasticizers, all of which have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity. Most period products are not only harmful to our health, but they are also harmful to the environment, taking 500-800 years to degrade. Companies like August and The Organic Project have been some of my biggest inspirations for this petition. Both companies seek to make period products that are safer and sustainable for women and the environment, and their amazing work has changed the lives of thousands of women all around the world.

My name is Joseina Breton, and I am a junior in High School in the South Bronx. This project I started as part of my capstone project for Our Future in Science. Which is a program that works to connect science and social justice. My hope is that this petition reaches the representatives of New York City, so that we may make a real difference. As the oldest sister of three sisters, it is my responsibility to initiate this petition to help create a change so that they can grow up in a society where period products are as easily accessible as toilet paper and are both safe and free. My long-term objective is to make change not only in New York City, but the entire country, and maybe additional countries will follow. 

Even if you are not a female or do not have your period, your signature is a step toward improving the lives of women all over the world. By supporting this cause, you are helping someone in your family or in your life.