Menstrual Equity
Our Mission
As the name implies, GENup’s Menstrual
Equity Coalition seeks to end period
poverty and guarantee access to
menstrual products for all, with a
particular emphasis on students within
California’s education system.
Why It Matters
A lack of access to menstrual products is directly correlated with feelings of shame, self-consciousness, and embarrassment, leading to severe absenteeism and a wider achievement gap.
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The Reality: 66% of teens have avoided school while on their period, and 68% feel embarrassed to bring products to school restrooms.
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The Impact: 1 in 4 students have missed class entirely because they lacked the necessary supplies.
How Your Chapter Can Take Action
The Menstrual Equity Coalition works to achieve its goals by mobilizing GENup members to pass AB 367, by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia, into law. If enacted, AB 367 would increase access to menstrual products by mandating that public schools with students grades 6-12, California State University and community college campuses, and public agency buildings stock at least 50% of bathrooms at all times.
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Enforce the Menstrual Equity for All Act (AB 367): Audit your campus to ensure free, high-quality products are fully stocked in restrooms.
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Host Educational Workshops: Partner with trusted organizations to teach product usage and break the stigma.
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Run a Hygiene Drive: Collect and distribute essential products to disadvantaged communities.
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Reform Health Class Curriculum: Advocate to your local school board for inclusive reproductive anatomy education.
