Addressing Period Poverty in Cowichan
CWHC’s findings from its Period Poverty Project were incorporated into the BC Period Poverty Task Force’s Report to the Province of British Columbia.
Period poverty means not being able to get menstrual products and hygiene opportunities when they are needed , that are of your choosing, that fit your body and your needs, and are of good quality, affordable, sustainable, and in the amount you need.
Period poverty is a community issue. Increasing access to menstrual products for people with limited resources will make Cowichan a healthier place, where the needs of its citizens are recognized and addressed. This community based action research project proposes to explore stigma around menstruation and ways in which products can be more readily available in the community through working collaboratively with local partners.
One way CWHC explored barriers to menstrual equity was through Photovoice: a participatory research method where people use photography and storytelling to document and share their lived experiences and community concerns. Photography allows an expression of lived experience and creates space for alternate voices in research about social justice issues. The images ground the abstract concepts of menstrual equity and period poverty by providing concrete examples of how women can be distressed or frustrated by their periods.
Period Poverty Cowichan: A Photovoice Exhibition
October 24 - November 10 2023
CVAC Studio: 2687 James Street, Duncan
11am-4pm Weekdays - 12pm-4pm Saturdays
Launch Event 5pm-7pm Tuesday, October 24
Publications: thediscourse.ca/cowichan-valley/period-poverty-in-cowichan