Combating Period Poverty at the University
As part of the effort to combat period poverty, and in conjunction with government measures currently being implemented, theUM combines social solidarity with creativity by offering the RelaX program.
Did you know?
33% of students report facing financial difficulties in purchasing menstrual products. This is according to a survey published in February 2021. Source: fage.org
These challenges have an impact on the physical, psychological, and social well-being of those in the most vulnerable situations. Some people use sanitary products for longer periods, thereby increasing their risk of toxic shock syndrome; others make do with whatever they have on hand, or simply choose not to go out during their periods.
Whether led by individuals, organizations, or institutions, initiatives have emerged to combat period poverty, such as the campaign proposed by Mélanie Jaoul, an associate professor of law at the University of Montpellier, or the student association at the Montpellier-Sète University Institute of Technology (IUT), Les Solibox.
TheUM is committed to
Now it’s the University of Montpellier’s turn to take action by launching a solidarity initiative called RelaX. RelaX is designed to ensure that every student can manage their menstrual cycle with dignity.
Designed and created by the Montpellier-based design duo Mr. & Mr., these brightly colored bags are available to the public on the university’s various campuses. They are self-service bags for depositing and taking sanitary products (pads, tampons, and panty liners).
The first trash bags were placed in early March in several student common areas on the Triolet and Richter campuses. More will soon be placed in the restrooms at various locations across theUM.