In 2023, a study by intimate care brand INTIMINA found that 19% of female college students had to choose between purchasing menstrual hygiene products (MHP) and other important expenses, like bills and groceries. The same study found that just under 50% of those students struggled to acquire MHP, whether that was due to price or other hindrances. Similar to toilet paper and soap, MHP are important resources that are needed by a large portion of the population, yet many people across the country and globe have difficulties accessing them.
This issue sparked EMU junior Irasis Barrera to start a project for change. The class “Race and Gender,” taught by Deanna Durham, challenges students to design a project with the idea of creating social change. Barrera, Jayda Jones, and Isaac North-Sandel teamed up to turn these ideas into reality. Throughout Fall 2023, the trio researched the issues and reached out to organizations around campus such as Royal Women for EMU and Student Government Association. They also created a survey to gauge student support for the cause. Results of the survey showed an overwhelming support for free MHP across campus.
Eventually, the project became connected with Deanna Reed, Mayor of Harrisonburg and advisor on the Royal Women for EMU committee. Mayor Reed was instrumental in raising over 1500 pads and tampons through fundraisers around Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. This allowed Barrera and North-Sandel to distribute the products around campus in spring of 2024.
Despite this success, the duo knew that in order to make a true impact, they needed to make the project sustainable, lasting beyond their time at EMU. This began a stage of fundraising. An Inclusive Excellence Grant, a Belong Together mini grant, and funding from SGA was acquired for a total of just under $4000. This allowed for the purchase of 11 dispensers and thousands more menstrual hygiene products from Aunt Flow, an organization that works with schools to support their menstrual needs.
To guarantee the longevity of this project, both the funding and the distribution needed to be taken over by EMU as an institution. Jon Swartz, Associate Dean of Students, helped facilitate setting aside a budget for new products to be purchased every year and the distribution of products was incorporated into the duties of EMU Health Center work study students.
EMU stands for the transformational power of community. As an institution, it works towards forging an equitable and inclusive campus where historical barriers are dismantled and marginalized communities are empowered. The act of providing free menstrual hygiene products is another step in that direction. Through the past four semesters, numerous students, faculty, and staff have contributed significantly to this success. As previously mentioned, Barrera’s and North-Sandel’s project would not have been possible without the crucial support of Durham, Mayor Reed, Swartz, and SGA. Additionally, Shannon Dycus and Hannah Beck provided instrumental guidance, support, and wisdom.
You can now find these 11 dispensers in women and gender-neutral bathrooms around campus, stocked with products for all to use.
