Yeah, it's not Monday, but we're still going to talk about menstruation. Don't stress out about it too much; alliteration is not the only literary device we know how to use here.
1. I've recently started more actively using the Clue app and while I'm not yet ready to actively endorse it, I do quite like their newsletter, which has been bringing all kinds of interesting period content to my inbox. I'm not sure if you can subscribe without registering in the app, though, so I'll pass along the best stuff here for those who don't want to sign up. First off is this piece, "Is Period Slang Ever Useful," offered in support of Clue's #justsayperiod campaign. It's built around an interview with the professor who taught my menstruation studies class, and it's all about the power of words and language, so I might be biased, but I think it's worth a read. And don't ever forget that the term "period" itself is a euphemism. Interrogate ALL THE WORDS!
2. If you're looking for something to do in the wake of the many recent devastating hurricanes, may I suggest donating menstrual products to one of the many groups collecting such donations, especially for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands? I donated via a coworker who was collecting for a local drive; try looking for similar projects in your area through schools, churches, or governmental sources, or go through larger aid organizations.
3. And don't forget that for many menstruators getting regular access to affordable menstrual products is a monthly recurring small-scale disaster with real, concrete effects on health and well-being. Consider donating to other supply collections, including those right here in the U.S. Here's one taking place on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota that I recently saw a call for on Facebook. It's super easy to donate via the Amazon wish list.
4. Here's a fun comic-style review of period panties by Niki Smith as part of Erica Moen's wonderful Oh Joy Sex Toy website. Have any of you out there tried period panties? I am SO curious but I have to admit that a) not having access to laundry in my current apartment (ugh, I hate the laundromat so much) and b) being very wary of the whole Thinx empowerment feminist marketing scheme has so far given me pause.
5. Finally, this is slightly old news but I just heard about it, and it's in my 'hood so I'm particularly interested: Harvard College is in the first stages of implementing new policies about providing free menstrual products to its undergraduates. This seems to be happening both in the dorms and in campus buildings. Obviously this is GREAT and if anyone out there knows anything more about how these policies have developed and whether there have been any new changes for the fall 2017 semester, I'd love to know. It good to see at least a little positive movement, especially from a giant, influential player like Harvard—every baby step counts!