Men need to grow up about women’s issues

IT is an interesting time in the world of global gender dynamics where traditionally relied upon boundaries, identities and norms are being challenged.

The #MeToo campaign saw a massive shift in power dynamics, with long-accepted sexual predators (‘oh that’s just his way’) finally being called out for what they are – rapists – and brought to book.

Along with the downfall of the Harvey Weinsteins, R Kellys, Jeffrey Epsteins and Bill Cosbys, issues such as gender fluidity are being discussed.

Transgender is now becoming an accepted identity with schools even acknowledging the need for inclusivity in this realm.

Our own Caster Semenya is leading the fight in terms of intersex athletes and forced testosterone-reducing medication.

And – finally – the issue of menstruation and the impact on women’s lives is being brought to light in open discussion.

The stigma associated with something biologically essential and completely unavoidable is being cast aside as we celebrate things such as Menstrual Hygiene Day on 28 May and #FreetoBleed.

The South African government has joined many other nations in abolishing tax on vital sanitary wear, bringing down the price to make the monthly purchase more affordable.

While great strides are being made, the fact remains that this monthly cost is still too much for many young women in disadvantaged communities.

There are no current statistics, but the reality is that many South African schoolgirls are missing valuable class time during their periods because of a lack of access to proper sanitary wear.

Those that can’t afford pads might avoid school or turn to items such as newspapers or leaves in an effort to address the problem – unhygienic solutions ultimately resulting in illness.

Not to mention the poor – if existent – ablution facilities in the more rural schools. It’s an issue of dignity.

Fortunately, this is a problem that is now being addressed.

The KZN Department of Education has started distributing free sanitary pads to school-goers in impoverished communities; NPOs are securing sponsorship and assisting where they can and some major retailers are encouraging donations of sanitary wear at till points.

My personal favourite is the introduction of washable and reusable sanitary wear – both ecologically and economically beneficial.

This is all good news, but the stigma of the period remains.

And the reality is it’s now up to the men to grow up, address their issues with periods and openly support women in whatever way they can.

For women, periods are a fact of a life, a shared sisterhood experience. It’s not necessarily something we want to go through every month and we don’t need to deal with men’s discomfort around the issue on top of this.

So, maybe this Women’s Month, go out, buy a box of sanitary pads with pride and ensure one more schoolgirl will attend class this month.

We’re in this together. Period.

The reality is it’s now up to the men to grow up and openly support women in whatever way they can, writes LAUREN ANTHONY