On September 13th, The Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka (FPASL), in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, successfully hosted its second public event titled “Period Proud” at the Jaffna Cultural Centre. Held from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., the event aimed to shine a spotlight on period poverty, a pressing issue impacting millions of menstruators globally.

The event drew a diverse audience, spanning various age groups, all eager to engage with the topic of period poverty and explore solutions. The Jaffna Cultural Centre was abuzz with activity, featuring stalls from numerous organizations dedicated to menstruation and period poverty. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of informative and interactive displays, and vendors showcased sustainable period products alongside organizations addressing menstrual health and related issues.

The event featured over 20 stalls, including 13 from FPASL’s partner organizations involved in the CAAPP project. These stalls provided valuable information and resources on menstrual health, with a strong focus on sustainability and accessibility.

Olivia Bellemere, Cultural and Cooperation Counsellor of the Embassy of France and the Maldives, addressed the gathering, underscoring the critical nature of tackling period poverty, which affects approximately 50% of menstruators in Sri Lanka. Mrs. Sonali Gunasekera, Director of Advocacy at FPASL, welcomed the attendees and provided an overview of the CAAPP initiative and the day’s programme. Chief Guest, Hon. Sai Murali, Consul General of India in Jaffna, also delivered a speech, highlighting the necessity for collaborative efforts to address menstrual hygiene issues, particularly in the Northern and Central Provinces.

The event kicked off with a panel discussion titled "Ending Period Poverty: The Interplay of Health, Justice, and Equality." This insightful discussion explored various facets of period poverty in Sri Lanka. The panel featured Mr. V. Weerasingham, a Gender, Justice, and Conflict Sensitivity Specialist, who spoke on engaging men in menstrual health. Dr. Sivathas Sivasubramanium, a Consultant Psychiatrist, discussed the connections between gender-based violence (GBV) and period poverty. Dr. Thirumagal Sivashankar, a Consultant Community Physician, offered insights on menstrual health and hygiene management. Ms. Kosalai Mathan, a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Jaffna, addressed the legal dimensions of GBV, domestic violence, taxation on menstrual products, and related policies. Key discussion points included the need to classify sanitary pads as essential services and the call for increased political engagement in addition to the work of civil society organizations. The session was moderated by Mr. Chanthuru Thiveegan, an SRHR educator and youth activist.

The afternoon continued with a captivating lineup of artistic performances. The Semmugam Performing Group presented the play "Enge Aval," which poignantly highlighted the challenges and cultural barriers associated with menstruation. Udbhava School of Art's Bharatanatyam performance "Red Moon" explored themes of period pride and poverty through six expressive acts. The drama "Arakkanai," performed by the Integrated Arts for Social Transformation Working Group of Save a Life, tackled the stigma and discrimination faced by menstruators, focusing on the struggles of a young school student. Mesh Ground’s interactive dance performance, "Unspoken Rhythms," addressed menstruation stereotypes and conditions like endometriosis. "The Noise of Silence," presented by Arangalaya Freedom Theatre, used minimal dialogue and expressive dance to underscore the naturalness of menstruation. The event concluded with an uplifting session by Aruna Musical Group, whose music echoed the event's powerful messages of unity, strength, and breaking the silence surrounding menstruation.

FPASL remains steadfast in its commitment to raising awareness about period poverty and ensuring access to menstrual hygiene products and education for everyone. The “Period Proud” event was a significant step forward in these efforts, fostering dialogue and action towards a more equitable and informed approach to menstrual health.