In March of 1908, a women-led labor movement in New York laid the framework for what we call in present day International Women’s Month. Around 15,000 women marched advocating for shorter work hours, better salaries, their voting rights, and an end to child labor. The very first slogan of “bread and roses” emerged, with bread symbolizing economic security and roses representing better living standards. This movement quickly grabbed the attention of women all around the world and in 1911 was the very first International Women’s Day.
Ever since, International Women’s Month has been celebrated every March, and strives to recognize the accomplishments of women from all walks of life.
This International Women’s Month, CSR Network will be fundraising to help alleviate period poverty in the rural area of Manicaland. Period Poverty is limited or no access to sanitary wear nor menstrual hygiene education. In line with this year’s theme #BreakTheBias, CSR wishes to give 200 girls of St Josephs’ secondary school in Sakubva, Mutare a fighting chance to make something of themselves and not be held back due to period poverty. Menstruation should not be a hindrance to girls pursuing their education, in hopes that this may lead them to contribute meaningfully to the economy and play their part in breaking the bias.
The facts
- According to a report done by UNICEF, 60% of rural Zimbabwean girls and women face period poverty
- Girls in these rural areas miss at least 20% of their school life while on their period due to the lack of sanitary wear. The girls fall behind in terms of the school curricular and as a result of poor performance most are forced to drop out of school
- Girls who cannot afford sanitary wear inevitably practice poor menstrual hygiene, using newspapers/leaves/cow dung as substitute conventional materials. Studies have shown that this can lead to physical health risks such as reproductive and urinary tract infections
Immediate needs
A hygiene pack for each girl that comprises of:
- 3 packs of sanitary pads
- A bar of soap
- Materials to sew 2 reusable pads
Contact us on admin@csrnetworkzimbabwe.co.zw
