Ending Period Poverty and Stigma
Drop-Red Storytelling Competition & Community Outreach
The Drop-red Storytelling Competition is organized every year in commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD) which is celebrated every May 28th. In alignment with the event and in a bid to amplify the voices of women and girls and recruit boys and men as allies in the menstrual advocacy cause, to jointly demand an end to menstruation stigma and period poverty, we welcome submissions each year that support the fight to break the taboo around menstruation, end the stigma and conquer period poverty.
Using Storytelling to drive dialogue and action on period stigma and poverty
At its core, the competition serves as a catalyst for igniting conversations and fostering understanding around menstrual health and hygiene. By inviting submissions that not only acknowledge but actively confront the societal taboos surrounding menstruation, the competition becomes a rallying cry for change. It’s a call to action, urging participants to leverage the power of storytelling to dismantle stereotypes, challenge misconceptions, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
What makes the Drop-red Storytelling Competition truly impactful is its inclusive approach. By welcoming submissions from individuals of all genders, it underscores the importance of collective action in addressing menstrual stigma and period poverty. By recruiting boys and men as allies in the menstrual advocacy cause, the competition acknowledges that breaking down barriers requires solidarity and collaboration across diverse communities.
Through the art of storytelling, participants have the opportunity to not only share their own experiences but also amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized and silenced. Whether through personal anecdotes, poetry, fiction, or any other creative medium, each submission becomes a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals navigating the complexities of menstruation in a world rife with stigma and inequity.
Moreover, the competition serves as a platform for education and empowerment, providing a space for dialogue and reflection on issues that are often relegated to the shadows. By shedding light on the challenges faced by millions of individuals worldwide due to lack of access to menstrual products and proper hygiene facilities, the competition galvanizes participants to advocate for tangible solutions and systemic change.
In essence, the Drop-red Storytelling Competition transcends the realm of mere storytelling; it becomes a catalyst for social transformation. By harnessing the power of narrative to confront stigma, challenge norms, and mobilize communities, it embodies the spirit of resilience and solidarity needed to create a world where menstruation is no longer met with shame or silence, but rather with dignity, respect, and equality.
Submit your 2024 Drop-red story here and share your perspective as an IDP about dealing with periods during a crisis or in a conflict zone.