Polytechnique Montréal is launching its "L'équité menstruelle, on règle ça" (Menstrual equity: we've got it covered) initiative, which revolves around on three key measures: 1) free distribution of reusable menstrual products, 2) establishment of private adapted sanitary facilities and 3) free access to emergency menstrual products. This initiative is unique among Canadian universities, and is notable for its environmental and social approach.
Polytechnique Montréal is continuously striving to create a more inclusive and sustainable environment. Recognized for cultivating gender equality, the engineering university is highly sought after by female students. It met Engineers Canada's target of 30% female engineers by 2030 in 2020 a decade early.
The institution's commitment to equity involves recognizing the specific barriers to success and well-being that weigh on its community members. Managing menstruation is one of those barriers.
"The menstrual experience has been taboo for a long time, but it's a normal and significant aspect of student life. It can harm academic performance, particularly by compromising class attendance or disrupting concentration and participation," notes Joséanne Bélanger-Gravel, Sustainable Development Adviser.
Menstrual equity measures can alleviate the concerns and discomfort experienced each month by approximately 3,900 members of the Polytechnique community (students, staff members and teaching staff).
"This is a natural fit with Polytechnique Montréal's efforts to continuously improve its support for female talent," Ms. Bélanger-Gravel continues. "Access to hygiene products is one issue, but we feel it's necessary to develop solutions that go beyond simply distributing disposable products. That's why we're rolling out complementary measures to prioritize more environmentally friendly options and adapt our infrastructure to promote uptake. We also hope to progressively develop the initiative so that no person is disadvantaged or marginalized because of their menstruation."
For more information
2500, Chemin de Polytechnique, Bureau A-201, 2e étage
Montréal Québec
Canada H3C 3A7
www.polymtl.ca
