Menstrual Myths Debunked at Gaali Workshop: Promoting Education, Hygiene, and Gender Equality

Kolkata, January 6, 2025

The "Gaali Workshop - Menstruation: Breaking Myths and Taboos" was recently held at Tiljala Shed in Kolkata, led by media professional Hena Ahmed. This workshop, aimed at girls between the ages of 11 to 18, was a key part of the Interfaith Youth Leadership Programme 2024-25 by Rubaroo, promoting education and awareness aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Gender Equality, Quality Education, Sustainable Communities, and Hygiene.

The workshop focused on breaking the myths and taboos around menstruation. Through interactive discussions and demonstrations, it educated the girls about the biological process of menstruation, while addressing common misconceptions. Participants actively engaged in conversations about menstrual health, hygiene, and how to challenge societal taboos.

Anjum Khatton, a key participant, expressed her satisfaction with the workshop, emphasizing its importance in dismantling societal taboos. She remarked, "This workshop has opened my eyes to the importance of addressing menstruation openly and without shame. It aligns perfectly with the SDGs of promoting gender equality and hygiene."

Tackling Menstrual Taboos

Key discussions revolved around common menstrual taboos, including:

• Impurity and Exclusion: The belief that menstruating women are "unclean" and are thus excluded from religious and social activities.

• Silence and Shame: The stigma surrounding menstruation that prevents open conversations and access to menstrual hygiene education.

• Limited Access to Products: The lack of affordable menstrual products, particularly in marginalized communities, leading to poor hygiene practices.

The workshop also featured demonstrations of menstrual products, explaining proper usage, hygiene, and disposal practices, especially for communities with limited access to resources.

Promoting Change and Empowerment

Hena Ahmed, the facilitator, emphasized that breaking the silence around menstruation is crucial for ensuring dignity, health, and equality for women. She shared, "This workshop is a step toward creating a more inclusive society where menstruation is no longer a topic of shame or exclusion. By empowering young girls with knowledge and encouraging open dialogue, we can break the stigma and ensure better menstrual health for all."

The 2019 Academy Award-winning Netflix Documentary Short, Period. End of Sentencewas shown to the girls to inspire them and recognize the impact of menstruation on young people.

Shafkat Alam, Joint Secretary of Tiljala Shed in Topsia, added : "This workshop serves as a reminder that we must continue to break barriers and dismantle stigmas surrounding menstruation. Education and awareness are key in fostering gender equality, and it’s heartening to see initiatives like this driving positive change."

The event concluded with a call to action, urging participants to advocate for menstrual health in their communities and contribute to making menstrual hygiene a priority. This initiative is part of a broader goal of building sustainable, inclusive communities where girls and women can access the education and resources they need for better health outcomes.

As the event wrapped up, Sultana Khan remarked, "This workshop has not only been informative but also empowering. It’s a step in the right direction for ensuring a future where menstruation is treated with dignity and respect."

Shared By Hena Ahmed

Posted by She Business Time