Hawaii

Proposal Summary

Proposal

Make menstrual health education mandatory.

Possible Advancements

Require Hawaii Elementary, Middle, and High Public Schools (grades 4-12) to have a comprehensive menstrual health curriculum that is “age appropriate” for the respective grade being taught.
Teach about the following topics:
- Native Hawaiian view and culture on the menstrual cycle before Western colonialist views arrived on the islands.
- Menstrual cycle.
  - Stages of the menstrual cycle.
  - Body parts involved in the menstrual cycle.
- Common effects of the menstrual cycle on everyday life.
  - Body cramping, headaches, mood swings, etc.
- Usage of various menstrual products.
  - What they are.
  - How to use different menstrual products.
- Discuss health problems from menstrual cycle.
Bring in qualified teachers and professionals who have knowledge in menstrual cycle and health and who can properly break down these topics for students.
Goal to reduce the stigma for any menstruating student and discussion surrounding their menstrual cycle.

Implementation

To be announced.

Definitions

“Age Appropriate” - curriculum that is able to be understood and comprehended by respective grade being taught.
“Menstruating student” - Any student (regardless of gender they identify with) who menstruates.
“Qualified teachers and professionals” - Health professionals who are experts on menstrual health, especially in Hawaii.
“Period poverty” - lack of consistent access to menstrual products, due to availability and/or expensive cost.