Manitoba is fighting period poverty — why isn’t B.C.?

Manitoba is the first Canadian province to require free menstrual products in workplace washrooms — a regulation that takes effect this August.

Although the federal government implemented a similar policy in late 2023, it is only for federally regulated workplaces.

The Manitoba Federation of Labour said the change will help make life more affordable for people struggling to pay their bills, but some employers may be concerned with the costs associated with the policy implementation. 

The Manitoba government estimated the cost for businesses at $10 to $25 per worker, and a one-time cost of up to $300 to set up dispensers and other equipment. For a small price, businesses can decrease workplace anxiety and inequity, while increasing employee satisfaction. The cost is ultimately cheaper than covering a worker’s leave from a lack of menstrual products. 

“No one should have to worry about access to basic menstrual products while they are doing their job,” Manitoba Labour Minister Malaya Marcelino said.

Period poverty is a lack of access to menstrual products and proper menstrual education and sanitation — it is an example of gender inequality.

However, menstrual products are not limited to cisgender women — non-binary people and transgender men can use them, too. It could lead to harm or abuse if someone who does not present as a woman needs to ask for basic necessities.

Imagine a normal workday for an employee who forgot their menstrual products. They’ll need to approach their co-workers or leave the workplace early — both of which are inefficient and could possibly lead to lost wages.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine reported that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in heavy financial strain for women. When forced to pick necessities, menstrual products did not make the shopping list.

Some people may also face financial challenges in buying menstrual products at any time. As a student, paying high rent and grocery expenses, I have been in that position. This is why this policy is a necessity that allows people to focus on their work and studies, rather than choosing between tampons and food.

Because of the male-dominating society we live in, these products are deemed unnecessary by most, which is not the case. Menstruation is a natural part of the reproductive cycle and affects half of the population. It’s the same as providing soap in public washrooms.

Unfortunately, our society is still far from perfect, especially when it comes to equal treatment. Though re-education is possible, it will take time to change people’s mindsets about menstruation. It’s important to ensure the minimization of any violence and discrimination, especially for such a low cost.

Some people also may argue that menstruators can carry their own period supplies, instead of expecting their employers to provide them. However, periods are a non-avoidable cycle. It is not always predictable, which means people cannot always plan ahead.

Our main focus should not be whether B.C. can afford this requirement, but why it hasn’t already been enacted.

Many Canadian universities, including Kwantlen Polytechnic University, already provide free menstrual supplies in all washrooms since they recognize these products as a basic human need.

If educational institutions are capable of implementing this policy, then there is no reason for workplaces to avoid it.