The Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) proudly unites with workers across this province in the fight for menstrual equity and we are proud to support MPP Alexa Gilmour’s legislative efforts to advance menstrual health in Ontario.
Menstrual equity is a matter of dignity, health, and workers’ rights. No one should be forced to navigate their workday without access to basic necessities, face stigma for a natural bodily process, or lose pay because their workplace refuses to recognize their health needs. Yet, that is the reality for far too many workers.
Across Ontario, workers are still paying out of pocket for essential menstrual products, improvising in unsafe or undignified ways, or missing work altogether. Too many workplaces ignore the realities of menstruation and menopause, pushing workers, especially women, trans, and non-binary people, into silence, discomfort, and economic insecurity. That is unacceptable.
The labour movement has always been at the forefront of winning dignity at work, on wages, safety, and equity. Menstrual equity is no different. When governments and employers fail to act, workers and unions lead the way forward. That is why the OFL is calling on the Government of Ontario to:
- Mandate that all employers provide free menstrual products in every workplace washroom, regardless of gender designation.
- Legislate paid menstruation and menopause leave, recognizing these as legitimate health needs that must not result in lost income or discipline.
- Invest in education and healthcare supports, ensuring workers have access to accurate information, medical care, and stigma-free environments.
We also strongly support MPP Alexa Gilmour’s initiatives being tabled on May 28:
- The Menstrual Health Day Act, which would proclaim May 28 as Menstrual Health Day in Ontario, raising awareness, challenging stigma, and recognizing menstruation as a natural and important aspect of health.
- A motion requiring employers to provide free menstrual products in all washrooms, regardless of gender designation, ensuring accessibility, inclusion, and dignity for all workers.
When workers have what they need to be healthy and safe, everyone benefits. When workers are supported, workplaces are safer, more productive, and more inclusive.
The OFL calls on government and employers to do the right thing. End stigma, close equity gaps, and build workplaces that respect the full humanity of every worker. Equity at work must include menstrual equity. Period!
Call to Action
Join us in taking action for Menstrual Health Day (May 28):
Wear Red
- Wear red on May 28 to show support for menstrual equity.
- Take photos in your workplace or community space.
- Share on social media and tag @OFLabour and use hashtag #EndPeriodPoverty
Pledge Support
- Pledge your support for menstrual equity and help build momentum for change.
Take Workplace Action
- Send a letter to your employer demanding:
- Free menstrual products in all workplace washrooms (all genders).
- Formal recognition of menstruation and menopause as workplace health issues.
Together, we can end stigma, fight inequity, and build workplaces that respect the dignity of all workers.
Cope343
