Workplace Diversity and Inclusion: A Panel Discussion on Menstruation and Menopause in Different Workplaces

To commemorate the International Day for Menstrual Hygiene (celebrated on May 28th) a one-of-its-kind event was organized by the centre, which celebrated the launch of vending machines for female sanitary products at LUMS. The launch of the sanitary products vending machine is seen as a revolutionary step towards creating a more inclusive space for women inside the university premises. Dr. Zubair Khalid (Associate Professor, Syed Babar Ali School of Science and Engineering (SBASSE), Dr. Alnoor Bhimani (Honorary Dean, SDSB-LUMS) and Dr. Arshad Ahmad (Vice Chancellor, LUMS) gave their remarks at the launch event. The event, titled “Workplace Diversity and Inclusion: A Panel Discussion on Menstruation and Menopause in Different Workplaces”, celebrated the inauguration of the book, “Period Matters: Menstruation in South Asia” by human rights lawyer and writer, Farah Ahamed. The discussion featured a panel led by Farah Ahamed herself and included Radha Paudel (founder and CEO of “Global South Coalition for Dignified Menstruation”), Amna Mawaz Khan (classical dancer and activist) and Dr. Ayra Indrias Patras (Assistant Professor and activist).

The talk reflected on the efforts of Farah Ahamed’s book to bring the conversations of menstruation and menopause on the forefront, particularly in the light of South Asia. Divulging in various perspectives of the topic, the discussion further elaborated on the physical and psychological exertions of women that are troubled by lack of accessible hygienic products, and the impact of menopause on their personal and professional life.