Brockville to show support on Menstrual Health Day with flag raising, proclamation

Advocates for menstrual equity sent a letter to Brockville City Council, urging them to support Menstrual Health Day on May 28, 2025 with a flag raising and official proclamation. This request comes from a non-profit organization called The Period Purse and the motion was brought to council at their general meeting on Tuesday April 13. 

Founded in 2017, The Period Purse has supported thousands of menstruating individuals across the country by distributing kits of essential products to those in need and advocating for better access to education about periods. The organization also runs public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma around periods and addressing the hidden barriers menstruators face every day.

Lianne Sinclair, Awareness Coordinator for The Period Purse, submitted a formal request to council earlier this year, noting that Brockville’s food bank is now receiving menstrual products through the Menstrual Equity Fund. 

“This is an issue that exists in your community, throughout the province, and across the country,” the request stated. “One in four Canadian menstruators have been forced to choose between purchasing menstrual products and other basic essentials like food or rent in the last year.”

Sinclair believes that municipal support is vital to recognizing menstrual equity as a public health issue, not a private one. 

The City of Brockville has recognized Menstrual Health Day in past years and in a show of continued support, Brockville City Council voted unanimously in favour of proceeding with a proclamation and flag raising this year. The Period Purse flag will be flown at Tunnel Bay from May 26 to June 2 of this year.