On March 19, 2025, Girls Inc. had the honor of joining world leaders and advocates at the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York City. Girls Inc. joined PERIOD. for a powerful panel discussion that explored the power of youth activism in ending period poverty.  

The Commission on the Status of Women is the UN’s largest annual gathering about women’s empowerment, where leaders from all over the world address issues affecting women. This year, Girls Inc. girls and alumnae focused on how period poverty affects women in the United States. Girls Inc. defines period poverty as the lack of access to menstrual products, menstrual hygiene education, hygiene facilities, and waste management, as well as the surrounding stigma on conversations about menstruation.  

Two Teen Advocacy Council (TAC) alums and one current TAC member traveled to New York to serve as youth panelists and kicked off the discussion by advocating for an end to period poverty and the stigma surrounding menstruation. Melissa, an alum from Girls Inc. of New York City, shared, “Women have been taught to be ashamed of their bodies—from the way it looks, to the way it moves, to the way it reproduces, and the way it bleeds. These aspects of our bodies are not up for debate or control. We need to end the cycle of misinformation and stigma that perpetuates not only poor health practices but also poor self-esteem and a lack of bodily autonomy among women and girls.”  

Bre, Annicha, and Melissa (left to right) in front of the headquarters of the United Nations.

The discussion emphasized the importance of youth voices in movements like this one, with each advocate expressing her belief that young people bring fresh perspectives, energy, and urgency to these critical issues. Annicha, from Girls Inc. of Washington County, highlighted the importance of youth advocacy: “We are amplifying a voice to outside ears. Whether they choose to listen to the words you speak, the words still have power and influence… We speak to be heard so that we can inherit a world that has less problems of the prior generations and so that we can set it up for future generations after us. It’s cyclical.”  

The panel also touched on how young people can get involved, with each speaker reflecting on their own experiences. Bre, an alumnae of Girls Inc. of San Antonio highlighted, “So many decisions happen at the local level. Whether it be at your state legislature, city council, or school board, you have the power to get involved and advocate for the needs of your community. You know the experience of your community and what solutions would be effective.” 

CSW gave Girls Inc. advocates the opportunity to speak to leaders and advocates from all over the world. The girls were able to discuss unique approaches from around the world to addressing period poverty and breaking the stigma surrounding periods. Speaking on CSW’s international stage was not just a moment to highlight the importance of ending period poverty, but also a reminder of the power young people have to influence global conversations and create lasting change.