Alolika Speaks: Recent Episodes

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In this episode, I speak to you about period poverty. First, we understand the concept of multiple discrimination, substantive equality, and the need to solve intersectional issues through systemic change. Then, we understand the five barriers that cause period poverty—lack of access, lack of acceptance, lack of institutional education, lack of financial security, and lack of general awareness. After discussing each barrier, we discuss prospective solutions to them and the effectiveness of the solutions already in place. These solutions can be adopted by four players in society—governments, community organisations, academia, and individuals, along with corporate brands. The podcast ends by explaining specific ways through which individuals can contribute to the cause. And, it also tells you about a threefold approach to period poverty as proposed by the World Economic Forum. What sets this podcast apart is that we not only understand period poverty theoretically but also through statistics, factual information, and opinion. This podcast is everything you need to know about period poverty, particularly in India. Here, you learn about MHM (Menstrual Hygiene Management) through examples about initiatives such as ‘Sponsor A Girl’ campaign by Myna Mahila Foundation, the menstrual education pilot programs introduced by the State Government of Maharashtra in public schools, and a study conducted by European Sting in Uganda. In the end, do consider donating to Goonj for their ‘Not Just A Piece Of Cloth’ initiative. As part of this initiative, they distribute reusable cloth pads across India and organise meetings to inform women about MHM. If you believe period poverty is an economic, medical, political, and cultural concern—join the fight to end it.

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As John Berger once said, “In the modern world, in which thousands of people are dying every hour as a consequence of politics, no writing anywhere can begin to be credible unless it is informed by political awareness and principles.” In the 21st century, we cannot allow ourselves to be politically uninformed, uninvolved, or neutral because of the vast influence that political elements have on our everyday living. In the 21st century, we cannot see politics, history, anthropology, and other social sciences as distinct entities, because they are only multiple facets of a singular reality. Every month, join Alolika as she seeks to examine concepts, movements, and ideas that concern us as a society. Alolika believes that all components of modern society are interconnected and a current political issue can never be discussed independently without drawing upon certain historical, cultural, or economic associations. Audre Lorde was true indeed—there are no single-issue struggles. If you have any questions that you'd like to get answers to or if you simply want to learn more about the world that you live in, this is the podcast for you. — A little about Alolika: Alolika is an author, poet, and digital activist based in Bombay, India. Most of her work surrounds politics, culture, history, and identity. Her poetry has been published in international literary journals such as Yellow Medicine Review, Away With Words SSV, Capsule Stories, and so on. Her articles can be found in Brown Girl Magazine, Feminism In India, Live Wire, and so on. Alolika has been a community editor at Youth Ki Awaaz and is currently volunteering with the UNHCR. She is also volunteering at Myna Mahila Foundation for the Annual Myna Speaks Conference. Meanwhile, she manages Twitter for Young India Foundation. Alolika runs a page called ‘Alolika Speaks’ on Instagram where she has addressed issues such as inclusive healthcare, ethical fashion, IPV and VAW, egalitarian pedagogy, workplace discrimination, and so on. On her page, Alolika runs a monthly program called ‘Amplify Her’ under which she speaks about one woman-owned organisation and their work. Previously, she has covered Inner Goddess, Umbara Designs, and Paalaguttapalle Bags. If her work interests you, feel free to give her a follow on Instagram (@alolikaspeaks) and Twitter (@alolikaspeaks).