Learn how to foster conversations about "TAMPON tax" REPEAL with people of various political affiliations below! This page is divided into four parts: Language, FRAMING Your DISCUSSION, Statistics, and Government Officials’ Endorsement of “Tampon Tax” Repeal, each outlining tips for productive dialogue.
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When discussing “tampon tax” repeal, word choice can often be a “red herring,” detracting from the core issue. For example, terms like "menstruator" or "tampon tax" may provoke different reactions depending on the political stance of the audience. Understanding your audience's political and cultural context will help you select language that promotes productive dialogue rather than divisive debate.
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FRAMINGYOUR DISCUSSION
WHY REPEAL?
Learn about arguments for tax repeal in this section! NOTE: Because people have inconsistent opinions about reasons for "tampon " tax repeal, this section does not identify which arguments are most effective for your audience.
There are many arguments for tax repeal, but to understand the primary four, see below.
According to Laura Strausfeld, founder of Period Law, legislators are most receptive to tax repeal when they learn that menstruators bleed through their clothing if they lack period products. “Bleeding through” is correlated with depression and absenteeism in schools and the workplace. This concept is valuable to share in conversation to draw sympathy from those without a uterus and to reiterate that menstrual products are medically necessary.
Laura strausfeld on "Bleeding through"
STATISTICS
If individuals dismiss the “tampon tax” as insignificant, data is a convenient way to challenge audience uncertainty. The "Statistics Chart" features a series of statistic to assist youth in discussing “tampon tax” repeal with others. DISCLAIMER***When talking to those of different partisan affiliations, the politics of your source may shape audiences’ responses.
STATISTICS
If your audience is skeptical that “tampon tax” repeal is not a bipartisan issue, refer them to the "Officials' endorsement chart." This chart features a list of noteworthy supporters of "tampon tax" repeal (in no particular order).
Wikimedia Commons
Wikimedia Commons
Flickr
OFFICIALS' ENDORSEMENT
OF TAX REPEAL
Interested in learning more about "tampon tax" repeal? See these resources...
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The Nation: "With Abortion Rights Under Attack, Menstrual Equity Gains Support"
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University of Richmond Law Review: "The Unconstitutional Tampon Tax"
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Women's Media Center: "Why 'Tampon Tax' Repeal Could Find Bipartisan Support"
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TIME: “President Obama Doesn’t Understand the ‘Tampon Tax,’ Either”
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Obstetrics & Gynecology: "Unmet Menstrual Hygiene Needs Among Low-Income Women"
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Period to Pause: "The Tampon Tax, Period Poverty, and Menstrual Equity with Laura Strausfeld"
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The New York Times: "Texas is the Latest State to Drop the 'Tampon Tax'"
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Michigan School of Public Health: "Changing the Cycle: Period Poverty as a Public Health Crisis"
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