So, this pandemic. And all the forced introspection and changes. Frankly, I’d give nearly anything to go get a Chinese foot massage in the San Gabriel Valley with friends, then eat some soup dumplings and head into a late movie. But nope. Nopety nope nope nope.
As Americans, we’re a grown dog still peeing on the training pad near the door. I guess it’s taking a while for us to learn how to act responsibly to protect ourselves and others–and I mean an embarrassingly long time. Which is a microcosm for sustainability and fair trade. Whenever we make an eco-friendly choice, we’re protecting not only our own health, but the health of the people who produce that product or service. We’re protecting our kids and their kids down the line. We’re keeping our metaphorical and literal house clean. We’re offering economic relief to those who need it most.
This blog was dormant for two years. Life got in the way. As a single mom working full time, the idea of doing one more thing at night was overwhelming. I’m still a single mom with the added demands of a kid home 24/7, but I keep having ideas. And they have to go somewhere. Why not here?
I have a lot of mixed feelings about holiday gift giving, but if you’re someone who chooses to do this (and yes, I do, but I try to keep it nuanced) I’ll have some ideas for you this month. Here’s where I’m starting:
SOCIAL IMPACT STARTUP: OLUNA PANTS
If you’re like me, you’ve pretty much given up any clothing that binds (looking at you, jeans and underwire) and opt for things that are forgiving. But also, feeling schlumpy too many days in a row does a number on your mental health. Enter Oluna, a fresh new take on fashion that provides net-positive social impact.
For every pair of pants sold, Oluna strives to bring attention to menstrual health inequity by donating a year’s supply of period products to an American in need. The first batch of products will be distributed to homeless shelters in Dallas.
From Oluna: “The United Nations has declared the inability to access menstrual hygiene products a public health, gender equality, and human rights issue. We hope to shine a spotlight on the United States’ current policies to exclude period products from public benefits (like food stamps – SNAP or WIC); to not be covered by health insurance, Medicaid, or included in Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allowances; to not be provided in jails/prisons; to not be exempt from sales tax in the majority of states; to not be required by the FDA to disclose their ingredients; to not be readily available in schools (nurse’s office), or workplace (or any) restroom. The inability to afford or manage menstruation should not hold anyone back from educational opportunities or full societal participation.”
Learn more and order pants!