PARTICIPATORY DESIGN / ZINE-MAKINGIf Men Could Menstruate Zine
This community zine inspired by Gloria Steinem’s seminal essay If Men Could Menstruate, provided a platform for participants to engage deeply with the hypothetical scenario that forms the essay’s central theme– “So what would happen if suddenly, magically, men could menstruate, and women could not?”. Participants were invited to engage in dialogue with this question and build on each other’s contributions. Some copies of this zine were interspersed with opposing images that showcased the contradictions between the societal acceptance of male bodies versus those of their female counterparts, as an additional reflection.
A poster designed with excerpts from the essay forms the back of the zine.
Participants offered a vivid spectrum of responses on the societal shifts that might occur if men experienced menstruation, transcending the physical implications to delve into broader cultural, economic, and gender dynamics. Anticipations varied from practical considerations, like paid menstrual leave and free menstrual products, to broader societal shifts, such as altered gender dynamics and enhanced empathy. Some expressed concerns about reinforcing stereotypes, while others saw potential positive outcomes like improved menstrual product designs and increased funding for research on menstruation. Visual cues prompted critical reflections, with reactions ranging from annoyance at perceived insensitivity in advertisements to questioning the irony in certain visuals.
The diverse and sometimes contrasting responses unveiled through this zine activity underscore the complexity of societal perceptions of menstruation against established gender roles. While participants envisioned positive transformations, concerns about reinforcing stereotypes and the interpretation of visual cues added layers to the discussion.
This exploration highlights the importance of ongoing conversations to navigate the intricacies of societal expectations, emphasizing the need for sensitivity and critical thinking when engaging with topics that challenge established norms. Overall, this zine project served as a thought-provoking exploration, unravelling nuanced viewpoints on gender roles, power dynamics, and societal attitudes toward menstruation.