image: Table at event
Credit: CUNY SPH
New York, NY | August 12, 2025 – On July 31, more than 200 New York City teens, 20 partner organizations, and numerous community advocates came together at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH) for the second annual Menstrual Equity Summit: PERIODT POWER!
Hosted by Teens PACT, the Harlem Health Initiative, and GorjusDoc, the event marked a powerful milestone for the menstrual equity movement in the city, putting youth voices front and center. The day-long event combined education, advocacy, art, and community building to challenge stigma, expand access to menstrual products, and celebrate gender equity.
Hosted for the first time at CUNY SPH, the summit embraced a fully youth-centered approach. Teen leaders facilitated workshops, moderated panel discussions, and led interactive sessions on topics such as menstrual health literacy, advocacy strategies, and the intersection of menstrual justice with racial and economic equity.
The event also featured a marketplace of resources, where participants connected directly with local organizations championing reproductive justice, public health, and youth empowerment.
“Too often, people think distributing period products to those in need is enough but it's time we move away from period poverty and towards menstrual equity,” said Dr. Natasha Ramsey, adolescent medicine doctor and founder of GorjusDoc. “Menstrual equity goes beyond that because menstrual equity and reproductive justice are intrinsically linked. It's ensuring that we meet people where they are, not only with products, but with knowledge and policies that empower them.”
“Period poverty affects us all, regardless of whether we menstruate or not,” said peer leader Shalena Brown. “It’s crucial to show up and advocate for those with limited access, because an injustice to one is an injustice to all.”
"Everything about the day was truly inspiring, from the exhilarating keynote to the motivating panel,” said Teens PACT Program Manager Natasha Sutherland. “I even shed a little tear watching the youth-led panel and hosting team, who created a powerful space where young people could see themselves represented in leadership, advocacy, and wellness. The youth are the real MVPs for showing up for a cause that truly matters."
“I’m honored to work with Teens PACT and its great team,” said Harlem Health Initiative Director Deborah Levine. “Helping to create a safe space for young adults to learn and expand their advocacy skills is at the heart of our mission. Congratulations to all who made this year’s summit a success.”
With momentum growing from this year's summit, event organizers and community partners are already planning for expanded programs, citywide advocacy campaigns, and a broader coalition for menstrual justice in 2026.
Stay connected and view highlights on Instagram: @teenspact
Media contact:
Ariana Costakes
Communications Editorial Manager
About CUNY SPH
The CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH) is committed to promoting and sustaining healthier populations in New York City and around the world through excellence in education, research, and service in public health and by advocating for sound policy and practice to advance social justice and improve health outcomes for all.
About Teens PACT
Teens PACT is a youth-led program dedicated to empowering young people with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make informed decisions about their health.
About Harlem Health Initiative
The Harlem Health Initiative works to reduce health inequities in Northern Manhattan through grassroots outreach, education, and advocacy.
About GorjusDoc
GorjusDoc is a health equity advocate and media creator using storytelling to bring attention to urgent public health issues affecting marginalized communities.