Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement is facing backlash after promoting a “Trans Period Pride” event at the Boston Public Library. The event, scheduled for June, focuses on menstrual equity and transgender experiences with menstruation. It includes a catered dinner and free period underwear for attendees. The workshop is supported by the Mayor’s Office, the Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY), MASS NOW, and the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition.
The event’s Instagram post describes it as a “consciousness-raising conversation around transgender experiences with menstruation.” Critics online have expressed disbelief and opposition, with some questioning the event’s legitimacy. Meanwhile, Wu has previously denied reports that city funds were used to support a program offering LGBTQ migrants up to $500 in “wellness” perks. OUTnewcomers, an LGBTQ group in Boston, later returned city grant funding after its plans clashed with local government expectations.
The Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement states its mission is to develop policies, community-oriented programming, and resources for Boston’s diverse LGBTQIA2S+ community.