Who We Are

The Black Periodt. Project was founded by Lena V. at 19 years old while she was serving as Miss Freshman at her HBCU. She wanted her platform to reflect a service initiative that addressed real, intersectional issues affecting her community. After researching disparities impacting Black communities, she discovered that period poverty was rising, yet few organizations centered Black menstruators and even fewer were led by young Black women. What began as a volunteer effort with 30 students quickly grew into a campus-wide donation drive as the need became clear.

As the work expanded, the project incorporated as a nonprofit and later obtained 501(c)(3) status. Founded and led by students, the organization has deep roots in HBCU culture and Black community leadership. Through menstrual hygiene closets, school-based activations, and direct distribution, the Black Periodt. Project has now served more than 5,000 menstruators across the Southeast.

The organization continued to grow during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, despite criticism that other issues should take priority. We maintain that menstrual equity is part of the broader fight for racial and gender justice. Period poverty affects school attendance, mental health, and economic stability, particularly for Black and marginalized communities. Our work centers those often overlooked in both Black liberation and mainstream women’s movements, ensuring dignity and access for the people who need it most.