Title
Recognizing October 2026 as Menopause Awareness Month in the City of Philadelphia, to
affirm the importance of ending the stigma and cultural silence surrounding menopause, and to
acknowledge it as a natural biological process that significantly impacts the physical and
emotional well-being of many individuals.
Body
WHEREAS, Menopause is a normal physiological transition that marks the end of menstrual
cycles, is often preceded by perimenopause, and is experienced by many Philadelphians across
our neighborhoods and workforce; and
WHEREAS, Perimenopause and menopause can involve vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and
night sweats), sleep disruption, mood and cognitive changes, genitourinary symptoms, and
musculoskeletal discomfort, which may affect daily functioning, caregiving responsibilities, and
job performance; and
WHEREAS, Stigma and misinformation too often silence discussion, delay care, and impede
access to effective, evidence-based treatment, diminishing quality of life; and
WHEREAS, Barriers to care including limited access to culturally competent clinicians,
coverage gaps, and out-of-pocket costs fall disproportionately on communities of color,
LGBTQ+ residents, immigrants, people with disabilities, and low-income Philadelphians,
demanding equity-focused solutions; and
WHEREAS, Employers can support affected employees by fostering respectful, inclusive
workplaces and by considering practical steps such as temperature regulation and access to
water, breathable uniforms, flexible scheduling and breaks, private spaces, and leave policies that recognize health needs; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia health systems, community-based organizations, public health
agencies, and advocates continue to expand education, advocate for legislative protections, and services that help residents navigate perimenopause and menopause with dignity and accurate information; and
WHEREAS, Bill No. 250849, passed by the Philadelphia City Council, is the first measure at th...
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