Unclean

Abstract

Growing up in urban Sri Lanka, a girl's first period was considered a celebration, feted publicly in a grandiose fashion often symbolizing the family's social status. As a private person, the idea of publicizing this very private affair was uncomfortable and embarrassing. What was more startling was the huge lifestyle and societal changes that were now a part of my life. I was now told to limit my seating, interactions with people, and even clothing because I was considered 'unclean'. This...