Hack the Flow: Design-a-thon against menstrual stigmas

Hack the Flow is a day long event focused on eliminating stigmas surround menstruation to become a more period positive society.

There will be two tracks: 1. Raising Awareness or  2. Finding a solution 

Some women and girls have come to perceive their period as a burden seen through the media, socially, and politically. The importance of women having their period is never shown in mainstream media, but is depicted as something that should be hidden to maintain women’s idyllic view of being pure in society. In some countries, girls skip school because they can’t afford proper care and have been outcasted in their village because they have their period. In the US, young girls fear ridicule and embarrassment from their classmates if they happen to drop a pad or tampon at school perpetuating the negative connotations around menstruation. 

With HacktheFlow, we are looking to change this and focus on creating ways to reduce and eliminate stigmas about menstruation.

FAQ

1. I don’t think I’ll have anything to contribute. Should I still participate?

We encourage everyone to participate and share their experiences with others. We’re sure you have something that you can bring to the table even if you are not a designer.

2. I'm under 18. Can I join?

The event is 18+ due to liability restrictions.

3. I’m not a woman. Can I participate?

Of course! Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of their sexual identity or gender. We hope you’ll come and team up with some interesting people!

4. I’d like to participate with friends. Can I build a team before the event?

Yes you can! We do prefer that teams are a maximum of four people. Higher numbers of teammates can lead to lack of direction and increased amounts of disagreements.

5. I'm not really a designer or artist. Can I still join the jam?

If you don't feel like your skills are up to snuff, advisors will be on-site to help you. 

6. What do I need for the hackathon?

You, a laptop or tablet, and a can do attitude!

7. I don't live in New York City. What can I do?

You can share this event, organize a similar event near you, and/or make & create your own idea about the subject! Please contact us if you do make something so we can share it.

Timeline

• 9 AM: Check-in and breakfast.

• 9:30 AM: Opening remarks and team formations.

• 10:30 AM: Register teams and Hack the Flow!

• 1PM: Lunch

• 5:30 PM: 1-hour warning -- teams should work on polishing their creation and prepare to present at 6:30 PM.

• 6:30 PM: Final presentations. 

• 7 PM: Dinner and Awards!

• 8PM: Event Ends

Anti-harassment Policy

Hack the Flow is a safe space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment or harassment. All participants and visitors are expected to treat other participants, visitors, staff, and the general public with respect. Under the umbrella of respect, we expect all participants be mindful of their speech and behaviors both in person and on social media. Particularly, we want to remind participants and visitors to refrain from making assumptions about another's identity, experience, and preferred pronouns.

No form of harassment or assault will be tolerated, this includes but is not limited to physical harassment, verbal harassment, and any form of sexual assault. Those who violate this policy will be disqualified from the jam and, depending on the legality of the situation, will either be directed to leave the premises or reported to the authorities.

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please talk with an organizer or volunteer. If you see someone being treated with disrespect, please speak up either yourself or by getting an organizer/volunteer involved. With your help we can make sure everyone involved is being treated with respect.