In honor of Women’s History Month, students at the University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS) had the opportunity to step into someone else’s shoes—quite literally—during the Cycle of Empathy event on March 13. Hosted by Gamma Phi Omega Sorority, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, and the UIS Women’s Center, the event aimed to foster empathy for those who experience menstrual cramps by allowing participants to feel the pain themselves.
The event took place at the UIS Student Union, where a period cramp simulator was set up for students and faculty to try. Jazmine Santiago, a member of Gamma Phi Omega, explained the concept: “We have a cramp simulator, which we will place on your stomach, allowing you to experience what it feels like to have cramps.” The sorority’s goal was to raise awareness about the severity of menstrual cramps, an often invisible but painful experience for many.
The event attracted both students and faculty who volunteered to try the simulator. “We want people who don’t menstruate to understand what it feels like and get in a woman’s shoes, so to speak,” said Timothy Redmond, a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. For many participants, this was their first time experiencing the discomfort that millions of women face each month.
The simulator’s purpose was not just to educate, but also to promote empathy. Even though menstruation is a natural part of life for half of the population, many who do not menstruate remain unaware of the intensity of the pain. The hope was that by allowing participants to feel the cramps firsthand, they would gain a deeper appreciation for those who experience them regularly.
“This event is important because it provides an opportunity for people who don’t experience menstrual cramps to understand the pain that comes with them,” said Santiago. “The more we can empathize with each other, the better we can support one another.”
While Women’s History Month is nearly over, UIS will continue to celebrate with more events. The official closing event for the month will take place on Friday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Women’s Center Lounge, where students and faculty can come together to reflect on the importance of recognizing women’s contributions and experiences.
The Cycle of Empathy event marked a unique and impactful way for UIS students to deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by those who menstruate, with the hope that such experiences will inspire greater solidarity and support across campus.
