A “reverse euphemism?”
You’ve heard of a euphemism (a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant). Think downsized instead of fired. A correctional facility instead of a jail. Light bladder leakage instead of incontinence.
Well, here is a case where an organization is giving something a name that is MORE offensive in order to accomplish a worthy goal.
The Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board unanimously adopted a new term, “menstrual discharge collection devices” (MDCDs), to replace “feminine hygiene products,” aiming to clarify the essential nature of these items and end the discriminatory “tampon tax.”
The term change aims to eliminate debates in male-dominated legislatures regarding the necessity of taxing menstrual products and prevents arguments about comparable products for men.
Despite some initial resistance, the term “MDCDs” has gained acceptance, with Kentucky and Indiana already introducing bills using the new terminology, following the example of Texas and other states that have ended the tampon tax since 2016.
Applause for this creative use of naming!
"Better Branding Through Science"
