In the general imagination March 8 – Women’s Day. In fact, the meaning of this day is not a tribute to femininity, but a real political claim. The real name of the anniversary is actually International Women’s Day and its purpose is to lead the fight for gender equality in all its nuances. The origins of this anniversary are very different from country to country, but as far as the history of Italy is concerned, we must turn to 1946, when he resumed the celebration after the end of World War II.initiated by the Italian Communist Party and the Italian Women’s Union (UDI). To invent, so to speak, the symbol of this day were three Italian politicians, three partisans: Teresa Noce, Rita Montagna and Teresa Mattei.

The choice fell on Mimosa like a poor flower that the less affluent might find, but showy and edgy, it is impossible to ignore, just like the need to promote women’s rights. its meaning he was so powerful at the time that he became a subversive symbol. To keep the essence of this symbol, we must remember to negotiate. March 8, 2023 not as a consumer event in which the essence of femininity is celebrated based on gender stereotypes, but to make it a day of protection and action even more than others. In this sense they various initiatives and events are held in Italy, above all thanks to the commitment of Non una di meno, which organizes marches and mobilizations on this day, renamed Lotto Marzo. For our part, we would like to point out a few associations and initiatives to know to support women and anyone who identifies as such, all year round. You can make a donation to support through the official websites, links to which are given in the article.

Laura Adai on Unsplash

Aidos

Born in the 80s.Italian Women’s Development Association (AIDOS) operates in developing countries, in international offices and in Italy to create, promote and protect the rights, dignity and freedom of choice of women and girls. As stated on the official website (here), the focus of AIDOS is “ongoing and equal” dialogue with women’s and non-governmental organizations around the world, with those involved in human rights, women’s rights and the LGBTQIA+ community.

mom chat

As written on the official website (here) mom chat is: the first European institution to offer online psychological help through low-cost psychotherapy and free and anonymous chat. The action of this association takes place at different levels of support: assistance to psychological health; for a way out of forms of violence, from physical to economic and persecution; assistance in motherhood and pregnancy; helping people with eating disorders.

BEE

L’Endometriosis Projects Association (APE) was born in 2005 when a group of women with endometriosis experiences living in their own skins decided to turn their experiences into concrete support for other women. As stated on the official website (here), the purpose of APE is primarily to spread information and knowledge about the disease among women, their families, medical personnel and institutions. Among the projects are scattered autonomous groups that offer support in the form of self-help and free training of medical personnel.

Pangea Onlus

As stated on the association’s official website (here) Pangea Onlus it operates in Italy, Afghanistan and India through the strength and alliance of dozens of local associations. Pangea is engaged not only in field projects, but also in advocacy and research to be able to conduct research and analysis and make it accessible to all, and to guide institutions on the right path of development and empowerment of women.

CADMI

There Shelter for abused women in Milan (CADMI) is the first Anti-Violence Center established in Italy in 1986 as part of the UDI (Italian Women’s Union). As you can read on the official website (here) CADMI operates in the field of law, hospitality, vocational guidance and training. In addition, a dedicated telephone line is available for those who experience difficulties.