On 2 June 1946, Italians went to the polls in a historic referendum to choose between a republic and a monarchy. This day also marked the second time Italian women were allowed to vote, following their participation in the first post-war municipal elections.
The Decree of 10 March 1946 had granted women aged 25 and over the right to vote and stand as candidates in these first post-war local elections. This milestone reflected profound social transformations: during both World Wars, women assumed responsibilities previously reserved for men, took on critical roles in the workforce, and, during the second war, served as couriers, informants, and active participants in the resistance against Nazi-Fascist occupation. After the war, postponing the extension of suffrage to women was no longer conceivable, as society could no longer ignore their essential contributions and undeniable role in shaping the nation.
Recognising the significance of this historic achievement, and the lessons it holds for civic engagement today, ProStEUVa, in collaboration with Gabriella Porcaro, lawyer at the Foro of Pisa and legal consultant for third sector organisations in the health and social sector, organised meetings with local schools – IPSAR Giacomo Matteotti and Istituto Arcivescovile Santa Caterina – to discuss and reflect on the meaning of women’s suffrage, the right to vote today, and the enduring importance of active citizenship.
On March 28 at 8:30 AM, ProStEUVa Coordinator Angioletta Sperti will engage with students from IPSAR Giacomo Matteotti in Aula PN2 at Polo Porta Nuova, and on March 31 at 10:00 AM, Rachele Bizzari, member of ProStEUVa’s teaching staff, will meet with students at Istituto Arcivescovile Santa Caterina to explore the significance of women’s suffrage and civic engagement.
