Celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) by giving the special women in your life Mimosa flowers.
In Italy, this day is known as “La Festa Della Donna” and the Mimosa, a flower which blooms around this time of year is the universal symbol given to women on 8 March.
Dating back to 1946, the Mimosa was chosen by a communist politician Teresa Mattei at the request of Luigi Longo as the symbol of IWD. The French had already been using violets and lilies of the valley, but Teresa wanted to choose a flower that was more widely found and much more inexpensive, so she suggested the Mimosa.
#Embrace Equity
On this international day or as we say in Italian “Festa Della Donna”, we encourage you, your friends, family and colleagues and community to embrace this year’s theme #embrace equity.
Together we can try to create a more inclusive world that enables success and prosperity for all women – regardless of their circumstances.
As we celebrate, it is also important to remember that there are still issues for women worldwide that must be addressed. While there has been progress made, especially when it comes to legislation and education around working towards greater equality, safety and freedom for women world-wide, we cannot forget of all of the women who have played such an integral part in our lives.
Recognising Women that Make a Difference
The list of great Italian women is endless. There are many women who have done extraordinary things that determined the course of history. However, for the purposes of this newsletter, we will focus on Maria Montessori and her connection with Australia.
Maria Montessori (1870-1952) is an exceptional woman and was a pioneer in education. She was one of the first women to study medicine in Italy and began teaching children as early as 1895. Her work changed lives and opened doors for future generations of educators.
Today, the Montessori education program is delivered in over 110 countries across the globe. Dr Montessori was a doctor, educator, and entrepreneur and one of the most distinguished Italian women in history.
Based on its unique philosophy, the Montessori Education method is recognised as a valid and progressive method of elementary education.
In Australia, Montessori education is available for children of all ages with programs offered for children as young as 8 weeks old to age 18. Through early childhood education and care services, preschools and kindergartens, and primary and secondary schools. The number of Montessori programs in Australia is growing steadily with more than 360 schools and centres across the country educating more than 26,000 children. The majority of Montessori programs are operated by not-for-profit, community-based associations, with an increasing number of privately-owned programs and also programs within the public school system.
Montessori programs are also serving children and families in remote, indigenous Australian communities, where the Montessori philosophy unites with the culture and heritage of Indigenous Australians.
To all the beautiful women – Happy Festa Della Donna!