An exhibition documenting the history of women in the Italian Parliament from 1948 to 1992 is now on display in the 18th-century courtyard of the University of Milan until October 2nd. It will subsequently move to the Nilde Iotti Library in Montecitorio, Rome, starting October 15th.
Titled ‘Women Deputies and Senators of the Republic: Roles, Periods, and Actions of Women in Parliament (1948-1992),’ the exhibition features previously unpublished materials, photographs, and documents from public and private archives, including those of the Chamber of Deputies, the Senate, and the Presidency of the Republic.
University Rector Marina Brambilla described the tribute as “necessary,” stating that it “not only recounts the history of women in institutions but also the path of emancipation and participation that enabled their entry into the nation’s decision-making spaces. Celebrating women parliamentarians thus adds another piece to building a future where women’s voices must continue to be central to democratic life.”
However, the path to parity remains long. At the inauguration, Chamber of Deputies Vice President Anna Ascani noted “persistent areas of concern,” pointing out that “the employment rate for men in Italy is 70.4%, while for women it remains at 52.5%. There is a lack of nurseries, effective family policies, and accessible services. We need commitment to awareness, to educate for equality and respect. Initiatives like these, hosted within a place of learning, hold significant value.”
Conceived by Michela Minesso, a professor of History of Political Institutions at the university, the exhibition opens by highlighting the first female experiences in representative assemblies between 1945 and 1947—the National Consulta and the Constituent Assembly—which featured figures like Angela Maria Guidi and Angelina Merlin. It continues by showcasing parliamentarians such as Elisabetta Conci, a delegate to the Council of Europe; Angiola Minella, Vice President of the Permanent Committee on Hygiene and Health in both the Chamber and Senate; Tina Anselmi, Minister of Labour; and Nilde Iotti, President of the Chamber of Deputies. Other notable figures include Rosa Jervolino, Minister for Social Affairs, and Margherita Boniver, Minister for Italians Abroad. The display concludes with representatives from the subsequent political era, including Emma Bonino, Livia Turco, and Adriana Poli.
The exhibition illustrates the evolution of women’s contributions, initially confined to specific roles and topics, while also demonstrating their ability to unite around crucial issues like citizenship and welfare. The inauguration was also attended by Elena Lattuada, a delegate for Mayor Giuseppe Sala, and regional councilor for family affairs, Elena Lucchini.