Today, March 8th, we celebrate not just International Women’s Day and the rights it champions, but we especially reflect on the history that has made this day so significant to us.

In Italy, the first Women’s Day was held on March 12, 1922. On that day, discussions focused on the exploitation of female workers by employers in terms of low wages and long working hours, gender discrimination, and women’s right to vote.

Fifty years later, on March 8th, an important women-led movement demonstrated in Italy for the rights of a gender undervalued by society and its progress, despite women having been the foundational pillar of its very existence.

We cannot ignore that, even after decades of struggle for gender equality, women continue to be paid less than their male counterparts for the same work. This is not only unjust but also detrimental to society as a whole, depriving it of the skills and perspectives that women bring to the workplace.

At Paradisi, equality is not an illusion, a moment, or rhetoric—it is the foundation of our ethical code and the core of our identity as a benefit corporation.

Our company specializes in high-precision mechanics, essentially a large workshop, a place traditionally and erroneously considered unsuited for women. Yet, at Paradisi, 16 women work alongside 31 men. Alongside, not ahead, nor behind. Their numbers continue to grow, maintaining a well-balanced gender distribution within our production system.

Another pressing issue for us is that of working mothers. Too often, women are forced to choose between their careers and motherhood due to a lack of supportive and flexible workplace policies.

It is vital to ensure that working mothers have access to paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and other resources that allow them to balance work and family life healthily and satisfactorily.

Women at Paradisi have the right to fully enjoy their maternity, just as men have the right to enjoy their paternity. For parents, our company contributes to nursery and summer camp fees. Additionally, whenever compatible with internal work organization, we offer flexible working hours. This is our way of supporting life’s beauty while allowing career progression.

Far too often, women face greater risks in the workplace, from sexual discrimination to violence. It is crucial to create safe and inclusive working environments where women can work and thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination.

As we celebrate past achievements and look forward to a more equitable and inclusive future, Paradisi remains at the forefront of the fight for women’s rights.

March 8th is not just a celebration but a moment of reflection and action for everyone who believes in gender equality.

We all share the responsibility of building a world where every woman can reach her potential without limitations or discrimination.