SCNs Ann Whittaker and Anne Marie O’Shea were invited to facilitate a Celebration of International Women’s Day for the Italian Women’s Lodge of Lawrence, Massachusetts.

In Italy, the celebration is called “La Festa Della Donna!”

Sisters Ann and Anne Marie gave an overview of the history of this Global Celebration and focused on the Italian customs. In Italy, the flower symbolizing the day is the mimosa, which grows in hostile environments and is considered strong, resilient and beautiful – attributes of women. Women are gifted with mimosa bouquets on this day. Another fun custom is the baking and eating of the mimosa cake. Seven women celebrated with the Sisters and created and served this delicious dessert.

They prayed a litany of Italian- American heroines who have inspired them, and three women from the Methuen MA YWCA shared their services, especially outreach to women struggling with domestic violence. Let’s continue to support this year’s Global Theme for International Women’s Day – Embrace Equity!