On 26 September 2024, an interview was held with Maria Grazia Speranza, 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘧.𝘴𝘴𝘢 𝘖𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘭’ 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵à 𝘥𝘦𝘨𝘭𝘪 𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪 𝘥𝘪 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘢, during which he presented his book “Women’s surnames” a sneak preview for members of the Community Human Intelligence . In this engaging conversation with Daniela Bandera, 𝘚𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘦 𝘊𝘌𝘖 𝘕𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘴, recounts the journey that led her to write this book, exploring stories of women, of freedom and a compelling and ‘empowering’ personal journey.
In her book *Il cognome delle donne* (Women’s Surnames), Maria Grazia Speranza explores the issue of surname transmission from the perspective of gender equality. She recounts how her daughters chose to use their mother’s surname alongside their father’s, a choice made possible by recent legislative changes in Italy. However, despite legislative progress, gender stereotypes persist to this day.
Maria Grazia Speranza, supported by a number of international researchers, analyses the importance of the surname as a symbol of identity and inequality. She discusses issues such as dual surnames, family support policies and the link between economic independence and freedom. The book serves as an invitation to reflect on how even small choices can contribute to a more equitable society, emphasising the need for comprehensive legislation on women’s rights.
The latter emphasises the importance of having a collective support network based fundamentally on meritocracy, without taking anything else into account.
The road to gender equality is a long one and requires a cultural shift, with greater visibility for women scientists and a collective commitment. Finally, the surname ‘Speranza’ represents a goal to strive for, inviting us to reflect on how to build a future based on true gender equality.
Enjoy the show!
