From The Boston Globe · · 1m 50s
Gender War Tearing Italian American Society
Italian American women demand equality at Cranston society as men enforce bylaws.
In brief
Italian American women demand equality at Cranston society as men enforce bylaws. Italian American women at Santa Maria Di Prata Society in Cranston, R.I. seek equal treatment and recognition after men enforce strict bylaws that exclude them from full membership. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Door locked
Italian American women walked into Santa Maria di Prata Society lobby to find door locked.
Gender conflict
Men and women fight over disrespect and women's demand for equality in Italian American society.
Bylaws dispute
Men say only Roman Catholic men can be full members starting at age 17 while women have auxiliary status.
No trespass order
Stephanie Giarrusso, Women's Auxiliary vice president, has no trespass order against her filed by society president.
Women's demands
Women want equal treatment, equal share in fundraising, and recognition for their auxiliary work.
Society history
Santa Maria di Prata Society founded in early 1900s for Italian immigrants to settle in Rhode Island.
Women's role
Women cooked for Labor Day feast until last year when men hired caterer after women refused to help.
Men's stance
Men say women's demands for equality are too extreme and bylaws will not change.
Women's perspective
Women believe society belongs to both men and women and want basic respect as members.
Legal action
Women plan civil rights lawsuit against society for mistreatment and lack of equality.
Historical context
Society has 40 years of history with women contributing to events and feasts.
Family connection
Giarrusso is descended from founder Pasquale Girardi, same as Lori Ann Carlino's grandfather.
What happens next
Women may file civil rights lawsuit for equality and recognition as members.
In short
Italian American women at Santa Maria Di Prata Society in Cranston, R.I. seek equal treatment and recognition after men enforce strict bylaws that exclude them from full membership.
