Records serve as a blueprint for actions – a stark reminder that history is not just a subject we study, but a legacy to carry forward. In Malta’s history, as in other countries, the female voice has been largely underrepresented, but a new project spearheaded by the University of Malta in collaboration with the University of Malta Library Services and the Equity Office is changing this landscape.
The University of Malta has just launched a landmark initiative to address the critical gap in the archival representation of women’s histories in Maltese society – A Women’s Archive; a living record and testament to the rich lives of Maltese women, past and present.
The Women’s Archive aims to preserve, celebrate, and share the diverse experiences, contributions, and legacies of women in Malta, ensuring their stories are recognised for future generations. Her Excellency the President of the Republic of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono expressed how “today’s launch is a testament that there is the opportunity for us to be more open.” In her address, she highlighted that the role of women in society deserves more recognition, and expressed her wish that this archive be strengthened and expanded. Dr Roberta Metsola also delivered a speech in support of the archive.
The opening of the Women’s Archive took place on 7 March 2025 at the Valletta Campus.
During the event, two significant archives pertaining to two different women’s movements in Malta were announced, marking a pivotal moment for the Women’s Archive. Prof. Michael Briguglio generously donated the collection of papers of ‘Muviment għall-Emancipazzjoni tal-Mara’. Ms Lorraine Spiteri, secretary of the women’s group ‘Min-Naħa tan-Nisa’, contributed through the donation of the movement’s papers for research, further enriching the University of Malta Women’s Archive.
During the event, another significant pledge was made. On behalf of the Strickland Foundation, Prof. Clare Vassallo committed to donating the Gerald and Mabel Strickland Papers, emphasizing the importance of preserving the Strickland legacy. As Prof. Vassallo remarked, “Her legacy deserves to be celebrated, ensuring that future generations can recognize her contributions to journalism and public life.”
A further donation to the Women’s Archive was announced through collaboration with the Diocesan Archivist of the Archdiocese of Malta, Rev. Dr Nicholas J. Doublet, who shared the donation of a digital copy of Adelaide Cini’s ‘Positio.’
Addressing the audience at the opening of this event, Ms Nadia Abdilla, the University’s Equity Coordinator, shared how “This initiative mirrors the collaborative effort we deeply believe in. National memory belongs to all of us and today’s historic milestone would not have been possible without the contribution of many.”
To officially launch this Archive, Prof. Carmen Sammut, the University’s Pro-Rector for Student and Staff Affairs and Outreach, underscored the importance of preservation, visibility, and open access in safeguarding the legacies of women throughout history.
“We are launching a two-pronged project; an initiative on two fronts: On one hand, we are focused on finances, but at the same time, with the limited resources we currently have, we know that it is urgent to collect and preserve documents before they are lost.”
“Why us? Because the University is an entity with a public mission. Because the University is a unique centre for teaching, knowledge, and research, making a valuable contribution to Maltese society. Because the University is in an ideal position to serve as a bridge and create synergy with other archives. Because we are motivated by necessity. Because… if not us… who?” stated Prof Sammut.
Mr Kevin J. Ellul, Director of Library Services at the University of Malta, provided insights into the setup of the Women’s Archive within the University’s Library’s Special Collections. He explained how this initiative will allow for the systematic collection and preservation of documents, artifacts, and records that reflect the experiences of women in Malta.
Dr Joan Abela, a lecturer at the University of Malta’s Department of History and Founder of the Notarial Archives Foundation, gave an insightful speech on the significance of collecting and preserving a diverse range of materials, including letters, papers, magazines, meeting minutes, photographs, clothing patterns, and diaries. Dr Simone Azzopardi, also a lecturer at the University of Malta’s Department of History, presented on the topic of “Women’s Emancipation: Social Movements in Post-Independence Malta.”
This archive will be made accessible to the public through digital platforms, physical exhibits, and outreach, ensuring that individuals from all walks of life can engage with its contents. The University of Malta strongly believes that by making such collections accessible, further research can be catalysed, fostering a deeper understanding of women’s struggles, contributions and achievements.
