It’s no coincidence that Frances Perkins is having a moment. This trailblazing woman, who broke barriers and shattered glass ceilings, is finally receiving the recognition and admiration she deserves. Her legacy has inspired generations of women and her impact on American society cannot be overlooked. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is only fitting that we honor the remarkable achievements of Frances Perkins.
Born in Boston in 1880, Frances Perkins was a woman ahead of her time. She attended Mount Holyoke College and later earned a master’s degree in sociology from Columbia University. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles due to her gender, Perkins persevered and became the first female cabinet member in American history. She was appointed as the Secretary of Labor by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933, a position she held for twelve years. During her tenure, she implemented groundbreaking policies and forever changed the landscape of American labor laws.
Perkins’ most notable achievement was the creation of the Social Security Act, which provided a safety net for the elderly and disabled. She also played a key role in establishing the Fair Labor Standards Act, which set a minimum wage and maximum work hours for American workers. These policies not only improved the lives of millions of Americans, but also laid the foundation for future labor laws and social programs. Perkins’ unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others truly embodies the spirit of public service.
Despite her groundbreaking achievements, Frances Perkins’ contributions to American society have often been overlooked. It’s no secret that women, especially women of color, have been historically marginalized and forgotten in the history books. However, as we continue to strive for gender equality and recognition of women’s contributions, the name Frances Perkins is finally taking its rightful place in the spotlight.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Perkins and her legacy. The popular podcast “You Must Remember This” dedicated an entire season to her life and achievements. In 2020, the American Academy of Political and Social Science posthumously awarded her the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Prize, recognizing her significant and lasting contributions to the field of social policy. And now, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, we are seeing an even greater resurgence of interest in Perkins and her impact on American society.
One of the reasons for this newfound recognition is the current political climate. With the rise of the #MeToo movement and the push for gender equality, there is a renewed focus on women’s achievements and the need to uplift and celebrate their voices. Frances Perkins’ story and her trailblazing achievements serve as an inspiration to women everywhere, and her legacy is a reminder that progress is possible, even in the face of adversity.
But it’s not just women who are recognizing and celebrating Frances Perkins. In a time when our country is deeply divided, Perkins’ story is a reminder of the power of bipartisanship and cooperation. Despite being a lifelong Democrat, she was able to work with Republicans to pass groundbreaking legislation that improved the lives of all Americans. Her ability to bridge the political divide and put the well-being of American citizens above party politics is a lesson that we can all learn from.
Frances Perkins’ legacy is also being honored through various initiatives and projects. The Frances Perkins Center is a non-profit organization that works to preserve her legacy and promote the values that she stood for. They offer educational programs and resources to inspire future generations to follow in her footsteps and make a positive impact on society. In addition, the National Park Service has designated her home in New Castle, Maine as a National Historic Landmark, ensuring that her legacy will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
It’s no coincidence that Frances Perkins is having a moment. Her story and her achievements are more relevant and important than ever. As we continue to fight for gender equality and social justice, let us remember and celebrate the remarkable achievements of this pioneering woman. Frances Perkins’ legacy will continue to inspire and empower women for generations to come.
