Biden Establishes National Monument Honouring Frances Perkins, First Female Cabinet Secretary

President Joe Biden has established a national monument to honour Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a presidential Cabinet. Perkins was a key figure in Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programmes during the Great Depression. Biden described her as "one of America's greatest labour leaders," emphasising her role in ensuring that full-time workers do not live in poverty.

The proclamation for the monument was signed by Biden in Newcastle, Maine, following a speech at the Department of Labor. This move comes as Biden aims to solidify his legacy as an advocate for women's and labour rights, with just over five weeks remaining in his presidency. The Department of Labor building is named after Perkins, who played a crucial role in shaping policies during the 1930s New Deal era.

Frances Perkins' Legacy and Contributions

Perkins was instrumental in creating economic safeguards after the Great Depression, which began in 1929. She holds the record as the longest-serving labour secretary in US history. Her efforts led to the establishment of significant legislation such as the Social Security Act, Fair Labour Standards Act, and National Labor Relations Act, which secured workers' rights to organise and bargain collectively.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland praised Perkins for setting a high standard of excellence. Haaland stated that Perkins accepted her Cabinet position only after President Roosevelt agreed to support her goals for improving working conditions. She worked tirelessly to achieve these goals, leaving a lasting impact on labour rights.

Monument Location and Management

The new monument will be located on Perkins' family homestead in Newcastle, where she was laid to rest after her death in 1965. The National Park Service, part of the Interior Department, will manage this site. This location holds significant historical value due to Perkins' deep family roots there.

Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su announced Biden's induction into the Department's Hall of Honour. Biden expressed that it was an "incredible honour." He has often highlighted his pro-union stance, notably becoming the first sitting president to join striking United Auto Workers members on a picket line last year.

New National Historic Landmarks

On Monday, Haaland also revealed five new national historic landmarks celebrating women's contributions to American history. These include the Charleston Cigar Factory in South Carolina; the Furies Collective and Lucy Diggs Slowe and Mary Burrill House in Washington; Azurest South in Virginia; and Peter Hurd and Henriette Wyeth House and Studios in New Mexico.

These recognitions further underscore the administration's commitment to acknowledging women's roles throughout American history. By establishing these landmarks, the government aims to preserve and highlight significant contributions made by women across various fields and regions.