Biden declares Frances Perkins National Monument in Maine amid public debate

In the United States, President Joe Biden has announced the establishment of the Frances Perkins National Monument in Newcastle, Maine, during a proclamation signing. This event took place on Monday, December 16, 2024, and is intended to commemorate the significant contributions of Frances Perkins, who was the first woman to serve as a Cabinet Secretary in U.S. history as well as the longest-serving Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Her efforts were pivotal in implementing reforms that would shape modern labor policies. Frances Perkins served as Secretary of Labor for a remarkable 12 years, in which time she played an instrumental role in the creation of essential social programs. Notably, she helped establish Social Security, playing a vital role in the recovery efforts during the Great Depression by aiding millions of Americans in securing employment. Additionally, her advocacy for workers' rights led to significant labor reforms, including the right to organize and bargain collectively. Perkins was also a driving force behind establishing the minimum wage, overtime pay, protections against child labor, and unemployment insurance, all of which have had lasting impacts on American labor standards. Moreover, Perkins was involved in creating the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal initiative designed to provide jobs and promote conservation on rural government-owned land. This program not only stimulated employment but also contributed to the preservation of the environment during a time of economic hardship. The announcement of the monument reflects Biden's commitment to recognizing the historical significance of women's contributions to American society and labor rights. The centerpiece of the new Frances Perkins National Monument will be the Perkins Family Home, known as the "Brick House," built in 1837. This site, designated a National Historic Landmark in 2014, encompasses 57 acres along the scenic Damariscotta River and has been preserved as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation for future generations. Visitors to the monument will be able to explore the landscape, garden paths, and wooded trails that were significant to Perkins’s life and work. In addition to the establishment of the Frances Perkins National Monument, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is expected to announce five other monuments aimed at increasing the representation of women's history in historic sites across the United States. This broader initiative aligns with the Biden administration's goals of honoring and enhancing the visibility of women’s contributions to the nation's history, particularly those of women leaders who have paved the way in various fields.