In simple terms, Frances Perkins speaks about a moment when she felt it was her duty to open doors for women who might otherwise be excluded from opportunities and leadership roles. By taking up an offered position or stepping into a space where women were not typically welcomed, Perkins aimed to set a precedent that would empower future generations of women.
The quote delves deeper into the concept of breaking barriers and creating pathways for others. Perkins recognized her actions as more than just personal ambition; they were about establishing rights and privileges for all women who might follow in her footsteps. This sense of duty involves not only stepping forward but also ensuring that those steps become a norm rather than an exception, thus paving the way for equality and representation in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Frances Perkins was a pioneering American labor leader and politician who served as the U.S. Secretary of Labor from 1943 to 1945, making her the first woman appointed to a cabinet-level position in the United States government. She played a crucial role in the development of New Deal legislation during President Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration, particularly in the areas of labor laws and social security reforms. Her efforts significantly improved working conditions for millions of Americans and laid the groundwork for many current labor standards and social welfare policies.
