On March 25, 1911, Frances Perkins was visiting with a friend who lived near Washington Square in New York City when they heard fire engines and people screaming.
Today’s letter gives me such pause on a personal, familiar yet arm’s length level. My grandmother and all of her sisters were expected to leave school at pre-teen age to go to work in the factories as seamstresses (NY Metro area) at least until they could maneuver into a coveted job at the phone co. as an operator. Her sister lost her husband when her daughter was 2 years old (circa 1935) and worked to support them in the pajama/lingerie factory. Every Xmas Eve we spent together and were gifted w/new PJs or nightgown. I started noticing a distinctive label “ILGWU”— it looked kind of funny to a kid so I asked my great aunt about it—I was around the same age she would’ve had to stop school to work. She explained it was her “union”—the “International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union” and I sensed her passion and dedication to whatever that meant as well as I could comprehend it. Each year I would open the gift and say, “Oh, does it have your label?” and the convo would start again. Remem being mesmerized that these PJs came from the place where she made these things. So, finally I chose it as topic of a “book report” in grade school noting how lucky I was to get to just write about it at the same age she had to quit school to work in the factory and it was far from something to glamorize. These girls—and I mean girls not yet women—really lived/struggled this era of Dr. Heather’s letter today. My grandmother parlayed her skill into her own biz; my Mom worked in it sewing her way thru college to become a teacher—I suppose it was that or a nurse or secretary in the 40s/early 50s although a couple of her friends became CPAs in that era. I was fortunate enough to earn one of those “yuppie” MBAs two generations later. Today’s post brought this context all back with familiarity b/c as a child spent so much time with these women —only wish I could’ve comprehended more fully back then what I can see more clearly through today’s lens as an adult. And now, unbelievably, the struggle continues to hold onto what was so hard won > 80 years ago. Happy Labor Day~
Thank you so much Lauren for your memories! I am from the same general area (metro NY) and very similar situations, and I myself worked and lived in the Garment District for a number of years, although not as a maker (I worked for one of the big textile manufacturers as an office worker). The ILGWU, at the start of my life in the GD, was still a powerful presence, with the international headquarters/union hall a place of importance in the lives and environment of the district. Its life--and the world it made--was ending, however, because of Reagan's union busting and meshuga economic policies, which made it possible for companies such as the one I worked for to off-shore their textile manufactures (leaving much of the Carolinas in a shambles) and to destroy the ILGWU. "Look for the Union Label" (when you are buying a coat, dress, or gloves) is a jingle I still hear in my mind's ear because it really meant something in my youth. Alas, those labels no longer exist.
My longterm memory kicked in: coat, dress, or BLOUSE (not gloves). The ILGWU was also instrumental in the founding of the Fashion Institute of Technology (which was right across the street from the union headquarters in my day). So many people benefited from the activism of that union.
Thanks Linda for sharing your imprint w/in that industry —it seems at least some offshoring to countries where people are actually “laborers of the state” so like we’ve outsourced the struggle. Love the memory jog re that jingle! I remember a tv or radio ad like a chorus of women’s’ voices
Such a rich story. So full. Thank you, Lauren, for sharing it through your lens of today. Great iconic women in your family. We can give those shapes to children today.
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing your family's experiences. You've reminded me of a neighbor from my childhood, Jenny Charters, who worked for the ILGWU in San Francisco, not that any of us kids understood what it meant at the time. I wish she was still around so we could say thank you.
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing your own related history in such intimate detail. Very touching and thought-provoking; just beautiful. I am thinking of Labor Day very differently now, thanks to you.
Hi Lauren, Your post awakened a host of memories about my grandmother who was an immigrant to the USA (NYC) in the early 1900's. Her husband died after the stock market crash and she returned to being a milliner, a hatmaker, working in a factory. I remember her showing us the ILGWU labels in clothing. She survived and managed to raise her family because of having a job with protections. She was a bitter, old woman when I knew her, but your comments shed light on what made her existence (and thus my father's) possible. They were not easy times, but at least there was the possibility for improvement. We need that vision for the possibility of a better life for our younger population today. Interesting conversation, as always!
It’s kind of good for the soul to tie the present to these shared histories and History—who knew that little label would represent so much—I hope it’s in the Smithsonian!
Thanks, indeed, Lauren, for sharing this personal, poignant history. These women in your family no doubt enriched you and beyond, more indelible than the ILGWU labels!
Love your story, the meaning of the union label, your writing about it for school, and how all that lifted you and your family members to a better future.
After he graduated from college, my father, who later became an academic, spent two years working in a textile firm in NYC that he tried to organize. There was too much turnover, alas.
Your story gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of my father's efforts to unionize the NYC textile firm where he worked after graduating college and before getting drafted. He never said much about it, and I never asked. So again, thank you.
Good morning everybody, and Happy Labor Day from here in Maine where the Bangor Daily news recently ran this piece about Secretary Perkins AND our beloved HCR. (I have shortened it for brevity). Please pay particular attention to the third paragraph:
“NEWCASTLE — The Frances Perkins Center will celebrate the life and work of Frances Perkins with a virtual Garden Party and awards ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 15.
This year’s annual Garden Party and awards ceremony celebrates the Center’s receiving a prestigious $500,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Save America’s Treasures grant program to preserve and restore the Frances Perkins Homestead National Historic Landmark, and a $100,000 appropriation from the State of Maine, “An Act To Conserve the Frances Perkins Homestead National Historic Landmark,” to ensure the public has safe and accessible access to the Frances Perkins Homestead.
Honored at this year’s event will be historian Dr. Heather Cox Richardson, who will receive the Center’s Intelligence and Courage Award, and social activist Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez, who will receive the Open Door Award.
Donations from the event will support the Center’s vision to protect Frances Perkins’ beloved home and transform it into a national center for learning and discourse that addresses 21st century economic and social issues.”
Amen, amen, amen to these two awards.
My heart overflows with quiet, deep respect, pride and gratitude for the work and lives of all three women and I am resolved to learn more about Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez and what she is doing.
My wife and I will be making a gift to the Perkins Center in honor of Heather who, like Secretary Perkins and, I’m certain, Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez, is a true National Treasure. Their goal, as stated above, could not be more worthy.
Maine is blessed in so many ways, this among them.
“Juana first came to Maine 20 years ago to participate in Maine’s wild blueberry harvest. Her active participation over the years and her commitment to sharing her knowledge and experience with other parents led her to become an AmeriCorps Member with Mano en Mano in 2014. Through this position, Juana was involved in a range of activities such as creating short non-fiction informational videos for other parents, helping to coordinate bi-lingual learning activities for families, and co-presenting about her experiences at national and regional events. Juana was hired as a full-time member of the team in 2016, and promoted to Program Director in 2019. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in education from the University of Maine at Machias and General Elementary (K-8) Teacher Certification from the Maine Department of Education. In 2015, Juana received national recognition as migrant parent of the year from the National Association of State Directors of Migrant Education. Juana is a member of the Boards of Directors of the Women’s Health Resource Library and the Friends of the Milbridge Public Library.”https://www.manomaine.org/staff
This IS the right Juana Rodriguez Vazquez! And as a retired librarian my favorite thing is that, with all her other accomplishments, she’s also a member of the Boards of Directors of the Women’s Health Resource Library and the Friends of the Milbridge Public Library. 🥰
Ralston, many of us were able to attend the party “virtually”. It was outstanding. There was a living room chat with Dr. Richardson that was so engaging. She is so dynamic in her representation and depiction of history and people.
Thank you for sharing this link...I enjoyed watching it. It was interesting how HCR started her letters... info I didn't know. Did she start in September of 2019? I would like to see that first letter.
Here is a FB post of Dr. HCR’s from 1/2017 before the letters started where she begins by saying, “I don’t like to talk about politics on FB.” And now here we are enriched every night:) That day I started following her for sanity—thought might enjoy the look back given your comment— https://www.facebook.com/100005597623240/posts/654265404770041/?d=n
I also gave a gift to the Perkins Center and made it in honor of the honoree, HCR. Today's letter shows the importance of drawing anew the work, influence and vision of women whom mainstream history so often erases and makes invisible.
Ashley where are you in TN? I have two grand daughters at UT in Knoxville . Haven’t visited yet due to Covid . We are northeast families so new territory
I’ve come to rely on Dr. Heather’s sub stack letters to get a clear and concise understanding on issues. And of course her historical pieces, such as this one, make for a great read.
Quite often, it's the bad things that galvanize us to achieve good things. I hate saying this, but it took Donald Trump for me to realize people I had allowed myself to call "the enemy" over the past 30 years weren't - that all of us who believe in democracy, whatever our policy differences, are part of the same party when an existential crisis hits (we can go back to arguing policy differences later). And this week's events in Texas have, I believe, done to the Republicans who are the dog that caught the car what bombing Pearl Harbor did to the Japanese - as Admiral Yamamoto allegedly said upon being informed of the success of the attack, "I fear we have awakened a sleeping giant, and filled him with a terrible purpose."
To your last sentence I can only say Amen, Amen, Amen!! Now it’s really and truly up to each of us NOT to just content ourselves with just being in agreement with each other, but actually DOING things to accomplish what we know must be done. It’s going to be very, very interesting to witness the Giant awakening and I’m going to do what I can to that end. As I write this I cannot help but think of John Lewis and his exhortation of “good trouble.” I want to be at least one grain of sand in the Giant’s sheets. Enough sand and the Good Giant has to awake…..
When you go to protest, make sure you write her name and number on two places on your body (arm and belly are my choices) and let the people around you know to call if you get hauled off. Try and travel with a friend; if you're alone, make a new friend.
I have just pulled out my feminist protest shirt. I will be a 67 year old marching in a shirt that says "This is what a feminist looks like." I also found my first edition copy of "Our Bodies, Our Selves" that I bought during my first in college. It was written before the passing of Roe. I looked through the section on abortion and was saddened that we could return to that time unless we make our feelings known.
Let’s make sure the Universe does not just hear us “hoping”. Let’s believe and act. I think TC describes it perfectly. Let’s not let the awakening giant go back to sleep right away. I’m going to feed the giant some Wheaties for breakfast!
It has been a longer morning than the hours would tell. I have been working in workers' hell because that's where they are. By stopping to read your words, the eye of the needle appeared. I didn't stop to say that I've grown fond of you, but it's true.
Fern, it sounds like you work a lot of hours. You said further above that you had worked through the night. I'm guessing you work in some essential field, perhaps healthcare?
Thank you for your concern, Elizabeth. When I saw the Letter this morning, I knew how the Fire and the work done by Al Smith Perkins FDR and others on behalf of the people changed the country I though to indicate the reverse of that today. I have been aware of the seriousness of our Management v. Labor divide and what it has been doing to labor for decades. With just a few hours, I put my comment together from scratch. That was the reason for the all night gig. Sometimes when I read a letter its subject matter inspires me to research, and my comments can rarely be done 1,2,3.
Thank you for your contributions. I read with recognition your
exchange with others on whether France is relevant to the labor discussion. Having an outspoken and frank turn of mind has many benefits but comes with risks as well. I have been on what I call my "remedial lessons in diplomacy" program my whole adult life. I am very much still learning which thoughts to share and how, to strike the right balance between my own freedom of speech and not making others feel insulted or dismissed. One example: Decades ago, I mostly enjoyed a small, free, local concert, with one exception. On the way out, I was surprised to see a former colleague. Thinking to commiserate, I said something like "Nice concert, but wow, that execrable trumpet player!" She looked at me gravely for a moment, then said with a slight twinkle, "That trumpet player is my boyfriend."
Elizabeth, I appreciate your personal outreach to me. I wrote a long response for my own benefit - describing the exchanges, my feelings about what was going on and considering what options may be available. This is to share a bit of it with you.
The differences which I engendered, and your kind suggestion that I might find ways to deal better laid my challenges on the table. This dustup was uncomfortable for me and still is. It also was a distraction on the forum, for which I am deeply sorry. I've grown attached the group and learned from Heather's work. I am not sure yet about the remedy, but it will be found soon.
Another example perhaps would be that one of Ike Eisenhower’s first jobs was to patrol Hoovervilles during the Depression, so he saw the real effect of the oligarchy’s economy at ground level.
Sad that the current "Hoovervilles" are alive & well in far too many of our cities right now - not hidden away but right out on a lot of streets & alleys.
I realize there are many instances of drugs, etc., but also many families that have lost their homes, jobs, whole way of life. To have to compact everything you own into a tent - if you have a tent, has to be over-whelming. The lack of safe, low-cost housing in this country & I imagine, others, sure doesnt say much for the care & empathy for others, does it?
I agree, TC. I'm still frightened and disheartened, but hoping that the total horror in Texas will finally wake all but the worst of us to the fact that this wanton disdain for everyone but those who crave power is a threat to all of us. If the lying, cheating, manipulation, and cruelty aren't stopped, our democracy is finished.
"Francis Perkins was as woke as any social justice warrior. Her story shows us a way to be woke that we need to remember if we hope to do half as much for social justice as her generation achieved." George Packer, "Last Best Hope."
My late husband’s grandmother worked at the Triangle. On the morning of the fire she felt ill and made the hard decision to stay home. She was a survivor because she didn’t go to work that day! My great-aunt Rose worked in a factory that made men’s shirts. She was very active in the Amalgamated Clothing Workers Union of America. She never married and worked to support herself until she could retire. She was an important part of my life.
From a tragedy, a woman rose to make history! Frances Perkins is a prime example of a woman who validates Ruth Bader Ginsburg's words: "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made." Thank you, dear Prof. HCR, for this exquisite rendition of her determination and her life's work.
We haven't had a break in five years or two, you know exactly what I mean, even so the Letter this morning took us to one of the country's worst catastrophes, The Triangle Fire in 1911. This awful tragedy led to better things, thanks to Al Smith, the Democratic majority leader in the New York legislature, who later became the four term governor of New York State (and, of course, there were more). The other bright light turning tragedy into social good was Francis Perkins. Subscribers followed this determined, capable and deeply social minded, public servant from head of the New York office of the National Consumers League; 'member of the New York State Industrial Commission to help weed out the corruption that was weakening the new laws'; overseeing the state’s labor department to becoming the country's Labor Department Secretary under president Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and let's not forget FDR.
Francis Perkins stipulated that she would agree to become the Labor Secretary only f the president would back her goals: 'unemployment insurance; health insurance; old-age insurance, a 40-hour work week; a minimum wage; and abolition of child labor.' (The Letter) The president asked if she thought it could be done, and she promised to try.
'Once in office, Perkins was a driving force behind the administration’s massive investment in public works projects to get people back to work. She urged the government to spend $3.3 billion on schools, roads, housing, and post offices. Those projects employed more than a million people in 1934.'
'In 1935, FDR signed the Social Security Act, providing ordinary Americans with unemployment insurance; aid to homeless, dependent, and neglected children; funds to promote maternal and child welfare; and public health services.'
'In 1938, Congress passed the Fair Labor Standards Act, which established a minimum wage and maximum hours. It banned child labor.' (The Letter)
I don't know about you, but I was smiling at the end of the letter, while reading, 'Happy Labor's Day, everyone'. Francis had taken us on a wonderful ride. She and Heather gave us a break that we were looking for. But the story doesn't end there. Labor in the United States today is not as it was when Francis Perkins was finished as Labor Secretary or for years after that.
Time did not permit a cogent summary of the situation that American workers find themselves in today. The differences for labor between the 1950s and '60s even the '70s and now have not been provided either. What you do have are excerpts from articles and links to them that present a inkling of what's going on . As you read you'll think of a lots of important issues that are missing. That's all right, you can add them in. Labor is a big story and today, it's full of woe These excerpts will provide a sense of how far down we have gone.
'The U.S. places last relative to its national policies around healthcare, unemployment, retirement, parental leave, and paid vacation and sick days, according to Zenefits, a human resources firm.'
'The Czech Republic, Latvia, South Korea and Mexico joined the U.S. among the five least-generous countries. Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland were the top nations for worker benefits.'
'The U.S., for example, is the only advanced nation that doesn’t guarantee paid vacation time to workers, according to the Center for Economic and Policy Research. By comparison, Europeans get at least 20 days of legally mandated vacation days, and some countries require at least 30.'
'It’s also the only industrialized nation that doesn’t offer universal healthcare for its citizens. The U.S. spends more on healthcare than other high-income countries relative to the size of its economy. However, it also has the highest number of hospitalizations from preventable causes and the highest rate of avoidable deaths relative to other wealthy nations, according to the Commonwealth Fund.' (CNBC) Link below:
'Americans work more hours than their counterparts in peer nations, including France and Germany, and many work more than fifty hours a week. Real wages declined for the rank and file in the nineteen-seventies, as did the percentage of Americans who belong to unions, which may be a related development. One can argue that these post-industrial developments mark a return to a pre-industrial order. The gig economy is a form of vassalage. And even workers who don’t work for gig companies like Uber or TaskRabbit now work like gig workers. Most jobs created between 2005 and 2015 were temporary jobs. Four in five hourly retail workers in the United States have no reliable schedule from one week to another. Instead, their schedules are often set by algorithms that aim to maximize profits for investors by reducing breaks and pauses in service—the labor equivalent of the just-in-time manufacturing system that was developed in the nineteen-seventies in Japan, a country that coined a word for “death by overwork” but whose average employee today works fewer hours than his American counterpart. As the sociologist Jamie K. McCallum reports in “Worked Over: How Round-the-Clock Work Is Killing the American Dream” (Basic), Americans have fewer paid holidays than workers in other countries, and the United States is all but alone in having no guaranteed maternity leave and no legal right to sick leave or vacation time. Meanwhile, we’re told to love work, and to find meaning in it, as if work were a family, or a religion, or a body of knowledge' (New Yorker).
'Women continue to weather the worst of this coronavirus-induced economic storm, but out in the horizon, another disturbance is forming.'
'Public sector jobs are expected to take a greater hit as plummeting tax revenues across the country slash local and state government budgets, setting off layoffs and furloughs. When the job losses come, it’ll be women who will be most at risk'.
'Nearly 60% of public sector employees are women, many of them women of color — the same demographic groups that already experienced the highest rates of unemployment when COVID-19 ripped through the job market. (Unemployment for Latinas peaked at 20.2% this year, and unemployment for Black women hit 16.5%). The one-two punch of the depletion of child care options and the closure of service sector businesses, jobs dominated by women, set off the nation’s first female recession. About 54% of all the jobs lost since the pandemic began were held by women.' (USA)
' Americans’ work conditions are terrible. No wonder many don’t want to go back.
In the restaurant and hospitality industry, many workers still receive the tipped federal minimum wage of $2.13 an hour. The restaurant industry accounts for more sexual harassment claims than any other sector, with incidents citing customers and co-workers. In recent years, top chefs including Momofuku’s David Chang were revealed to rage at workers on the job. “People are forgetting that restaurant workers have actually experienced decades of abuse and trauma. The pandemic is just the final straw,”Crystal Maher, a restaurant worker in Austin, recently told The Post.'
'But white-collar work wasn’t in a healthy state either. Even before covid-19, the pressure to work long hours was immense, with many survey respondents admitting to checking emails after hours and during vacation.'
Some worried Americans have considered the country's enormous wealth gap as a major reason for the social animosity and polarization. Have we so thought enough about the lives of America's workers and their much diminished communities -- how that, too, is part of their anti-social behavior. Why doesn't the meanness of their lives, perhaps, even more than the lies and propaganda ratify their sense of grievance? The lies and the propaganda may help fuel and channel it, but the workers daily existence is the starting point. Have the American workers been screwed? There is also a sub-group - malcontents - mini Trumps - they've always been around - 5% - 10%, perhaps, the 'experts' know. Is there too much concentration on Trump and his enablers, when more time might is need in knowing the base. What percent is salvageable and what changes in labor and the safety net need to be done Time for Francis Perkins, several of them to put the American workers back together again.
“Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland”… most generous towards workers.
You know, remarkable how often one sees those countries linked with abundance and generosity of spirit and community. Those guidelines run through the infrastructure of common good such as education and healthcare in those countries.
Our country must repair our spirit before we can fix anything. Personally, I’m up for the challenge. It involves all of us, not just an executive or a legislator or robed jurist.
Alas, I'm sad to say, even within this forum, competition and garrulousness rear their ugly heads causing a distinct lack of generosity of spirit and community. And you're right, repair is necessary - it must begin in each individual's heart and radiate out.
I see that too and suppose that community meetings often include a little competition and garrulousness. That we’re coalescing as a community is bringing me hope - an essential nutrient for advocacy. For that, thank you Heather and my fellow town-folk!
A brilliant and comprehensive post. Thank you. We are a feudal society that worships wealth and we are impressed by IPO billionaires - but don't honor the vast majority that hold us together with daily attention to the details of life that we take for granted.
@Bill Alstron, we are indeed a feudal society, as you point out and many other comments here illustrate. As a child, I read a fairy tale about a cruel queen who confiscated all the milk in her realm for baths to soften her skin, and was oblivious to all the children who had no milk. How is this morality tale any different from, for example, Jeff Bezos spending billions gained from exploiting his millions of warehouse workers, on his private space program, and on landing from his first joyride to space, with stupefying arrogance and cluelessness, thanking his workers because (paraphrase) "you guys made all this possible."
I suspect the fairy tale you are referring to may have been inspired by Countess Elizabeth Bartory who bathed in the blood of maidens to maintain her youth. I could be wrong.
Probably. The fairy tale no doubt softened the story so that children could learn its moral without being brutally traumatized. The real story of that countess is one I still cannot dwell on without risking nightmares.
Thank you, Bill. A less rushed job on my part would tell a more frightening and tragic story. You are so right to label this a 'feudal' society. The people are being duped. They are crazy angry. We deserve some of it, but the architects and profiteers are whistling Dixie.
We are capable of so much more but too many lack the aspiration, energy, or determination to do or be better. We should be ashamed of our lethargy, but are entirely too self-absorbed. Thank you, Fern, for your reminder and plea to do better.
As long as you don't descend to the level of France where the "disincentive to work" and the "unwillingness" to take responsibility for your life has grown massively over the period since Reagan arrived in the White House when the French went in the opposite direction. Mistakes made were and are legion, taxes on labour for social security on the employer and the employee effectively only leave half....and that before tax....to the worker and encourage massive outsourcing to third-world " Dante-esque shirt makers". The french average working year is the shortest in Europe but their hourly productivity is amongst the highest....cheap automation replaces expensive jobs. Privat sector labour's participation in Unions is much less than in the US and the Unions, funded mostly by the central government have become concentrated in the public services and operate strictly as militant political agents. A happy medium is necessary if the country is to maintain its wealth production machine and the benefits thus generated are equitably shared.
Stuart, the story here is much worse than I had the time to put together. The seriousness of this country's bind provides poor odds. And Stuart, I'm not interested in France, at this time. In addition, however it is off course there is no, no chance of this country slipping in that direction. To be even more direct, France is irrelevant to our abyss.
I am interested in France; I am interested in the world. There are many different approaches to these problems throughout the world, and our idea of American exceptionalism gets in the way of our learning from other nations. Both what to do, and what to avoid.
I will never forget a conversation I had with my then congressional rep, a neighbor. We were discussing a minor surgery I had in Italy. His wife was shocked that I trusted Italian doctors enough to have a procedure done there. He could not understand how the procedure was done at no cost to me. The ignorance was profound, and this person was making decisions about our national health care.
The world is so interconnected. We ignore other nations at our peril, and theirs.
I have been up through the night working, so have no interest in adding to our difference. Except for this, I am deleting my responses to you and hope that we move on. Thank you.
Kathy, I appreciate your apology and accept it. I credit your passion and innocence for a rush to judgement.
In replying to you now, I also seek a wider audience of subscribers as I believe there was a misguided piling up by some subscribers. In fact, this part of my response is an appropriate comment to subscribers, so I shall post again it that way as well.
In two complaints, which have since been deleted, it was claimed that I brought up France in a 'missive', so there was no reason for me to turn away Stuart's comment about France's labor economy. As clearly indicated in my comment, France and Germany were mentioned in an excerpt from an article in the New Yorker. The reference was duly cited in my comment. In the excerpt, the writer pointed out that the working hours of Americans were much longer as compared to other countries, yet this complaint against me was brought up twice. Subscribers who liked/agreed with the complaint, clearly, had not referred to my comment.
Another roundly seconded attack was that I was uninterested in other countries and what can be learned from them. This was an unfounded and, to me, an offensive argument. It was based on my belief that consideration of France's labor problems, a country turned in the opposite direction of America's system, more controlled by business/corporate interests since the Reagan years, was not pertinent to the issues revolving around the effects our system has had on working Americans. We are at a very pivotal and dangerous point in the country. Much been said and written negatively about the 'ignorance' and 'rage' of Trump's base calling them pawns of Trump's and of the Republican Party. It was easy for those autocratic business forces to use and manipulate the working class, whose misery they and a few bigtime Democrats are responsible for.
How much interest do comfortable Americans and the rest of us have on knowing why so many democrat leaning workers turned to Trump and became part of his base? They are not the whole of the base but a big part of it. The goal of my comment was to cast a look at what has been happening to working Americans in addition to the effects of technology. What are the results of our system favoring Big Business and Corporate interests, in cahoots with the Republican Party, over the working people of America? In attempt to raise this side of the equation, I thought Stuart's comments about France's labor problem from his perspective a distraction. When he persisted a second time, I admit that I lost patience. Here, Kathy, I believe you were correct in suggesting to just 'walk on by'.
The grand work of Francis Perkins, FDR, the unions and many, many others on behalf of the American people have been greatly diminished and some way entirely lost. Let us not be distracted from knowing who and what has caused this. We are one with the working people of America. The people need to show each other how this is true.
From experience, Fern, i would like to say the the French would be most upset at being labelled "irrelevant" in anything given their exaggerated idea of their own importance but i agree with you in this. It just provides a cautionary tale if you don't have a good idea of the long term consequences of your acts.
In December, 1828, the first ever labor strike in the United States took place in the Cocheco Mills in Dover, NH (my home town). The "Mill Girl Strike" involved about 600 cotton weavers (all female). New owners had bought the mill and lowered the women's wages but not the men's or management's (sound familiar?). The strikers wanted an end to these "Tariff Wages", an end to the practice of individuals in the company enriching themselves through "fines" (the women made 42 cents a day - the previous owners paid 47, and could be fined 12 1/2 cents if late for work, etc, money they believed was sometimes being pocked by supervisors, and the recognition that the mill owners were enriching themselves on the backs of those "least able to afford it" All very familiar. In the end, the workers had to give in when the company began hiring other workers (mainly from Quebec, I believe). I do not do justice to this story or to the women who participated in it. They did set the pattern for future strikes in America and effective labor activism in general. We owe them all a tremendous debt. Happy Labor day everyone! - I'm off to work now.
How convenient is it not that we now can outsource shirt production out of sight, with the same dangerous production facilities with low wages, and still be able to buy the shirts we want even with our low or moderate incomes. - Documentary films have an important role to be aware of: things far apart, that do belong together, must be shown together for the world to heal.
The solution is to keep manufacturing here in the US; to pay a living wage to the workers, and to charge a bit more for the product, and to make less of an obscene profit, but a more modest one.
A redirection of the "worship of wealth" to a respect for labor of all kinds.
To realize that the person processing our trash and recycling is as essential as anyone else.
To realize that just because we have the digital tools, we don't have to demand that parents carry them at all times - ready to work at every "notification".
To actually care about the working conditions of other humans across the globe requires pulling ourselves out of our ignominious self inflicted ignorance. It might mean challenging the cheap luxury of our phone or big TV. It might mean sacrifice. Good luck with that.
It could start in churches. But apparently, they are too busy fighting culture wars.
As I mentioned: global awareness must catch up with global trade. Maybe also redefining fascism as gaining at the cost of others; making it more difficult to identify 'fascists' as 'the others'.
Really pleased to see the responses here. I saw the documentary "China Blue" a while ago, about a girl who makes denim jeans in a factory in China. Terrible, terrible working conditions. Yet I doubt Americans would be willing to pay more for US-made goods. Sadly, most of us don't consider an "other" to be quite as worthy as we are.
This story never fails to amaze me. It reminds us that there was a time when things had gone too far and decent people said enough and fixed it for a little while, at least.
Isn’t it sad that we keep fighting the same battles over and over for decent treatment of others? I guess we do because greed never dies; its roots grow deep.
I have been having photos of child laborers show up on my Facebook feed the past few days. The 6 year old coal miner smoking a pipe, and three 10 year old girls in a factory. Nary a peep from the Republiqan folks. Maybe they've all blocked me.
Until I started following your letters I had but a scant knowledge of Frances Perkins' achievements. Your letter this Labor Day (and your other writings) paints a portrait of an amazing American.
When the Triangle Shirt Factory burned, women could not yet vote. Yet that did not deter her from becoming a powerful force that changed the course of the labor movement and reshaped the American economy for almost a century now. I believe you said that she stayed as a cabinet member for FDR through his entire presidency. What she accomplished is amazing!
Ironic isn't it, that she called out Hoover for his plan to let the the Depression "burn itself out". Has anything really changed? That is exactly how the GOP approached our current crisis. And now we have 650,000 dead as a testimonial to their laissez faire approach to it (and damned near everything else that doesn't involve women's rights).
So happy Labor Day Dr. HCR, and a happy Labor Day to the American worker!
Happy Labor Day, and thank you for the sharing the Triangle Shirt Factory tragedy of workers being locked in - afraid they might steal a BLOUSE. I’m taken back to September 1991 in Hamlet, NC where 25 workers died behind locked doors when a fire broke out at the Imperial Foods factory. Locked because the owners thought a worker might steal a CHICKEN. We must continue the fight for worker’s rights and women’s rights.
Thank you, Dr. Richardson. I so appreciate your history knowledge. Frances Perkins, was a true champion for the people. Contrast her to the vile hooligans (the list is long) who destroy and disrupt the American Dream for ordinary people. President Biden is on track to be the FDR of the 21st century, but he faces some unprecedented obstacles.
I often think that of Biden too. FDR faced unprecedented obstacles as well. Things our nation had never dealt with then, as we have never seen these problems either. So it gives me hope that Biden can be just that, the FDR of our times. If we could just mobilize the people! I just have hope again!
Robert, it is so obvious that you admire Dr. Heather Cox Richardson's work and abilities, so it would be wonderful if you would address her by the appropriate titles which she so deserves: Dr. or Prof. She has earned a Ph.D., hence Dr.; and she teaches in one of the most reputable colleges in the US, hence Professor. Ms. doesn't quite do justice to her stature in life, nor to her intelligence, knowledge, and creativity. You wouldn't diminish a male professor to Mr.,would you? Many thanks for reconsidering her title.
If you were aware of conventions at universities like Boston College (which are not only simply "reputable" but elite), which apparently you are not, you would understand that, in the current context (see more on context below), which includes Boston College, I am being fully respectful of the appropriate conventions, and, per force, of Ms. Richardson. And you would not rebuke me, albeit mildly, more or less, as you have. Thus, at such universities, where all faculty members, even junior faculty members, in fields in which the terminal degree is a PhD. (e.g. all humanities and social science fields) are routinely referred to as Mr. or Ms. as well as Professor, but rarely, if ever, "Dr." This is mostly because at such universities, virtually all such faculty members have PhD degrees;; the degree therefore does not distinguish them from their colleagues, so its utility is marginal. In contrast, on high school faculties, on which a PhD degree is a rarity, the holders of same are routinely referred to as "Dr.," the title being mark of distinction on that faculty, whereas it would not be at Boston College.
It follows, in answer to your query, that if today's letter were written by a man similarly situated to Ms. Richardson (i.e. a tenured professor at an elite university holding a PhD), I absolutely would refer to him as "Mr._____" No disrespect would be intended.
It all depends on context. For example, Rachel Maddow, whom I am quite sure you watch and admire, as do I, holds a PhD from Oxford. But I have never heard any guest on her show e refer to her as "Dr. Maddow." Indeed, I don't think I have ever heard anyone refer to her "Ms. Maddow," though it is possible some guests have. She is virtually always referred to as "Rachel."
Which brings us to the context here--the Letters, the ensuing comments and the standards you are applying in rebuking me for: using the reference "Ms. Richardson"; and, you also suggest, bringing to this comment section sexist attitudes and bias-- thus your unwarranted assertion that I would never employ the same reference with respect to a similarly situated male professor with a PhD. The point is that the comments here are (happily) informal and conversational, rather like the exchanges on Rachel Maddow's show. Consistently, participants refer to Ms. Richardson variously, whatever they feel comfortable with in this informal forum, so sometimes by "Dr." and "Professor " but also by "Ms. Richardson," "HCR," and, significantly, "Heather," a more familiar reference than "Ms. Richardson," and therefore in some contexts though not this one, a disrespectful one . Indeed, in this very thread, just a few comments below yours (and posted an hour before yours, so you may well have seen it), Ms. Linda Bailey thanks "Heather," not even "Ms. Richardson," much less Dr. or Prof. Richardson. No rebuke of Ms. Bailey from you that I see. To be sure, you may not have seen her post, but surely, in your review of the comments in ordinary course, you have seen references to "Heather"; they are common enough. Have you ever once rebuked the writers, some of them women, like Ms. Bailey, for this usage? If no, how do you square your rebuke here, with your failure to rebuke these other writers?
Nothing herein is meant to suggest that your post is anything less than well meaning and well intended ; you are coming to Ms. Richardson's defense, because you think, wrongly, that I have shown her insufficient respect.. Nor do I suggest that you are bound to, or should use the reference "Ms. Richardson," much less "Heather," or that your referring to her as "Dr. Richardson" or "Prof. Richardson" is inappropriate (for __you__). For if you feel more comfortable using those references, and use them to signify your respect for Ms. Richardson, you absolutely should continue to employ them, not that you need my approval or anyone's for that matter, to do so. At the same time, you should not go about issuing uninformed rebukes like the one to me for using the reference "Ms. Richardson," and then one, equally uninformed, casting doubts about my respect for women generally and my commitment to equal rights for them.
Allow me to debunk one point. People use the familiar “Heather”, because that is her given name and something she has encouraged people to use. Especially when they address her directly in a comment as Linda has done. Your comment referred to Professor Richardson in the third person. In addition, I have not ever seen an instance that the title “Ms” was used to address the author. I noticed it right away in your comment, did not feel it took away from the compliment, yet still felt it correct of a subscriber to make the point of title. It’s been done before on this forum.
Your response is quite long on defense and rather haughty in my opinion. We are not at Boston U where, according to you, the title of “Dr” is so common that it doesn’t command the level of respect that most people here have for that title. Especially when addressing the author of LFAA.
The subscriber that made a point to you is a very informed professor that is most likely very aware of conventions at an elite institution.
I am not an academic and I am certainly not familiar with the nuances of nomenclature in universities, but increasingly I find that people now use first names, even with relative strangers. I see no harm in that. Even lawyers, at each others' throats occasionally, still largely communicate with first names. Perhaps Heather (if I may be so bold) you would like to adjudicate and say what is or is not acceptable when we refer to you in glowing terms? Now, as Christine (FL) has said, let's chill. I have to get on with the day job!
I’ve addressed this to Robert Lehrer previously and having gotten the same exact response, I now have more questions than answers. I wonder if it is possible that there is a cultural connotation to “Ms.” that feels demeaning to some of us? When it’s use comes from a person firmly entrenched in the patriarchy, whether they want to own it or not, to address a wise woman, could it feel especially cutting? At a time when the patriarchy is gaining ground in leaps and bounds is it surprising we are all a little sensitive to perceived slights? And if we are repeatedly questioned about our choice of words, are their some among us who might adjust or at least be more curious than mansplaining?
Not more questions than answers, but an equal number of questions and answers, since all of your questions are rhetorical, so that not only is no answer required or expected, but the answers (yours) are assumed, including ones that demean the intended fielder of the question. Still, your questions are good ones, and call my attention to subtleties of language that I had not fully considered or considered at all. And for that I thank you, the thank you being coupled with a promise to think about the questions you raise and the answers you offer. I would be inclined to extend you and your post a more fulsome compliment, but as the more fulsome compliment might well be read by you for the worst it might be worth, rather than for the best it might be worth, I'll rest on the compliment and accompanying promise here only. Best regards.
I assure you, Robert Lehrer, that my questions are not lacking sincerity. I searched today for the history of the use of Ms. in our language. It was enlightening but not particularly satisfying. My third question might come the closest to rhetoric in that it was asked with the answer obvious to all. A quick google search informs that your giftedness has been a blessing to many. Much respect to you. I am a student of neuroscience and therefore conscious of how our thought follow the most well worn neural pathways we have created in our own minds. Like so many others here I'm especially grateful for all that I learn here.
As my name is mentioned, I will respond to your comment. I have been a contributor to Letters from an American for many months. I comment most days, as time and schedule permit. Very early on I had questioned if anyone knew Heather's preference as to title. She had commented that she prefered to be called Heather.
If you were to take notice, the very first line of my comments are always a thank you to her as I appreciate her time and expertise. I also end my comments with the same salutation, "be safe, be well".
If Heather preferred that I not call her by name, she could have contacted me. My contact info is in my profile.
I have grown up with Academics all of my life. My brother holds a Doctorate in Education. Any Academic worth their weight is not pining to hear you say "Dr".
I feel Heather is confident enough to not require justification of her education that she needs to hear it from every contributor.
That said, I noticed you referred to me as Ms. Bailey, repeatedly. How do you know, that is my prefered title?
Mr Lehrer, you enjoyed much writing this, didn't you. Eloquent overkill is always fun to write. May I refer to you as Robert, henceforth? Yet, you are right. The only time I was called Dr at my institution was when the Chancellor was pissed off at me for raising cane or challenging the universities' property acquisition policy. Or, for that matter when I was dismissing a colleague from his position. Another one of the little treats that come from reading comments to Heather's LFAA. Some sunshine added in the oft back and forth of our colleague followers. Grand.
Fred WI. Like this comment, as I have indicated, though I don't share your view that the post to which you reply was either eloquent (eloquence being beyond my grasp in ordinary course; Ms. Richardson's letters are often eloquent __and__elegant; very few comments, however otherwise worthy are either ) or overkill. Your in passing reference to "Heather" is noted, and your perceptive observation about the "little treats that come from reading comments to [the Letters]" embraced. As for how you should refer to me, "Bob" will do nicely, as I know you assumed and understand. Best regards.
Point taken, eloquence mistake. The erudition and lengths to which you went reminded me of British snobbery (e.f.Cumming type) and that famous conservative pundit, William Buckley who preferred to blither on in sentences and paragraphs when a simple insult would have worked. Jest wrapped in a giggle of truth is joyful. Be well.
Robert, thank you for taking the time to write your thoughtful and informative reply! Mr. Lehrer, Dr Lehrer, Robert, I have great respect for you, as I do for Heather!
Yes you are correct of course but do you really need to point all this out? It distracts from Robert’s warm tribute to Heather, which I for one certainly appreciate.
I have chuckled as I enjoyed reading the long discussion about female titles. For women the title has always been fraught with controversy. Men are either Mr. or Bob. As an unmarried woman I was first titled with Miss. After I married a man, my title changed to Mrs. After my divorce, when I was no longer married, I was still Mrs. Then along came the new solution, Ms. This title became comfortable in any situation, even though some men sneered at the title by calling me Mizz Haynes. (using a sneer pronunciation as if women made life so complicated for men). I remember a female unmarried college professor at Tennessee Tech in the mid 1960s who told her classes that students should call her Dr. not Miss. “I have not missed a damn thing,” she proclaimed. And so here we are again, in the 21st century still arguing about what title we should use for a woman. Enough already.
This was a perfect tribute on a day when most of us just think about what we'll throw on the grill.
Why didn't I know the name "Frances Perkins" when I was growing up? Why did it take reading a book about FDR decades after leaving school?
The history in today's letter should be taught in every elementary school. Perhaps if kids learned more about the labor movement as a class unto itself, we could break out of the feudal oppression of our current employment system.
Today I Fly the Flag for "LABOR". If there were ever a time for unions to regain strength, it certainly is now. We need some more "Norma Rae". A lot more.
I am a retired Union employee; my Union has come under fire recently from many people, including those in this LFAA community: Police Unions. Admittedly, these Unions often make it difficult for there to be "accountability" for police actions, but there is a reason for this. Because of Police Unions, (generally; I'm only familiar with a handful of local Unions) we cannot be forced to work more than 7 days in a row, there is a pay structure that is independent of race and gender, there must be cause for just termination, and (in my case) the change of elected Sheriff does not impact basic employment with the department.
The lack of "accountability" is the product of generations of Management doing what management does best, screwing with employees and employment conditions. As a public sector field, generally there is not a concern with profit, as there is in manufacturing (for instance). It does not mean that those who are drawn to and rise in Management positions do not have some of the same personality traits or beliefs about "class" as the owners/managers of manufacturing/production. In my own agency, we had a fellow who was dishonest and self-serving. He was a "glad-hander" and was very adept at appealing to those in management, who (over the course of his career) was able to get himself into a position where he was given lots of benefits and opportunities that were not available to those of us who were not so "essential". This same man kept his job after being charged with "untruthfulness" (a termination offense; as an officer, if you cannot tell the truth, you cannot be put under oath and thereby not be trusted to be an officer) once for lying about a crash he caused and a second time for falsifying a time card; both times the County screwed up the process, and two different Union presidents "saved" his job. He dodged termination from a sexual harassment claim by stating he "never knew that behavior was wrong" (and causing each annual evaluation to be accompanied by a "green sheet" stating that the recipient had neither been the victim of or witnessed an event of sexual harassment in the workplace").
This deputy finally retired in lieu of termination (when the DA declined to file Theft charges) following an event where he took travel funds from both the City (where he held an elective position) and the County (where he was a paid deputy) and used his private vehicle and filled the tank with his county gas card.
The two Union presidents who helped him keep his job were both sickened by what he was doing, and disgusted with the County, who refused to listen to them about the contractual requirements needed for termination and botched both the investigation and the process.
Unfortunately, way too many police unions are like the one in Minneapolis, run by Trumpers and defenders of all the "bad apples" - in fact the "baddest apple" is president of the union. I'm fine with them negotiating terms of employment, but when they actively oppose accountability and defend the indefensible, as too many do, then I'm fine with throwing the baby out with the bathwater and ending them. As someone formerly involved in public employment, I saw far too much defense of the indefensible, of the ones who should have been terminated, and not in law enforcement. And too often, the worst ones became the union bureaucracy.
I'll also include the Writer's Guild of America, west, Inc., as a union run by idiots. They chase after each technological development just before it becomes obsolete, and manage in the process of turn things to the worse. When I first joined, they used to be proud to say the average union writer made $50K a year, a nice living. Today they crow about the "average" writer making $85K 40 years later. But a more telling statistic is that back in the old days, 85% of the membership qualified for (platinum) health insurance at any given time, meaning they had been paid equivalent of the minimum for a 30-minute sitcom (at the time, $18,000). Today, 85% of the union doesn't qualify for (a really bad) health plan, meaning they don't make $28,000/year from writing. Thank god I got out of the swamp and now just write books with people who don't think the fact they can sign their name the same way 3 times in succession means they're a "writer."
Most of the "leadership" of the WGA are the "writers" too talentless to work, so they have all the time to play bureaucrat.
This missive is why I love HCR. Very succinctly she puts issues in perspective. Although she didn’t mention it, here we are again on the threshold of “human” infrastructure with legislation pending before Congress. Yet there is a large body of the politic who exclaim there’s nothing in the Constitution about “being our brother’s keeper” and would roll back the New Deal, the Great Society, Obama Care, etc. if they could. Texas… The Supreme Court...
Today’s letter gives me such pause on a personal, familiar yet arm’s length level. My grandmother and all of her sisters were expected to leave school at pre-teen age to go to work in the factories as seamstresses (NY Metro area) at least until they could maneuver into a coveted job at the phone co. as an operator. Her sister lost her husband when her daughter was 2 years old (circa 1935) and worked to support them in the pajama/lingerie factory. Every Xmas Eve we spent together and were gifted w/new PJs or nightgown. I started noticing a distinctive label “ILGWU”— it looked kind of funny to a kid so I asked my great aunt about it—I was around the same age she would’ve had to stop school to work. She explained it was her “union”—the “International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union” and I sensed her passion and dedication to whatever that meant as well as I could comprehend it. Each year I would open the gift and say, “Oh, does it have your label?” and the convo would start again. Remem being mesmerized that these PJs came from the place where she made these things. So, finally I chose it as topic of a “book report” in grade school noting how lucky I was to get to just write about it at the same age she had to quit school to work in the factory and it was far from something to glamorize. These girls—and I mean girls not yet women—really lived/struggled this era of Dr. Heather’s letter today. My grandmother parlayed her skill into her own biz; my Mom worked in it sewing her way thru college to become a teacher—I suppose it was that or a nurse or secretary in the 40s/early 50s although a couple of her friends became CPAs in that era. I was fortunate enough to earn one of those “yuppie” MBAs two generations later. Today’s post brought this context all back with familiarity b/c as a child spent so much time with these women —only wish I could’ve comprehended more fully back then what I can see more clearly through today’s lens as an adult. And now, unbelievably, the struggle continues to hold onto what was so hard won > 80 years ago. Happy Labor Day~
Thank you so much Lauren for your memories! I am from the same general area (metro NY) and very similar situations, and I myself worked and lived in the Garment District for a number of years, although not as a maker (I worked for one of the big textile manufacturers as an office worker). The ILGWU, at the start of my life in the GD, was still a powerful presence, with the international headquarters/union hall a place of importance in the lives and environment of the district. Its life--and the world it made--was ending, however, because of Reagan's union busting and meshuga economic policies, which made it possible for companies such as the one I worked for to off-shore their textile manufactures (leaving much of the Carolinas in a shambles) and to destroy the ILGWU. "Look for the Union Label" (when you are buying a coat, dress, or gloves) is a jingle I still hear in my mind's ear because it really meant something in my youth. Alas, those labels no longer exist.
And Unions have become the enemy of the wealthy who constantly outsource everything.
My longterm memory kicked in: coat, dress, or BLOUSE (not gloves). The ILGWU was also instrumental in the founding of the Fashion Institute of Technology (which was right across the street from the union headquarters in my day). So many people benefited from the activism of that union.
Never knew that re FIT! Thank you
Thanks Linda for sharing your imprint w/in that industry —it seems at least some offshoring to countries where people are actually “laborers of the state” so like we’ve outsourced the struggle. Love the memory jog re that jingle! I remember a tv or radio ad like a chorus of women’s’ voices
Thank you for your beautiful post—I learn as much from comments like yours as I do from Dr. Richardson’s missives.👏🏻❤️
Such a rich story. So full. Thank you, Lauren, for sharing it through your lens of today. Great iconic women in your family. We can give those shapes to children today.
Brava!
Thanks so much—these daily letters really generate such good will.
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing your family's experiences. You've reminded me of a neighbor from my childhood, Jenny Charters, who worked for the ILGWU in San Francisco, not that any of us kids understood what it meant at the time. I wish she was still around so we could say thank you.
My feelings exactly!
Thank you, Lauren, for sharing your own related history in such intimate detail. Very touching and thought-provoking; just beautiful. I am thinking of Labor Day very differently now, thanks to you.
What a beautiful personal account. Thank you.
I love this post. The struggle continues.
Hi Lauren, Your post awakened a host of memories about my grandmother who was an immigrant to the USA (NYC) in the early 1900's. Her husband died after the stock market crash and she returned to being a milliner, a hatmaker, working in a factory. I remember her showing us the ILGWU labels in clothing. She survived and managed to raise her family because of having a job with protections. She was a bitter, old woman when I knew her, but your comments shed light on what made her existence (and thus my father's) possible. They were not easy times, but at least there was the possibility for improvement. We need that vision for the possibility of a better life for our younger population today. Interesting conversation, as always!
It’s kind of good for the soul to tie the present to these shared histories and History—who knew that little label would represent so much—I hope it’s in the Smithsonian!
Thanks for another testament to the benefits of unions.
We dont inherit our democracy…two steps forward, one step back…its a fox trot!
Thanks, indeed, Lauren, for sharing this personal, poignant history. These women in your family no doubt enriched you and beyond, more indelible than the ILGWU labels!
Love your story, the meaning of the union label, your writing about it for school, and how all that lifted you and your family members to a better future.
After he graduated from college, my father, who later became an academic, spent two years working in a textile firm in NYC that he tried to organize. There was too much turnover, alas.
Your story gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of my father's efforts to unionize the NYC textile firm where he worked after graduating college and before getting drafted. He never said much about it, and I never asked. So again, thank you.
Good morning everybody, and Happy Labor Day from here in Maine where the Bangor Daily news recently ran this piece about Secretary Perkins AND our beloved HCR. (I have shortened it for brevity). Please pay particular attention to the third paragraph:
“NEWCASTLE — The Frances Perkins Center will celebrate the life and work of Frances Perkins with a virtual Garden Party and awards ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 15.
This year’s annual Garden Party and awards ceremony celebrates the Center’s receiving a prestigious $500,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Save America’s Treasures grant program to preserve and restore the Frances Perkins Homestead National Historic Landmark, and a $100,000 appropriation from the State of Maine, “An Act To Conserve the Frances Perkins Homestead National Historic Landmark,” to ensure the public has safe and accessible access to the Frances Perkins Homestead.
Honored at this year’s event will be historian Dr. Heather Cox Richardson, who will receive the Center’s Intelligence and Courage Award, and social activist Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez, who will receive the Open Door Award.
Donations from the event will support the Center’s vision to protect Frances Perkins’ beloved home and transform it into a national center for learning and discourse that addresses 21st century economic and social issues.”
Amen, amen, amen to these two awards.
My heart overflows with quiet, deep respect, pride and gratitude for the work and lives of all three women and I am resolved to learn more about Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez and what she is doing.
My wife and I will be making a gift to the Perkins Center in honor of Heather who, like Secretary Perkins and, I’m certain, Juana Rodriguez-Vazquez, is a true National Treasure. Their goal, as stated above, could not be more worthy.
Maine is blessed in so many ways, this among them.
I hope this is the right Juana Rodriguez Vazquez Juana+Rodriguez+Vazquez.jpg
Juana Rodriguez Vazquez
Interim Executive Director &
Migrant Education and Rayitos de Sol Childcare Director
(207) 598-7149
jrodriguez@manomaine.org
“Juana first came to Maine 20 years ago to participate in Maine’s wild blueberry harvest. Her active participation over the years and her commitment to sharing her knowledge and experience with other parents led her to become an AmeriCorps Member with Mano en Mano in 2014. Through this position, Juana was involved in a range of activities such as creating short non-fiction informational videos for other parents, helping to coordinate bi-lingual learning activities for families, and co-presenting about her experiences at national and regional events. Juana was hired as a full-time member of the team in 2016, and promoted to Program Director in 2019. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in education from the University of Maine at Machias and General Elementary (K-8) Teacher Certification from the Maine Department of Education. In 2015, Juana received national recognition as migrant parent of the year from the National Association of State Directors of Migrant Education. Juana is a member of the Boards of Directors of the Women’s Health Resource Library and the Friends of the Milbridge Public Library.”https://www.manomaine.org/staff
Wow. Juana Rodriguez Vazquez is very impressive. Thank you for posting this.
This IS the right Juana Rodriguez Vazquez! And as a retired librarian my favorite thing is that, with all her other accomplishments, she’s also a member of the Boards of Directors of the Women’s Health Resource Library and the Friends of the Milbridge Public Library. 🥰
“Intelligence and Courage” exactly describe Dr. Richardson.
Ralston, many of us were able to attend the party “virtually”. It was outstanding. There was a living room chat with Dr. Richardson that was so engaging. She is so dynamic in her representation and depiction of history and people.
Salud on this holiday!
Thanks so much for this, Christine…..is there a link to the chat that you might share with us all?
Yes! This link is recording of the Garden Party. Enjoy. Also comments here from Sen Elizabeth Warren, another honoree.
https://francesperkinscenter.org/garden-party-2021/
Thank you for sharing this link...I enjoyed watching it. It was interesting how HCR started her letters... info I didn't know. Did she start in September of 2019? I would like to see that first letter.
just now
Here is a FB post of Dr. HCR’s from 1/2017 before the letters started where she begins by saying, “I don’t like to talk about politics on FB.” And now here we are enriched every night:) That day I started following her for sanity—thought might enjoy the look back given your comment— https://www.facebook.com/100005597623240/posts/654265404770041/?d=n
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thanks!
Let me find one, Peter Ralston. (allowing me to address you correctly this time).
I also gave a gift to the Perkins Center and made it in honor of the honoree, HCR. Today's letter shows the importance of drawing anew the work, influence and vision of women whom mainstream history so often erases and makes invisible.
The event was amazing; replay is available:
https://francesperkinscenter.org/garden-party-2021/
Ashley where are you in TN? I have two grand daughters at UT in Knoxville . Haven’t visited yet due to Covid . We are northeast families so new territory
👍🙏
Mary Brennan, I’m in the opposite corner of the state — Home of The Blues💙💙
I’ve come to rely on Dr. Heather’s sub stack letters to get a clear and concise understanding on issues. And of course her historical pieces, such as this one, make for a great read.
Here's the URL for the Perkins Center. It's in Boothbay Harbor. https://francesperkinscenter.org/
How do we connect with the Perkins Center and I’m assuming it’s in Maine ?
www.francesperkinscenter.org
Quite often, it's the bad things that galvanize us to achieve good things. I hate saying this, but it took Donald Trump for me to realize people I had allowed myself to call "the enemy" over the past 30 years weren't - that all of us who believe in democracy, whatever our policy differences, are part of the same party when an existential crisis hits (we can go back to arguing policy differences later). And this week's events in Texas have, I believe, done to the Republicans who are the dog that caught the car what bombing Pearl Harbor did to the Japanese - as Admiral Yamamoto allegedly said upon being informed of the success of the attack, "I fear we have awakened a sleeping giant, and filled him with a terrible purpose."
may we all awaken to a powerful purpose of change
To your last sentence I can only say Amen, Amen, Amen!! Now it’s really and truly up to each of us NOT to just content ourselves with just being in agreement with each other, but actually DOING things to accomplish what we know must be done. It’s going to be very, very interesting to witness the Giant awakening and I’m going to do what I can to that end. As I write this I cannot help but think of John Lewis and his exhortation of “good trouble.” I want to be at least one grain of sand in the Giant’s sheets. Enough sand and the Good Giant has to awake…..
I have told my daughter to be prepared to bail me out. My goal is to be arrested for civil disobedience. Missed out on that in the 60's......
When you go to protest, make sure you write her name and number on two places on your body (arm and belly are my choices) and let the people around you know to call if you get hauled off. Try and travel with a friend; if you're alone, make a new friend.
Thank you for this excellent advice!
I have just pulled out my feminist protest shirt. I will be a 67 year old marching in a shirt that says "This is what a feminist looks like." I also found my first edition copy of "Our Bodies, Our Selves" that I bought during my first in college. It was written before the passing of Roe. I looked through the section on abortion and was saddened that we could return to that time unless we make our feelings known.
I so hope you are right about that
Morning Georgia Girl…
Let’s make sure the Universe does not just hear us “hoping”. Let’s believe and act. I think TC describes it perfectly. Let’s not let the awakening giant go back to sleep right away. I’m going to feed the giant some Wheaties for breakfast!
Brava!
Yes Ma'am!
Here’s hoping. 🤞🏻🙏🏻
It has been a longer morning than the hours would tell. I have been working in workers' hell because that's where they are. By stopping to read your words, the eye of the needle appeared. I didn't stop to say that I've grown fond of you, but it's true.
Well, I'll take the compliments where they are found, and thank you very much for that, since you are a "demanding audience," Fern.
Thank you, TC, for provoking a very early morning smile of camaraderie.
Fern, it sounds like you work a lot of hours. You said further above that you had worked through the night. I'm guessing you work in some essential field, perhaps healthcare?
Thank you for your concern, Elizabeth. When I saw the Letter this morning, I knew how the Fire and the work done by Al Smith Perkins FDR and others on behalf of the people changed the country I though to indicate the reverse of that today. I have been aware of the seriousness of our Management v. Labor divide and what it has been doing to labor for decades. With just a few hours, I put my comment together from scratch. That was the reason for the all night gig. Sometimes when I read a letter its subject matter inspires me to research, and my comments can rarely be done 1,2,3.
Thank you for your contributions. I read with recognition your
exchange with others on whether France is relevant to the labor discussion. Having an outspoken and frank turn of mind has many benefits but comes with risks as well. I have been on what I call my "remedial lessons in diplomacy" program my whole adult life. I am very much still learning which thoughts to share and how, to strike the right balance between my own freedom of speech and not making others feel insulted or dismissed. One example: Decades ago, I mostly enjoyed a small, free, local concert, with one exception. On the way out, I was surprised to see a former colleague. Thinking to commiserate, I said something like "Nice concert, but wow, that execrable trumpet player!" She looked at me gravely for a moment, then said with a slight twinkle, "That trumpet player is my boyfriend."
Elizabeth, I appreciate your personal outreach to me. I wrote a long response for my own benefit - describing the exchanges, my feelings about what was going on and considering what options may be available. This is to share a bit of it with you.
The differences which I engendered, and your kind suggestion that I might find ways to deal better laid my challenges on the table. This dustup was uncomfortable for me and still is. It also was a distraction on the forum, for which I am deeply sorry. I've grown attached the group and learned from Heather's work. I am not sure yet about the remedy, but it will be found soon.
You are friend, Elizabeth. Thank you.
Another example perhaps would be that one of Ike Eisenhower’s first jobs was to patrol Hoovervilles during the Depression, so he saw the real effect of the oligarchy’s economy at ground level.
Sad that the current "Hoovervilles" are alive & well in far too many of our cities right now - not hidden away but right out on a lot of streets & alleys.
Indeed they are. I’m not without care or concern for those in dire straights - but the crime and filth are disturbing. :’-(
I realize there are many instances of drugs, etc., but also many families that have lost their homes, jobs, whole way of life. To have to compact everything you own into a tent - if you have a tent, has to be over-whelming. The lack of safe, low-cost housing in this country & I imagine, others, sure doesnt say much for the care & empathy for others, does it?
I know and consider that when indignation rises - that whole judging conundrum.
Good to know. I like Ike.
I agree, TC. I'm still frightened and disheartened, but hoping that the total horror in Texas will finally wake all but the worst of us to the fact that this wanton disdain for everyone but those who crave power is a threat to all of us. If the lying, cheating, manipulation, and cruelty aren't stopped, our democracy is finished.
"Francis Perkins was as woke as any social justice warrior. Her story shows us a way to be woke that we need to remember if we hope to do half as much for social justice as her generation achieved." George Packer, "Last Best Hope."
That's exactly it TC. Done poked that bear one too many times. Look out, she's pissed.
My late husband’s grandmother worked at the Triangle. On the morning of the fire she felt ill and made the hard decision to stay home. She was a survivor because she didn’t go to work that day! My great-aunt Rose worked in a factory that made men’s shirts. She was very active in the Amalgamated Clothing Workers Union of America. She never married and worked to support herself until she could retire. She was an important part of my life.
From a tragedy, a woman rose to make history! Frances Perkins is a prime example of a woman who validates Ruth Bader Ginsburg's words: "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made." Thank you, dear Prof. HCR, for this exquisite rendition of her determination and her life's work.
We haven't had a break in five years or two, you know exactly what I mean, even so the Letter this morning took us to one of the country's worst catastrophes, The Triangle Fire in 1911. This awful tragedy led to better things, thanks to Al Smith, the Democratic majority leader in the New York legislature, who later became the four term governor of New York State (and, of course, there were more). The other bright light turning tragedy into social good was Francis Perkins. Subscribers followed this determined, capable and deeply social minded, public servant from head of the New York office of the National Consumers League; 'member of the New York State Industrial Commission to help weed out the corruption that was weakening the new laws'; overseeing the state’s labor department to becoming the country's Labor Department Secretary under president Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and let's not forget FDR.
Francis Perkins stipulated that she would agree to become the Labor Secretary only f the president would back her goals: 'unemployment insurance; health insurance; old-age insurance, a 40-hour work week; a minimum wage; and abolition of child labor.' (The Letter) The president asked if she thought it could be done, and she promised to try.
'Once in office, Perkins was a driving force behind the administration’s massive investment in public works projects to get people back to work. She urged the government to spend $3.3 billion on schools, roads, housing, and post offices. Those projects employed more than a million people in 1934.'
'In 1935, FDR signed the Social Security Act, providing ordinary Americans with unemployment insurance; aid to homeless, dependent, and neglected children; funds to promote maternal and child welfare; and public health services.'
'In 1938, Congress passed the Fair Labor Standards Act, which established a minimum wage and maximum hours. It banned child labor.' (The Letter)
I don't know about you, but I was smiling at the end of the letter, while reading, 'Happy Labor's Day, everyone'. Francis had taken us on a wonderful ride. She and Heather gave us a break that we were looking for. But the story doesn't end there. Labor in the United States today is not as it was when Francis Perkins was finished as Labor Secretary or for years after that.
Time did not permit a cogent summary of the situation that American workers find themselves in today. The differences for labor between the 1950s and '60s even the '70s and now have not been provided either. What you do have are excerpts from articles and links to them that present a inkling of what's going on . As you read you'll think of a lots of important issues that are missing. That's all right, you can add them in. Labor is a big story and today, it's full of woe These excerpts will provide a sense of how far down we have gone.
'The U.S. places last relative to its national policies around healthcare, unemployment, retirement, parental leave, and paid vacation and sick days, according to Zenefits, a human resources firm.'
'The Czech Republic, Latvia, South Korea and Mexico joined the U.S. among the five least-generous countries. Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland were the top nations for worker benefits.'
'The U.S., for example, is the only advanced nation that doesn’t guarantee paid vacation time to workers, according to the Center for Economic and Policy Research. By comparison, Europeans get at least 20 days of legally mandated vacation days, and some countries require at least 30.'
'It’s also the only industrialized nation that doesn’t offer universal healthcare for its citizens. The U.S. spends more on healthcare than other high-income countries relative to the size of its economy. However, it also has the highest number of hospitalizations from preventable causes and the highest rate of avoidable deaths relative to other wealthy nations, according to the Commonwealth Fund.' (CNBC) Link below:
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/02/04/us-is-worst-among-rich-nations-for-worker-benefits.html
'Americans work more hours than their counterparts in peer nations, including France and Germany, and many work more than fifty hours a week. Real wages declined for the rank and file in the nineteen-seventies, as did the percentage of Americans who belong to unions, which may be a related development. One can argue that these post-industrial developments mark a return to a pre-industrial order. The gig economy is a form of vassalage. And even workers who don’t work for gig companies like Uber or TaskRabbit now work like gig workers. Most jobs created between 2005 and 2015 were temporary jobs. Four in five hourly retail workers in the United States have no reliable schedule from one week to another. Instead, their schedules are often set by algorithms that aim to maximize profits for investors by reducing breaks and pauses in service—the labor equivalent of the just-in-time manufacturing system that was developed in the nineteen-seventies in Japan, a country that coined a word for “death by overwork” but whose average employee today works fewer hours than his American counterpart. As the sociologist Jamie K. McCallum reports in “Worked Over: How Round-the-Clock Work Is Killing the American Dream” (Basic), Americans have fewer paid holidays than workers in other countries, and the United States is all but alone in having no guaranteed maternity leave and no legal right to sick leave or vacation time. Meanwhile, we’re told to love work, and to find meaning in it, as if work were a family, or a religion, or a body of knowledge' (New Yorker).
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2021/01/18/whats-wrong-with-the-way-we-work
'Women continue to weather the worst of this coronavirus-induced economic storm, but out in the horizon, another disturbance is forming.'
'Public sector jobs are expected to take a greater hit as plummeting tax revenues across the country slash local and state government budgets, setting off layoffs and furloughs. When the job losses come, it’ll be women who will be most at risk'.
'Nearly 60% of public sector employees are women, many of them women of color — the same demographic groups that already experienced the highest rates of unemployment when COVID-19 ripped through the job market. (Unemployment for Latinas peaked at 20.2% this year, and unemployment for Black women hit 16.5%). The one-two punch of the depletion of child care options and the closure of service sector businesses, jobs dominated by women, set off the nation’s first female recession. About 54% of all the jobs lost since the pandemic began were held by women.' (USA)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2020/09/10/unemployment-during-covid-19-hit-women-public-sector-harder/5729043002/
' Americans’ work conditions are terrible. No wonder many don’t want to go back.
In the restaurant and hospitality industry, many workers still receive the tipped federal minimum wage of $2.13 an hour. The restaurant industry accounts for more sexual harassment claims than any other sector, with incidents citing customers and co-workers. In recent years, top chefs including Momofuku’s David Chang were revealed to rage at workers on the job. “People are forgetting that restaurant workers have actually experienced decades of abuse and trauma. The pandemic is just the final straw,”Crystal Maher, a restaurant worker in Austin, recently told The Post.'
'But white-collar work wasn’t in a healthy state either. Even before covid-19, the pressure to work long hours was immense, with many survey respondents admitting to checking emails after hours and during vacation.'
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/06/02/another-way-think-about-worker-crisis-americans-work-conditions-are-terrible/
Some worried Americans have considered the country's enormous wealth gap as a major reason for the social animosity and polarization. Have we so thought enough about the lives of America's workers and their much diminished communities -- how that, too, is part of their anti-social behavior. Why doesn't the meanness of their lives, perhaps, even more than the lies and propaganda ratify their sense of grievance? The lies and the propaganda may help fuel and channel it, but the workers daily existence is the starting point. Have the American workers been screwed? There is also a sub-group - malcontents - mini Trumps - they've always been around - 5% - 10%, perhaps, the 'experts' know. Is there too much concentration on Trump and his enablers, when more time might is need in knowing the base. What percent is salvageable and what changes in labor and the safety net need to be done Time for Francis Perkins, several of them to put the American workers back together again.
Morning dear Fern.
“Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland”… most generous towards workers.
You know, remarkable how often one sees those countries linked with abundance and generosity of spirit and community. Those guidelines run through the infrastructure of common good such as education and healthcare in those countries.
Our country must repair our spirit before we can fix anything. Personally, I’m up for the challenge. It involves all of us, not just an executive or a legislator or robed jurist.
We are the people.
Brava!
And in these countries, the Prime Minister etc often can be seen coming to work on a bicycle!
See. That’s what I’m talking about. Suggestions and models of healthy behavior. I’ll put some WD-40 on bike chain and gears today. Thanks Stuart!
Best Practices so to speak!
A very good Labor Day to you, Christine!
Alas, I'm sad to say, even within this forum, competition and garrulousness rear their ugly heads causing a distinct lack of generosity of spirit and community. And you're right, repair is necessary - it must begin in each individual's heart and radiate out.
I see that too and suppose that community meetings often include a little competition and garrulousness. That we’re coalescing as a community is bringing me hope - an essential nutrient for advocacy. For that, thank you Heather and my fellow town-folk!
It’s our work to do. No one can do it for the other. Yet, it can be so instant and change everything.
Sing it, say it, proclaim it, believe it.
We are all in this together.
There is enough to go around!
💜
All countries in the Top 10 Happiest countries in the world. Finland #1, Denmark #2.
We are the people. I feel like our community is growing. :’-)
A brilliant and comprehensive post. Thank you. We are a feudal society that worships wealth and we are impressed by IPO billionaires - but don't honor the vast majority that hold us together with daily attention to the details of life that we take for granted.
@Bill Alstron, we are indeed a feudal society, as you point out and many other comments here illustrate. As a child, I read a fairy tale about a cruel queen who confiscated all the milk in her realm for baths to soften her skin, and was oblivious to all the children who had no milk. How is this morality tale any different from, for example, Jeff Bezos spending billions gained from exploiting his millions of warehouse workers, on his private space program, and on landing from his first joyride to space, with stupefying arrogance and cluelessness, thanking his workers because (paraphrase) "you guys made all this possible."
I suspect the fairy tale you are referring to may have been inspired by Countess Elizabeth Bartory who bathed in the blood of maidens to maintain her youth. I could be wrong.
https://www.historyandwomen.com/2009/10/elizabeth-bathory-blood-countess.html
Yikes!
Probably. The fairy tale no doubt softened the story so that children could learn its moral without being brutally traumatized. The real story of that countess is one I still cannot dwell on without risking nightmares.
Me either. When I read a biography of her I was incredulous.
Thank you, Bill. A less rushed job on my part would tell a more frightening and tragic story. You are so right to label this a 'feudal' society. The people are being duped. They are crazy angry. We deserve some of it, but the architects and profiteers are whistling Dixie.
We are capable of so much more but too many lack the aspiration, energy, or determination to do or be better. We should be ashamed of our lethargy, but are entirely too self-absorbed. Thank you, Fern, for your reminder and plea to do better.
As long as you don't descend to the level of France where the "disincentive to work" and the "unwillingness" to take responsibility for your life has grown massively over the period since Reagan arrived in the White House when the French went in the opposite direction. Mistakes made were and are legion, taxes on labour for social security on the employer and the employee effectively only leave half....and that before tax....to the worker and encourage massive outsourcing to third-world " Dante-esque shirt makers". The french average working year is the shortest in Europe but their hourly productivity is amongst the highest....cheap automation replaces expensive jobs. Privat sector labour's participation in Unions is much less than in the US and the Unions, funded mostly by the central government have become concentrated in the public services and operate strictly as militant political agents. A happy medium is necessary if the country is to maintain its wealth production machine and the benefits thus generated are equitably shared.
Stuart, the story here is much worse than I had the time to put together. The seriousness of this country's bind provides poor odds. And Stuart, I'm not interested in France, at this time. In addition, however it is off course there is no, no chance of this country slipping in that direction. To be even more direct, France is irrelevant to our abyss.
I am interested in France; I am interested in the world. There are many different approaches to these problems throughout the world, and our idea of American exceptionalism gets in the way of our learning from other nations. Both what to do, and what to avoid.
I will never forget a conversation I had with my then congressional rep, a neighbor. We were discussing a minor surgery I had in Italy. His wife was shocked that I trusted Italian doctors enough to have a procedure done there. He could not understand how the procedure was done at no cost to me. The ignorance was profound, and this person was making decisions about our national health care.
The world is so interconnected. We ignore other nations at our peril, and theirs.
Agreed, must look at other country's approaches. Why reinvent the wheel. Why NOT look at what other's have done?
I have been up through the night working, so have no interest in adding to our difference. Except for this, I am deleting my responses to you and hope that we move on. Thank you.
Done as well, Fern. I respect you enormously, and value your contributions here. Many apologies that I was too quick off the draw this morning.
Kathy, I appreciate your apology and accept it. I credit your passion and innocence for a rush to judgement.
In replying to you now, I also seek a wider audience of subscribers as I believe there was a misguided piling up by some subscribers. In fact, this part of my response is an appropriate comment to subscribers, so I shall post again it that way as well.
In two complaints, which have since been deleted, it was claimed that I brought up France in a 'missive', so there was no reason for me to turn away Stuart's comment about France's labor economy. As clearly indicated in my comment, France and Germany were mentioned in an excerpt from an article in the New Yorker. The reference was duly cited in my comment. In the excerpt, the writer pointed out that the working hours of Americans were much longer as compared to other countries, yet this complaint against me was brought up twice. Subscribers who liked/agreed with the complaint, clearly, had not referred to my comment.
Another roundly seconded attack was that I was uninterested in other countries and what can be learned from them. This was an unfounded and, to me, an offensive argument. It was based on my belief that consideration of France's labor problems, a country turned in the opposite direction of America's system, more controlled by business/corporate interests since the Reagan years, was not pertinent to the issues revolving around the effects our system has had on working Americans. We are at a very pivotal and dangerous point in the country. Much been said and written negatively about the 'ignorance' and 'rage' of Trump's base calling them pawns of Trump's and of the Republican Party. It was easy for those autocratic business forces to use and manipulate the working class, whose misery they and a few bigtime Democrats are responsible for.
How much interest do comfortable Americans and the rest of us have on knowing why so many democrat leaning workers turned to Trump and became part of his base? They are not the whole of the base but a big part of it. The goal of my comment was to cast a look at what has been happening to working Americans in addition to the effects of technology. What are the results of our system favoring Big Business and Corporate interests, in cahoots with the Republican Party, over the working people of America? In attempt to raise this side of the equation, I thought Stuart's comments about France's labor problem from his perspective a distraction. When he persisted a second time, I admit that I lost patience. Here, Kathy, I believe you were correct in suggesting to just 'walk on by'.
The grand work of Francis Perkins, FDR, the unions and many, many others on behalf of the American people have been greatly diminished and some way entirely lost. Let us not be distracted from knowing who and what has caused this. We are one with the working people of America. The people need to show each other how this is true.
Been there.
I don’t see the “rude” and am glad for the conversation. I’ve yet to see Stuart as someone who needs defending.
From experience, Fern, i would like to say the the French would be most upset at being labelled "irrelevant" in anything given their exaggerated idea of their own importance but i agree with you in this. It just provides a cautionary tale if you don't have a good idea of the long term consequences of your acts.
What an unruffled, decent, big-hearted reply to Fern that was, Stuart Attewell. I salute you and, with luck, take away a priceless lesson.
'take away a priceless lesson.' and what would that lesson be?
The lesson, Fern? To try to accept/address insult and criticism with understanding and compassion.
Your civility is always appreciated.
Thank you Fern, for another great contribution.
Thank you, Fern, for all the information in this post.
I love you, Fern. thank you for this essay.
Wow! And sad. Thanks for more
In December, 1828, the first ever labor strike in the United States took place in the Cocheco Mills in Dover, NH (my home town). The "Mill Girl Strike" involved about 600 cotton weavers (all female). New owners had bought the mill and lowered the women's wages but not the men's or management's (sound familiar?). The strikers wanted an end to these "Tariff Wages", an end to the practice of individuals in the company enriching themselves through "fines" (the women made 42 cents a day - the previous owners paid 47, and could be fined 12 1/2 cents if late for work, etc, money they believed was sometimes being pocked by supervisors, and the recognition that the mill owners were enriching themselves on the backs of those "least able to afford it" All very familiar. In the end, the workers had to give in when the company began hiring other workers (mainly from Quebec, I believe). I do not do justice to this story or to the women who participated in it. They did set the pattern for future strikes in America and effective labor activism in general. We owe them all a tremendous debt. Happy Labor day everyone! - I'm off to work now.
Hail Frances Perkins. And all women. Thank you. And thank you Professor for teaching us. Happy Labor Day all.
(Sweden)
How convenient is it not that we now can outsource shirt production out of sight, with the same dangerous production facilities with low wages, and still be able to buy the shirts we want even with our low or moderate incomes. - Documentary films have an important role to be aware of: things far apart, that do belong together, must be shown together for the world to heal.
This is a good point. We want humane work conditions in the US, but this must not be at the expense of others elsewhere. What is the solution?
The solution is to keep manufacturing here in the US; to pay a living wage to the workers, and to charge a bit more for the product, and to make less of an obscene profit, but a more modest one.
A redirection of the "worship of wealth" to a respect for labor of all kinds.
To realize that the person processing our trash and recycling is as essential as anyone else.
To realize that just because we have the digital tools, we don't have to demand that parents carry them at all times - ready to work at every "notification".
To actually care about the working conditions of other humans across the globe requires pulling ourselves out of our ignominious self inflicted ignorance. It might mean challenging the cheap luxury of our phone or big TV. It might mean sacrifice. Good luck with that.
It could start in churches. But apparently, they are too busy fighting culture wars.
As I mentioned: global awareness must catch up with global trade. Maybe also redefining fascism as gaining at the cost of others; making it more difficult to identify 'fascists' as 'the others'.
Really pleased to see the responses here. I saw the documentary "China Blue" a while ago, about a girl who makes denim jeans in a factory in China. Terrible, terrible working conditions. Yet I doubt Americans would be willing to pay more for US-made goods. Sadly, most of us don't consider an "other" to be quite as worthy as we are.
You are on to something here. We still want cheap stuff, but when it’s made by unseen slave child workers in Malaysia we look the other way.
This story never fails to amaze me. It reminds us that there was a time when things had gone too far and decent people said enough and fixed it for a little while, at least.
Isn’t it sad that we keep fighting the same battles over and over for decent treatment of others? I guess we do because greed never dies; its roots grow deep.
It IS, Jenn ... and IMO you have properly identified the driving force.
I have been having photos of child laborers show up on my Facebook feed the past few days. The 6 year old coal miner smoking a pipe, and three 10 year old girls in a factory. Nary a peep from the Republiqan folks. Maybe they've all blocked me.
Until I started following your letters I had but a scant knowledge of Frances Perkins' achievements. Your letter this Labor Day (and your other writings) paints a portrait of an amazing American.
When the Triangle Shirt Factory burned, women could not yet vote. Yet that did not deter her from becoming a powerful force that changed the course of the labor movement and reshaped the American economy for almost a century now. I believe you said that she stayed as a cabinet member for FDR through his entire presidency. What she accomplished is amazing!
Ironic isn't it, that she called out Hoover for his plan to let the the Depression "burn itself out". Has anything really changed? That is exactly how the GOP approached our current crisis. And now we have 650,000 dead as a testimonial to their laissez faire approach to it (and damned near everything else that doesn't involve women's rights).
So happy Labor Day Dr. HCR, and a happy Labor Day to the American worker!
Exactly! 🤙🏻
Happy Labor Day, and thank you for the sharing the Triangle Shirt Factory tragedy of workers being locked in - afraid they might steal a BLOUSE. I’m taken back to September 1991 in Hamlet, NC where 25 workers died behind locked doors when a fire broke out at the Imperial Foods factory. Locked because the owners thought a worker might steal a CHICKEN. We must continue the fight for worker’s rights and women’s rights.
Thank you, Dr. Richardson. I so appreciate your history knowledge. Frances Perkins, was a true champion for the people. Contrast her to the vile hooligans (the list is long) who destroy and disrupt the American Dream for ordinary people. President Biden is on track to be the FDR of the 21st century, but he faces some unprecedented obstacles.
I often think that of Biden too. FDR faced unprecedented obstacles as well. Things our nation had never dealt with then, as we have never seen these problems either. So it gives me hope that Biden can be just that, the FDR of our times. If we could just mobilize the people! I just have hope again!
Just the fact that Joe Biden won the presidential election gives me enormous hope.
As she often does, Ms. Richardson simply tells the historical story in straightforward terms and the story instructs. Beautifully done.
Robert, it is so obvious that you admire Dr. Heather Cox Richardson's work and abilities, so it would be wonderful if you would address her by the appropriate titles which she so deserves: Dr. or Prof. She has earned a Ph.D., hence Dr.; and she teaches in one of the most reputable colleges in the US, hence Professor. Ms. doesn't quite do justice to her stature in life, nor to her intelligence, knowledge, and creativity. You wouldn't diminish a male professor to Mr.,would you? Many thanks for reconsidering her title.
If you were aware of conventions at universities like Boston College (which are not only simply "reputable" but elite), which apparently you are not, you would understand that, in the current context (see more on context below), which includes Boston College, I am being fully respectful of the appropriate conventions, and, per force, of Ms. Richardson. And you would not rebuke me, albeit mildly, more or less, as you have. Thus, at such universities, where all faculty members, even junior faculty members, in fields in which the terminal degree is a PhD. (e.g. all humanities and social science fields) are routinely referred to as Mr. or Ms. as well as Professor, but rarely, if ever, "Dr." This is mostly because at such universities, virtually all such faculty members have PhD degrees;; the degree therefore does not distinguish them from their colleagues, so its utility is marginal. In contrast, on high school faculties, on which a PhD degree is a rarity, the holders of same are routinely referred to as "Dr.," the title being mark of distinction on that faculty, whereas it would not be at Boston College.
It follows, in answer to your query, that if today's letter were written by a man similarly situated to Ms. Richardson (i.e. a tenured professor at an elite university holding a PhD), I absolutely would refer to him as "Mr._____" No disrespect would be intended.
It all depends on context. For example, Rachel Maddow, whom I am quite sure you watch and admire, as do I, holds a PhD from Oxford. But I have never heard any guest on her show e refer to her as "Dr. Maddow." Indeed, I don't think I have ever heard anyone refer to her "Ms. Maddow," though it is possible some guests have. She is virtually always referred to as "Rachel."
Which brings us to the context here--the Letters, the ensuing comments and the standards you are applying in rebuking me for: using the reference "Ms. Richardson"; and, you also suggest, bringing to this comment section sexist attitudes and bias-- thus your unwarranted assertion that I would never employ the same reference with respect to a similarly situated male professor with a PhD. The point is that the comments here are (happily) informal and conversational, rather like the exchanges on Rachel Maddow's show. Consistently, participants refer to Ms. Richardson variously, whatever they feel comfortable with in this informal forum, so sometimes by "Dr." and "Professor " but also by "Ms. Richardson," "HCR," and, significantly, "Heather," a more familiar reference than "Ms. Richardson," and therefore in some contexts though not this one, a disrespectful one . Indeed, in this very thread, just a few comments below yours (and posted an hour before yours, so you may well have seen it), Ms. Linda Bailey thanks "Heather," not even "Ms. Richardson," much less Dr. or Prof. Richardson. No rebuke of Ms. Bailey from you that I see. To be sure, you may not have seen her post, but surely, in your review of the comments in ordinary course, you have seen references to "Heather"; they are common enough. Have you ever once rebuked the writers, some of them women, like Ms. Bailey, for this usage? If no, how do you square your rebuke here, with your failure to rebuke these other writers?
Nothing herein is meant to suggest that your post is anything less than well meaning and well intended ; you are coming to Ms. Richardson's defense, because you think, wrongly, that I have shown her insufficient respect.. Nor do I suggest that you are bound to, or should use the reference "Ms. Richardson," much less "Heather," or that your referring to her as "Dr. Richardson" or "Prof. Richardson" is inappropriate (for __you__). For if you feel more comfortable using those references, and use them to signify your respect for Ms. Richardson, you absolutely should continue to employ them, not that you need my approval or anyone's for that matter, to do so. At the same time, you should not go about issuing uninformed rebukes like the one to me for using the reference "Ms. Richardson," and then one, equally uninformed, casting doubts about my respect for women generally and my commitment to equal rights for them.
Best regards.
Allow me to debunk one point. People use the familiar “Heather”, because that is her given name and something she has encouraged people to use. Especially when they address her directly in a comment as Linda has done. Your comment referred to Professor Richardson in the third person. In addition, I have not ever seen an instance that the title “Ms” was used to address the author. I noticed it right away in your comment, did not feel it took away from the compliment, yet still felt it correct of a subscriber to make the point of title. It’s been done before on this forum.
Your response is quite long on defense and rather haughty in my opinion. We are not at Boston U where, according to you, the title of “Dr” is so common that it doesn’t command the level of respect that most people here have for that title. Especially when addressing the author of LFAA.
The subscriber that made a point to you is a very informed professor that is most likely very aware of conventions at an elite institution.
Chill a bit. It’s Labor Day.
Agree. But I found the response educational. Thanks.
I am not an academic and I am certainly not familiar with the nuances of nomenclature in universities, but increasingly I find that people now use first names, even with relative strangers. I see no harm in that. Even lawyers, at each others' throats occasionally, still largely communicate with first names. Perhaps Heather (if I may be so bold) you would like to adjudicate and say what is or is not acceptable when we refer to you in glowing terms? Now, as Christine (FL) has said, let's chill. I have to get on with the day job!
Richard, I actually had questioned many months ago if she had stated a preference. She had, it is her preference that she be acknowledged as, Heather.
Oh thank you Linda! More by luck than judgment I seem to have stumbled on the right answer then!
Geez, Bob Lehrer, put away your bazooka. It was a request, not a rebuke.
I’ve addressed this to Robert Lehrer previously and having gotten the same exact response, I now have more questions than answers. I wonder if it is possible that there is a cultural connotation to “Ms.” that feels demeaning to some of us? When it’s use comes from a person firmly entrenched in the patriarchy, whether they want to own it or not, to address a wise woman, could it feel especially cutting? At a time when the patriarchy is gaining ground in leaps and bounds is it surprising we are all a little sensitive to perceived slights? And if we are repeatedly questioned about our choice of words, are their some among us who might adjust or at least be more curious than mansplaining?
Mansplaining. Bull’s-eye.
Hahaha.
Not more questions than answers, but an equal number of questions and answers, since all of your questions are rhetorical, so that not only is no answer required or expected, but the answers (yours) are assumed, including ones that demean the intended fielder of the question. Still, your questions are good ones, and call my attention to subtleties of language that I had not fully considered or considered at all. And for that I thank you, the thank you being coupled with a promise to think about the questions you raise and the answers you offer. I would be inclined to extend you and your post a more fulsome compliment, but as the more fulsome compliment might well be read by you for the worst it might be worth, rather than for the best it might be worth, I'll rest on the compliment and accompanying promise here only. Best regards.
I assure you, Robert Lehrer, that my questions are not lacking sincerity. I searched today for the history of the use of Ms. in our language. It was enlightening but not particularly satisfying. My third question might come the closest to rhetoric in that it was asked with the answer obvious to all. A quick google search informs that your giftedness has been a blessing to many. Much respect to you. I am a student of neuroscience and therefore conscious of how our thought follow the most well worn neural pathways we have created in our own minds. Like so many others here I'm especially grateful for all that I learn here.
As my name is mentioned, I will respond to your comment. I have been a contributor to Letters from an American for many months. I comment most days, as time and schedule permit. Very early on I had questioned if anyone knew Heather's preference as to title. She had commented that she prefered to be called Heather.
If you were to take notice, the very first line of my comments are always a thank you to her as I appreciate her time and expertise. I also end my comments with the same salutation, "be safe, be well".
If Heather preferred that I not call her by name, she could have contacted me. My contact info is in my profile.
I have grown up with Academics all of my life. My brother holds a Doctorate in Education. Any Academic worth their weight is not pining to hear you say "Dr".
I feel Heather is confident enough to not require justification of her education that she needs to hear it from every contributor.
That said, I noticed you referred to me as Ms. Bailey, repeatedly. How do you know, that is my prefered title?
Mr Lehrer, you enjoyed much writing this, didn't you. Eloquent overkill is always fun to write. May I refer to you as Robert, henceforth? Yet, you are right. The only time I was called Dr at my institution was when the Chancellor was pissed off at me for raising cane or challenging the universities' property acquisition policy. Or, for that matter when I was dismissing a colleague from his position. Another one of the little treats that come from reading comments to Heather's LFAA. Some sunshine added in the oft back and forth of our colleague followers. Grand.
Fred WI. Like this comment, as I have indicated, though I don't share your view that the post to which you reply was either eloquent (eloquence being beyond my grasp in ordinary course; Ms. Richardson's letters are often eloquent __and__elegant; very few comments, however otherwise worthy are either ) or overkill. Your in passing reference to "Heather" is noted, and your perceptive observation about the "little treats that come from reading comments to [the Letters]" embraced. As for how you should refer to me, "Bob" will do nicely, as I know you assumed and understand. Best regards.
Point taken, eloquence mistake. The erudition and lengths to which you went reminded me of British snobbery (e.f.Cumming type) and that famous conservative pundit, William Buckley who preferred to blither on in sentences and paragraphs when a simple insult would have worked. Jest wrapped in a giggle of truth is joyful. Be well.
Nicely written. Agree.
Just chill.
Robert, thank you for taking the time to write your thoughtful and informative reply! Mr. Lehrer, Dr Lehrer, Robert, I have great respect for you, as I do for Heather!
Yes you are correct of course but do you really need to point all this out? It distracts from Robert’s warm tribute to Heather, which I for one certainly appreciate.
Yes, I do, because the "Ms." immediately detracts and "distracts from Robert's warm tribute ..."
Chill.
I have chuckled as I enjoyed reading the long discussion about female titles. For women the title has always been fraught with controversy. Men are either Mr. or Bob. As an unmarried woman I was first titled with Miss. After I married a man, my title changed to Mrs. After my divorce, when I was no longer married, I was still Mrs. Then along came the new solution, Ms. This title became comfortable in any situation, even though some men sneered at the title by calling me Mizz Haynes. (using a sneer pronunciation as if women made life so complicated for men). I remember a female unmarried college professor at Tennessee Tech in the mid 1960s who told her classes that students should call her Dr. not Miss. “I have not missed a damn thing,” she proclaimed. And so here we are again, in the 21st century still arguing about what title we should use for a woman. Enough already.
Thank you.
This was a perfect tribute on a day when most of us just think about what we'll throw on the grill.
Why didn't I know the name "Frances Perkins" when I was growing up? Why did it take reading a book about FDR decades after leaving school?
The history in today's letter should be taught in every elementary school. Perhaps if kids learned more about the labor movement as a class unto itself, we could break out of the feudal oppression of our current employment system.
Today I Fly the Flag for "LABOR". If there were ever a time for unions to regain strength, it certainly is now. We need some more "Norma Rae". A lot more.
I am a retired Union employee; my Union has come under fire recently from many people, including those in this LFAA community: Police Unions. Admittedly, these Unions often make it difficult for there to be "accountability" for police actions, but there is a reason for this. Because of Police Unions, (generally; I'm only familiar with a handful of local Unions) we cannot be forced to work more than 7 days in a row, there is a pay structure that is independent of race and gender, there must be cause for just termination, and (in my case) the change of elected Sheriff does not impact basic employment with the department.
The lack of "accountability" is the product of generations of Management doing what management does best, screwing with employees and employment conditions. As a public sector field, generally there is not a concern with profit, as there is in manufacturing (for instance). It does not mean that those who are drawn to and rise in Management positions do not have some of the same personality traits or beliefs about "class" as the owners/managers of manufacturing/production. In my own agency, we had a fellow who was dishonest and self-serving. He was a "glad-hander" and was very adept at appealing to those in management, who (over the course of his career) was able to get himself into a position where he was given lots of benefits and opportunities that were not available to those of us who were not so "essential". This same man kept his job after being charged with "untruthfulness" (a termination offense; as an officer, if you cannot tell the truth, you cannot be put under oath and thereby not be trusted to be an officer) once for lying about a crash he caused and a second time for falsifying a time card; both times the County screwed up the process, and two different Union presidents "saved" his job. He dodged termination from a sexual harassment claim by stating he "never knew that behavior was wrong" (and causing each annual evaluation to be accompanied by a "green sheet" stating that the recipient had neither been the victim of or witnessed an event of sexual harassment in the workplace").
This deputy finally retired in lieu of termination (when the DA declined to file Theft charges) following an event where he took travel funds from both the City (where he held an elective position) and the County (where he was a paid deputy) and used his private vehicle and filled the tank with his county gas card.
The two Union presidents who helped him keep his job were both sickened by what he was doing, and disgusted with the County, who refused to listen to them about the contractual requirements needed for termination and botched both the investigation and the process.
Unfortunately, way too many police unions are like the one in Minneapolis, run by Trumpers and defenders of all the "bad apples" - in fact the "baddest apple" is president of the union. I'm fine with them negotiating terms of employment, but when they actively oppose accountability and defend the indefensible, as too many do, then I'm fine with throwing the baby out with the bathwater and ending them. As someone formerly involved in public employment, I saw far too much defense of the indefensible, of the ones who should have been terminated, and not in law enforcement. And too often, the worst ones became the union bureaucracy.
I'll also include the Writer's Guild of America, west, Inc., as a union run by idiots. They chase after each technological development just before it becomes obsolete, and manage in the process of turn things to the worse. When I first joined, they used to be proud to say the average union writer made $50K a year, a nice living. Today they crow about the "average" writer making $85K 40 years later. But a more telling statistic is that back in the old days, 85% of the membership qualified for (platinum) health insurance at any given time, meaning they had been paid equivalent of the minimum for a 30-minute sitcom (at the time, $18,000). Today, 85% of the union doesn't qualify for (a really bad) health plan, meaning they don't make $28,000/year from writing. Thank god I got out of the swamp and now just write books with people who don't think the fact they can sign their name the same way 3 times in succession means they're a "writer."
Most of the "leadership" of the WGA are the "writers" too talentless to work, so they have all the time to play bureaucrat.
You are so right , Ally. Paragraph 2, sentence 1 says it all.
Morning, Ally!! Like me, I'm sure you're glad to now be retired!
Yes I am!!!
Pretty sure that’s exactly why we never learned it in school. There’s a reason the rich always send their kids to expensive private schools
This missive is why I love HCR. Very succinctly she puts issues in perspective. Although she didn’t mention it, here we are again on the threshold of “human” infrastructure with legislation pending before Congress. Yet there is a large body of the politic who exclaim there’s nothing in the Constitution about “being our brother’s keeper” and would roll back the New Deal, the Great Society, Obama Care, etc. if they could. Texas… The Supreme Court...
Or in the perspective of this past week, “our sisters’ keeper”.
Yes, literally: but mankind generally. 😊
These are the same people who would call themselves “Christians”.