About the Program
Kirstin Downey, former staff writer for The Washington Post, recalls the life of Frances Perkins, FDR's Secretary of Labor and the first female Cabinet secretary. During her tenure, Frances Perkins was responsible for promoting public works and employment projects, which included the establishment of the 40-hour workweek, the creation of social security, and child labor laws. Francis Perkins was appointed Secretary of Labor on March 4, 1933. This event was hosted by the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.