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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E628-E629]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
IN CELEBRATION OF THE ROSIE THE RIVETER ROSE GARDEN
______
HON. DEBBIE DINGELL
of michigan
in the house of representatives
Monday, July 13, 2020
Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the dedication
of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden at the McFadden Ross House in
Dearborn, Michigan.
Rosie the Riveter is one of the most iconic images of female
ingenuity, perseverance, and strength. As widespread male enlistment
left gaping holes in the industrial labor force during World War II,
the Rosie the Riveter campaign was launched to recruit female workers
to join the wartime labor force and fill the gaps in male-dominated
industries. The bandana-clad Rosie flashing her bicep quickly became
one of the most successful recruiting tools in American history.
Inspiring a ``We Can Do It!'' attitude among women across the country,
the campaign prompted an estimated five million civilian women to enter
the defense industry and commercial sector. Known as the ``Rosies,''
the powerful women produced airplanes, ammunitions, and warships on a
massive scale. They worked as riveters, sanders, welders, assembly line
workers, Red Cross volunteers, and so much more.
The dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden exemplifies our
community's continued admiration for the Rosies and how important they
are to Michigan's story. As part
[[Page E629]]
of the Arsenal of Democracy, Southeastern Michigan became one of the
greatest suppliers of airplanes, tanks, trucks, and weapons for the
American war effort. The automotive industry quickly adapted to produce
wartime supplies on an automotive-style assembly line, and the opening
of the famous Willow Run Bomber Plant led to the impressive completion
of one bomber per hour. Rosies working in factories throughout Michigan
became the emblem for wartime production, and their hard work and
efforts were crucial to America and its allies in winning the global
conflict.
The call for women to join the workforce during World War II was
meant to be temporary. Yet, the Rosies' efforts shattered the glass
ceiling for women in the labor force, and clearly demonstrated that
women were capable, smart, and strong workers who could hold their own.
Their impact revolutionized the workplace, and their example paved a
path for generations of women to follow. They have become the ultimate
symbol of female empowerment, and their legacy is one that will never
be forgotten.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the
dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden. I am grateful for our
community's commitment to honoring these amazing women and their
contribution to progress. The beautiful, strong, and resilient roses
will remind all of the remarkable Rosies who made victory possible and
changed America forever.
____________________
