Influence and activism of Women

• Frances Perkins -

  • appointed by Roosevelt as secretary of Labour (1933-45)
  • Influential in introduction of social welfare programmes into the New Deal.
  • First female cabinet member - Hugh Johnson said she was 'the best man in the cabinet'.
• Fannie Peck -

  • Set up series of Housewives leagues in Detroit, 1930
  • Worked to encourage women to shop in black-run stores
  • Organise local help for those in need
• Eleanor Roosevelt -

  • Gave training for 'budget management' for young women. By 1936, 36 camps employing 5000 women annually. However camps only open 2/3 months a year and gave no wages.
  • Spoke out against racism
  • Held press conferences confined to women reporters
  • Ensured women received New Deal help
  • Ensured women with a case or cause had access to the president