[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1461]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  A DAY TO HONOR ``ROSIE THE RIVETER''

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                           HON. JARED HUFFMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my friend and 
colleague George Miller, to honor the important contributions of women 
on the Home Front during World War II.
   During World War II, 6 million women entered the workforce 
nationwide, increasing the female percentage in the workforce from 27 
percent to 37 percent. Women replaced men in many traditionally male 
jobs as men enlisted in active military service. They worked as 
riveters, welders, electricians, and draftsmen, among others.
   Working women during World War II set the stage for working women 
today. African American women overcame long-held policies of 
discrimination and made significant contributions to the war effort by 
working in the shipyards and in supporting the Home Front. Federal, 
state, and local public and private agencies coordinated efforts to 
develop child care programs for working mothers.
   Today, the image of ``Rosie the Riveter'' and the phrase ``We Can Do 
It'' have come to symbolize women's empowerment.
   On October 24, 2000, the Rosie the Riveter-World War II Home Front 
National Historical Park Establishment Act of 2000 was enacted into 
law. As we approach the anniversary of that date, we ask that you take 
time on that day to honor the important contributions of women on the 
Home Front during World War II.

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