[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 125 (Monday, July 13, 2020)]
[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

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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.

                          ____________________