Podcast Summary: Here's Where It Gets Interesting – "Dear Miss Perkins" with Rebecca Brenner Graham
Release Date: January 13, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, host Sharon McMahon engages in an enlightening conversation with Rebecca Brenner Graham, the author of "Dear Miss Perkins." The discussion centers around Frances Perkins, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in American history, and Graham's exploration of her influence on immigration policy and refugee assistance during World War II.
Frances Perkins: A Brief Biography
Rebecca Brenner Graham begins by outlining Frances Perkins' early life and career trajectory. Born in Boston in 1880 and raised in Worcester, Perkins attended Mount Holyoke College, where she later became the class president (04:02). Transitioning from a high school teacher to a dedicated social and economic activist, Perkins volunteered at Hull House, which catalyzed her lifelong commitment to labor reforms and social justice (05:16).
Frances Perkins' Role in the New Deal and Labor Reforms
Perkins' appointment as the U.S. Secretary of Labor marked a historic milestone as she became the first woman to serve in a U.S. Cabinet position (07:11). Graham emphasizes Perkins' instrumental role in shaping the New Deal, highlighting her efforts in labor reforms that have left lasting impacts, such as the eradication of child labor (17:02).
Notable Quote:
"Francis Perkins was not a rank and file labor union organizer leader like many previous Secretaries of Labor at that point. When Franklin D. Roosevelt assembled his cabinet, he made her the US Secretary of Labor, which was a big deal because it was the first time a woman had been a cabinet secretary." – Rebecca Brenner Graham [07:11]
Immigration Policy and Refugee Assistance During WWII
The heart of Graham's book delves into Perkins' compassionate approach to immigration during a tumultuous period. Tasked with overseeing immigration within the Department of Labor, Perkins streamlined a previously chaotic and bureaucratic system, advocating for humane treatment of refugees fleeing Nazi Germany (17:02).
Notable Quote:
"She and her Commissioner of immigration, Daniel McCormick, they called it compassion, and they called it humanity. So those were the priorities that she brought to the Department of Labor's handling of immigration." – Rebecca Brenner Graham [18:12]
Graham recounts specific instances where Perkins personally intervened to aid individuals seeking asylum, navigating discriminatory laws to facilitate their entry into the United States (32:28).
Challenges and Misogyny Faced
Perkins' trailblazing role was not without its hurdles. Graham discusses the significant misogyny and anti-Semitic conspiracy theories targeted at Perkins, particularly during the backlash against the New Deal. These attacks aimed to delegitimize her influence and were compounded by the gender biases of the era (22:15).
Notable Quote:
"There was a conspiracy theory in 1939 accusing her of being Jewish, which she was not. She was a practicing Episcopalian. And it was not only because of her efforts on behalf of Jewish refugees, but also because American society didn't like Jewish people." – Rebecca Brenner Graham [22:15]
Legacy and Impact
Despite the opposition, Perkins' legacy is profound. Her policies laid the groundwork for modern labor laws and immigration procedures that continue to protect and support vulnerable populations today. Graham underscores the importance of recognizing Perkins' righteousness and moral compass, which guided her decisions in the male-dominated political landscape of her time (38:40).
Notable Quote:
"She often made decisions based on is it the right thing to do? ... She was a moralist and she did things because she believed it was right." – Rebecca Brenner Graham [38:40]
Conclusion
Sharon McMahon and Rebecca Brenner Graham conclude the episode by reflecting on the enduring significance of Frances Perkins' work. Graham expresses her hope that readers will appreciate both Perkins' relentless efforts to aid those in need and the substantial obstacles she overcame. The conversation serves as a tribute to a woman whose dedication and integrity not only shaped her era but also continue to influence contemporary policies and societal values (40:27).
Notable Quote:
"She was a professional whose innovative policies and solutions shaped real people's daily lives. Her ideas pushed against the limits and tested the boundaries of the society where they took place." – Sharon McMahon [40:27]
Final Thoughts
"Dear Miss Perkins" sheds light on the extraordinary contributions of Frances Perkins, emphasizing her role as a catalyst for change in American history. Through Rebecca Brenner Graham's insightful narrative, listeners gain a deeper understanding of Perkins' unwavering commitment to social justice and her enduring legacy.
You can purchase "Dear Miss Perkins" by Rebecca Brenner Graham from major bookstores or visit bookshop.org to support independent bookshops.