Who do you think Perkins’ role models were? Do you have anyone you consider your role model?
The author suggests that Perkins’ grandmother was a valued woman in her life as Perkins often references advice her Gma would give. I’ve had a few influential women in my life at various times. They were older and had a great sense of self and purpose. True gems.
I feel certain that Florence Kelley and Jane Addams were important role models for her. I also imagine that so many women involved in voting rights for women, abolishing child labor, reducing poverty, improving work place safety, and decreasing infant mortality rates influenced her.
I agree with NanK and Patricia and would add Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary Harriman Rumsey who have significant roles in the book.
Perkins was a ground breaker and had few real role models, I guess Florence Kelley. She was able to become the leader that she was because of the support from women, especially Rumsey, who was able to gain her entree to important political figures and gave her financial support. So rather than role models, she had strong female supporters. They saw her strength and brilliance and relied on her to advance women’s roles. When I started work there were few women with families in professional roles; especially if middle class, women often stopped work for a time to raise children. The support of two women senior leaders encouraged me, and supported me through various pregnancies, and life crises. However, they never stopped pushing me on my work.
I think I agree. Now that you mention the grandmother, I remembered how much I appreciated the strength of my grandmother who was a true feminist. Though she had 8 children, didn’t work, fell more into the Ramsey life (though not quite as privileged). However, she showed me strength and that your family didn’t have to require all your attention.