President Joe Biden set to sign a proclamation Monday that will create a national monument honoring Frances Perkinsthe first woman appointed to a presidential cabinet.

Perkins, who served as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D.Rooseveltplayed a critical role in shaping the New Deal and establishing labor protections in the United States.

Why is Frances Perkins’ legacy being honored now?

Biden’s decision to honor Perkins comes nearly 60 years after his death in 1965. Perkins was a driving force behind landmark policies including the Social Security Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act and the National on labor relations.

These laws provided crucial safeguards for workers and were central to FDR’s New Deal initiatives during World War II. Great Depression. His advocacy also laid the groundwork for workers’ rights to organize and participate in collective bargaining.

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haalandwho will join Biden in making the announcement, praised Perkins’ efforts.

“Frances Perkins accepted the position as the first female Cabinet member only after President Franklin D. Roosevelt agreed to support her goals of improving working conditions for all,” Haaland said. “She worked tirelessly to bring them to fruition and she set a standard of excellence that is a beacon for all of us who serve.”

Where will the monument be located?

The national monument will be erected in Perkins’ hometown of Newcastle, Maine, where she had deep family roots.

The monument will be located on the family property and managed by the National Park Service. This site has significant historical value, since Perkins is also buried there.

Biden is expected to visit US Department of Labor Monday to officially announce the creation of the monument. He will be joined by Haaland, Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, other cabinet members and labor and women’s rights leaders for the signing.

How does this fit into Biden’s legacy?

The proclamation is a key part of Biden’s efforts to highlight his legacy as a supporter of women’s rights and labor rights, especially as his presidency draws to a close. With just five weeks left in his term, Biden will likely take the opportunity to reflect on Perkins’ influence and his administration’s accomplishments on labor policy.

In addition to the monument, Haaland also unveiled five new national historic landmarks on Monday that honor women’s history, including the Charleston Cigar Factory in South Carolina and the Furies Collective in South Carolina. Washington, D.C..

This decision reflects Biden’s continued commitment to preserving and recognizing the essential contributions of women in American history.

This article includes reporting from the Associated Press