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What role did women play in The New Deal and its implementation?

Leandra Mandal

Women played a significant role in The New Deal and its implementation. However, their contributions have often been overlooked and minimized in historical accounts.
During the Great Depression, women were hit hard, as their work was often the first to be cut and they were frequently paid less than men. The New Deal sought to address these inequalities and provide assistance to women who were struggling financially.
One of the ways this was accomplished was through the establishment of the National Youth Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps, which provided jobs for both men and women. These programs helped many women become financially independent while contributing to society in meaningful ways.
In addition, women were instrumental in advocating for social programs such as the Social Security Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act, which aimed to improve working conditions and provide a safety net for vulnerable populations.
Despite these significant contributions, women were often excluded from the decision-making process and were paid less than their male counterparts. It wasn't until the 1960s that women's voices and perspectives began to be taken more seriously in the political arena.

Some additional questions to consider include:

- How did race intersect with gender in terms of access to New Deal programs and benefits?
- What specific roles did women of color play in advocating for New Deal reforms?
- What were some of the challenges women faced in gaining political power and influence during this time period?