The First Filmed Biography of Frances Perkins.

You are invited to attend a reception and pre-premiere screening of SUMMONED on Thursday, October 24, 2019.  The event will take place at USM’s Hannaford Hall, 88 Bedford Street.  The reception starts at 5:30 pm.  The event is free to the public.

SUMMONED is the first film biography of Frances Perkins, one of the most important women in US history.

The Reception starts at 5:30 pm.  At 6:15, there will be Reception Remarks and at 7:00 pm, the viewing of the film will begin.  There is a cash bar.  Following the viewing of the film, there will be a Q&A with the producer.

In March of 2020, an election year energized by women candidates and the centennial celebration of Women’s Suffrage, American Public Television will premiere the story of the first women cabinet member.  Frances Perkins, Secretary of Labor under FDR (1933-1945) was the driving force behind Social Security, the 40-hour work week, the 8-hour work day, unemployment insurance and the minimum wage.  She also wanted to include a national health insurance and was disappointed when the American Medical Association was opposed to its inclusion.  It is not known at this time, why it was opposed to that inclusion.

Before the broadcast, we invite you to join producer Mick Couette of South Hill Films for the first east coast screening and discussion, preceded by a Reception and cash bar to celebrate civic leadership by Maine women.

If you are interested in learning more about Frances Perkins, please read THE WOMEN BEHIND THE NEW DEAL,  by Kirstin Downey,  The paperback edition can be purchased from local bookstores for $18.00. It explains her Newcastle, connection as well.  It’s so readable and this blogger is reading it for the second time.

Pre-registration is required at 207 – 563-3374 or at info@FrancesPerkinsCenter.org.