The Michigan State University College of Engineering is teaming up with several corporate and industry partners to celebrate Women's History Month and women who became iconic leaders during World War II.
Sponsors from across Michigan are supporting Rosie the Riveter Day, a free event that will take place Thursday, March 21 at the State Capitol in Lansing. It is expected to include vehicle displays, food trucks, historical exhibits, and a rally on the capitol lawn followed by a massive group photo.
Rosie the Riveter is the name associated with women who worked in manufacturing plants and shipyards during the World War II era while men were off to fulfill military obligations.
These "Rosies" made weapons, tanks, planes and other military machines. Their efforts inspired women across the world to become leaders in the workplace and led to massive changes in work policies and regulations.
Those who attend the event are encouraged to dress like a Rosie with blue coveralls or a blue workshirt and a red bandana. The event is expected to give participants the opportunity to meet some original Rosies who supported the war effort.
For more information about Rosie the Riveter Day, visit the event's official registration page.
Registration isn't required to attend the event, but it is encouraged because organizers would like to calculate the number of attendees.
Rosie the Riveter record
The largest gathering of people dressed as Rosie the Riveter took place Sept. 14, 2017 in Ypsilanti, Mich., according to the Guiness Book of World records.
An event organized by the Yankee Air Museum drew 3,734 participants to Eastern Michigan University's Convocation Center.
Last year's Rosie the Riveter Day event in Lansing - the first of its kind in the capital city - drew more than 700 participants. Organizers have a goal of attracting at least 1,000 this year.
Written by Eric Lacy, lacyeric@msu.edu. See more at the Engineering Media and Public Relations page.