Few American icons are as memorable as Rosie the Riveter. With her working-class bandanna head wrap, her flexed biceps and her signature phrase, “We Can Do It,” Rosie spoke to a generation of women who knew they could make a contribution to America, regardless of what the men had to say. All historical revisionism aside, Rosie was a feminist icon of her time, and it's important to acknowledge her impact, propaganda tool or not. Long Beach City Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske presents this festival in remembrance of the can-do gal. Come meet women who worked in the Douglas Aircraft Plant during World War II, listen to the sounds of the Swing Dolls as they perform the song that launched Rosie in 1942, and see a historic exhibit of photographs and memorabilia that captures this important part of American history.
Sat., May 10, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 2008
