LANSING, MI (May 21, 2026) — As part of today’s 31st Annual Senate Memorial Day Ceremony to recognize Michigan veterans and their families, Sen. Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) introduced Senate Bill 1002, legislation that would recognize Michigan’s Rosie the Riveters — the working women of World War II who dropped out of high school to support the war effort.
More than six million American women joined the workforce during World War II, holding careers that were previously exclusive to men. Senate Bill 1002 would commemorate Michigan’s Rosies, allowing women who withdrew from high school in pursuit of wartime employment to request an honorary high school diploma or allow families of Rosies to request and receive posthumous diplomas.
“Women’s role in history is often sidelined,” said Sen. Shink. “Michigan Rosies kept our nation afloat during World War II and rarely get recognized for their hard work — not only supporting our state’s crucial manufacturing industry but also paving the way for women in the workforce today. We must highlight the voices, stories, and sacrifices of women who stepped up and honor their contributions to American history.”
“So many of the World War II ‘Rosies’ that I have met, much like the World War II Veterans themselves, did not finish high school and opted instead to participate in the war effort,” said Jeannette Gutierrez, Founder and Director of Michigan Rosies. “It was a time of great unity and togetherness in our country. The work that these women did, many of them truncating their education to do so, was essential to Victory. The Rosies at the time were focused on winning the war and bringing the boys home, but they also opened doors for women in the workplace — and we are so proud of them for all that they accomplished.”
Senate Bill 1002 now heads to the Senate Education Committee for further consideration.
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