PENNSAUKEN, NJ. – Today, Rep. Donald Norcross (D-NJ), an electrician by trade and proud union member, announced legislation to award Peter J. McGuire with the Congressional Gold Medal during the 130th Annual Peter J. McGuire Labor Day Memorial Ceremony.

Known as the ‘Father of Labor Day,’ Peter J. McGuire lived in Camden and was the founder of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and the first Secretary of the American Federation of Labor. He organized meaningful strikes that led to increased wages for workers and the establishment of the 8-hour workday. In 1882, he called for a "festive parade through the streets of [New York] city" on the first Monday of September, resulting in the nation’s first Labor Day celebration.

“With South Jersey roots, Peter J. McGuire dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of workers and revolutionized the labor movement in America. He understood the power of the American worker and transformed our country’s workforce,” said Rep. Norcross, co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “We continue to live Peter J. McGuire’s legacy every day, and it’s an honor to pay my respects to him today and introduce legislation that will recognize all his achievements by awarding him the Congressional Gold Medal.”

H.R. 9419, the Peter McGuire Congressional Gold Medal Act was introduced by Representative Donald Norcross and cosponsored by Representatives Alma Adams, Susan Wild, Linda Sanchez, Don Davis, Jan Schakowsky, Mark Pocan, Stephen Lynch, Tim Kennedy, Lori Trahan, Andrea Salinas, Nikki Budzinski, and Dan Goldman. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest awards a U.S. civilian can receive and represents national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions.

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