H.R. 5069: Peter J. McGuire Labor Day Landmark Act (119th Congress) Bill Summary

The Peter J. McGuire Labor Day Landmark Act is legislation aimed at designating the Peter J. McGuire Memorial and Gravesite, located in Pennsauken, New Jersey, as a National Historic Landmark. This act acknowledges the significant contributions of Peter J. McGuire to the labor movement, including the establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday. Below are the key aspects of the bill:

1. Short Title

The act is officially titled the "Peter J. McGuire Labor Day Landmark Act."

2. Findings

The legislation includes a series of findings that highlight McGuire's important role in American labor history:

McGuire helped form the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners in 1881, which became a significant labor organization.
He was elected as its first general secretary and served for 20 years.
McGuire was instrumental in the founding of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) alongside Samuel Gompers.
He advocated for the 8-hour workday and proposed the idea of Labor Day in 1882.
McGuire's gravesite has been a site of annual tributes since his death in 1906, reflecting his lasting impact on the labor movement.

3. Designation of the Memorial

The Peter J. McGuire Memorial and Gravesite will be officially designated as a National Commemorative Site. Notably:

This site is not considered a unit of the National Park System.
The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with entities for educational and interpretive programs regarding the site.
Technical and financial support may be provided to these cooperative entities.
The designation will not restrict property owners' rights concerning their property actions.

4. Historical Significance

The bill outlines the historical importance of McGuire and the memorial. It emphasizes that:

The memorial and gravesite are integral to understanding the labor movement's history in the United States.
McGuire is recognized as a figure of national significance and importance in labor history.
The memorial reflects a high degree of integrity in design and craftsmanship, qualifying it for historical designation.

5. Commemorative Activities

Annual ceremonies have taken place at the site, honoring McGuire’s legacy, which continues to attract labor and political leaders each year. The memorial includes inscriptions and statues that symbolize labor themes and serve as a reminder of McGuire’s contributions.