Labor Hall of Fame Honoree (2005)

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Peter J. Brennan 1918-1996 "We built colleges, hospitals, roads, schools, recreation facilities. We built sewer systems, libraries, all things connected to the life of man." — Peter J. Brennan

A lifelong, passionate advocate for workers, Peter Brennan was also known as a staunch patriot. As Secretary of Labor in the Nixon Administration from 1973-75, he fought hard for adoption of new laws to protect workers' pensions. He also reinvigorated the Federal Committee on Apprenticeship and helped improve minority recruitment into the skilled building trades. During his tenure, employment protections for Americans with disabilities were greatly expanded. Peter Brennan also served proudly as President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. He continued to contribute to his community through the United Fund of Greater New York, the Police Athletic League, and the United Community Funds and Councils of America.