NABTU Honors 9/11 Victims, Highlights Trades' Role in Recovery

Commemorating September 11: Reflections from the Building Trades Community

Washington, D.C. — Observing the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) President Sean McGarvey shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the significant impact of that day.

“Today, we pause to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and to honor the families, first responders, and survivors whose lives were forever changed,” McGarvey expressed in his statement. He emphasized the personal connection that the Building Trades community holds with the events of 9/11, noting their presence and contributions both during the initial crisis and the subsequent recovery phases.

Members of the Building Trades were intimately involved at the sites hit by tragedy, including Ground Zero and the Pentagon. “For the Building Trades, September 11 is personal. Our members were on those job sites before, during, and after the attacks. We lost brothers and sisters that day,” McGarvey stated. He highlighted their crucial role alongside first responders, working tirelessly to clear debris and aid in rebuilding efforts, thereby helping to restore hope and the nation’s resolve.

In commemorating this day, McGarvey reaffirmed NABTU's commitment to honoring the sacrifices made and the memories of those lost. “On this solemn anniversary, we remember that terrible day and the heroic work that followed. NABTU will never forget the lives lost, the families left behind, or the responsibility we bear to build a safer, stronger nation for generations to come.”

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Media Contact: Betsy Barrett, (202) 997-3266 | bbarrett@nabtu.org

About NABTU: North America’s Building Trades Unions is an alliance of 14 national and international unions in the building and construction industry. This coalition represents over 3 million skilled craft professionals in the United States and Canada. Annually, they invest nearly $2 billion in private-sector funding to maintain and operate more than 1,900 apprenticeship training facilities across North America, ensuring the highest standards of skill and safety. NABTU focuses on enhancing economic security and job opportunities for construction workers by supporting wage standards, fostering responsible investments, and expanding career pathways to the middle class for diverse groups, including women, communities of color, Indigenous people, veterans, and formerly incarcerated individuals. For further details, visit nabtu.org.