Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, November 16, 2000

Release #439-00

 
Contact:

Sunny Mindel / Michael Anton (212) 788-2958

MAYOR GIULIANI SIGNS BILL NAMING MANHATTAN
STREET AFTER PAUL O'DWYER

Remarks by Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani at Public Hearing on Local Laws

The final bill before me, Introductory Number 484, sponsored by Speaker Vallone and Council Members Freed and Foster, would add the name "Paul O'Dwyer Way" to Duane Street, between Broadway and Lafayette Street, in Manhattan.

Paul O'Dwyer was born on June 29, 1907 in the village of Behola in County Mayo, Ireland. He came to the United States in 1925 and studied law at St. John's University School of Law. In 1935, he founded the law firm of O'Dwyer and Bernstein. For six decades, Mr. O'Dwyer used the firm as an instrument to further individual rights and civil liberties.

Paul O'Dwyer's accomplishments and broad-based activities were many. He was a vocal early supporter of the State of Israel. In the 1940's, Paul O'Dwyer spoke before the United Nations to advocate for Israel's establishment and received an award from Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin for his contribution to the Israeli cause.

In the 1950s, he battled against the investigations of the House Committee on Un-American Activities. Later, in the 1960s, he was closely involved in the civil rights movement and was a staunch opponent of the war in Vietnam. He was also a leader of the anti-war forces at the 1968 Democratic National Convention and served as counsel for many peace activists.

Paul O'Dwyer was also a notable figure in New York City politics. In 1974, he was elected President of the New York City Council, and served in that role until 1978. After serving in several appointed positions, he returned to work at his law firm in 1991.

Sadly, Paul O'Dwyer died in 1998.

Therefore, based on his lifetime of service to others, and his great love and admiration for the City of New York, it is fitting that Duane Street, between Broadway and Lafayette Street, be named "Paul O'Dwyer Way."

For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.


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