Sheldon Whitehouse: “I rise today to honor my friend, J. Michael Downey, who was the president of Rhode Island's AFSCME Council 94. Mike…”

“I rise today to honor my friend, J. Michael Downey, who was the president of Rhode Island's AFSCME Council 94. Mike passed away in August, leaving behind his wife Claudette, their three children Corey, Faith, and Michael, and their spouses. He also leaves behind two siblings and nine grandchildren. Mike was born in Providence and grew up in a union household. Both his father and grandfather served in leadership roles in their local unions. After graduating from LaSalle Academy, Mike earned his master plumbing license through a 5-year apprenticeship program. Mike went on to work as a plumber at the University of Rhode Island and later as chief plumbing investigator at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. It was during Mike's time at URI that, like his father and grandfather before him, he found his passion for organized labor and advocating for the rights and well-being of workers. For more than 27 years, Mike served as president of Local 528, which represents workers at URI. Mike also served as president of AFSCME Council 94 from 2005 until his passing. Mike was an avid sports fan and loved New England's teams--the Celtics, Red Sox, and Patriots. He also enjoyed coaching youth sports and could often be found cheering in the stands at his grandkids' sporting events. Mike was a great guy, an enthusiastic leader, and a good friend in the fight. I thank him for his tireless advocacy on behalf of workers across Rhode Island. I will miss him.…”