American Federation of Teachers President Edward J. McElroy
On Death of Utah AFL-CIO President Ed Mayne

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Ed Mayne was a man of great integrity and strong convictions. He enhanced the profile and influence of Utah’s Democratic party and its labor movement, in a state where both institutions are in the minority. He earned the gratitude of those on whose behalf he fought, and the respect even of those with whom he sometimes clashed. 

Years ago, Ed gave the AFT a forum and a seat at labor’s table, even though we were a relatively small union in Utah. He stood with us from then on. Just this month, with Ed’s invaluable assistance, Utah voters defeated a proposal that would have created the nation’s first universal school voucher program. Ed knew the voucher proposal was wrong, and he knew how to use the Democratic process to uphold support for public schools and institutions. 

Ed was a tireless and effective advocate for Utah’s working families, the disenfranchised and the less fortunate. Utah’s growing labor movement is a significant part of his enduring legacy. Ed’s many friends and colleagues can honor his memory by working to advance the principles in which he so passionately believed. We will miss him greatly. 

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