[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 18 (Tuesday, February 2, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E111]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        TRIBUTE TO FLORA WALKER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 2, 1999

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I take great pride in rising today to 
recognize Flora Walker, past President of AFSCME Council 25, who 
retired on November 16, 1998. Her friends and colleagues will honor her 
with a reception on January 29, 1999.
  Through the years, Flora Walker has been a fighter. Her tireless 
efforts have improved the lives of the working families throughout 
Southeastern Michigan. flora is a woman who has dedicated her life to 
securing dignity and respect for all people. She has been a champion of 
civil rights and civil liberties, and has helped create a stronger, 
more united community. Her strong leadership and vision were recognized 
by her colleagues and she was chosen to serve in a distinguished list 
of elected positions.
  Flora Walker began her career with the AFSCME Council 25 Executive 
Board that continued for twenty-four years. Her first elected position 
was as a representative. She went on to serve as delegate to one 
special and two regular Council 25 Conventions. Her tenure as president 
began in 1992 during a time of crisis for the Council. Under her 
guidance, it has became a strong, united, statewide council continuing 
the work begun by the Founding Convention in 1978.
  During her six years as President, many new innovative programs were 
implemented. Flora was instrumental in overhauling the entire Council 
25 legal operation, providing union members with an unprecedented level 
of service. The arbitration department was streamlined, initiating a 
process of audits and increasing the number of advocates. She has also 
served as an AFSCME International Vice President from Michigan. Flora 
had a demanding schedule, but she would never hesitate to go to the 
bargaining table with her members if needed.
  Flora is not only an active union leader, but a community leader as 
well. She has received both the Champion of Hope Award from the 
National Kidney Foundation and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award. 
She was recognized by the University of Michigan during a Black Labor 
History Celebration. She has been honored for her active involvement in 
the community, in the political arena, and in service and charitable 
projects.
  Few people have given to their community with the vision and 
commitment that Flora Walker has given to hers. She is a person who has 
inspired the admiration of many. I am sure her colleagues will miss the 
famous Walker hug. I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations 
to Flora on her very distinguished career and I wish her and her family 
all of the best.

                          ____________________