Sen. Ken Donnelly Honored Posthumously As Environmental Champion

BEACON HILL, MA – The Environmental League of Massachusetts recognized late state senator Ken Donnelly this week as an environmental champion. Donnelly was honored posthumously at the organization's annual Earth Night spring gala on June 6 at the New England Aquarium. Cindy Friedman, Donnelly's former chief of staff and one of three Democrats running to succeed him, accepted the award on his behalf.

"Ken Donnelly was both our leader and our friend. He cared deeply about the lives of ordinary citizens who needed his help," Friedman said in accepting the award. "Whether fighting for the rights of workers in the workplace or the protection of the environment, he never wavered. He spoke truth to power. That’s a legacy we need to continue."

The Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) Green Star Award was presented by former state senator Ben Downing, who hailed the leadership of his friend and colleague on behalf of working families and the environment. Donnelly was a leader on legislation to replace toxic chemicals in manufacturing and implement safer alternatives in the workplace. He was also the lead sponsor on the ELM's legislation to increase energy efficiency by placing an MPG label on homes, similar to cars.

"Ken Donnelly was a tireless leader, deeply committed to his community and the Commonwealth," ELM President George Bachrach said. "He never backed down on a fight for the common good. He was our friend and we’ll miss him."

Donnelly, an Arlington Democrat who represented the 4th Middlesex District's Arlington, Billerica, Burlington, Woburn, and parts of Lexington, died earlier this year following an eight-month battle with a brain tumor. He was 66.

Photos submitted by ELM President George Bachrach