A Black History Month Tribute to My Grandfather Graham Leo. Downey

Transcending The Racial Divide

My grandfather Graham Leo Downey is part of a family that included seven brothers, three sisters and a foster sister. He was born in Halifax in 1939 to George Alexander Downey and Leotra (Tomlinson).  He attended Joseph Howe Elementary School, and he considers himself a graduate of the “school of hard knocks”.

In 1974, Alderman Graham Downey was elected in Ward 3, as the first black Alderman in Halifax’s 262 year history. He served for 22 years including a term as the first African Canadian Deputy Mayor of Halifax and continued with the newly formed HRM as a councillor in District 12 for another 4 years. His unprecedented record of 8 consecutive Civic election victories was based on a platform of providing basic needs such as upgraded and affordable housing, street lighting, cleaner neighbourhoods, better schools, and community recreation facilities. Over his political career, he served on continuous basis longer than any other elected official to date. Some of his  honours include the Queen’s Jubilee Medal and the Union of NS Municipality Citation.

As a young man, Graham was an active participant in the Halifax Coloured Citizens Improvement League under the mentorship of Mr. B.A Husbands. He enjoyed after school and evening programs at sports facilities that had previously been closed to the public. As an adult, Mr. Downey coached bantam and midget baseball teams in which he groomed young ball players, White and Black, playing with a common goal. After working over 21 years as a stage designer for CBHT television and 20 years as co-owner of the Arrows Social Club in Halifax, Mr. Downey now lives in retirement with his wife of 48 years, Ardith (Hamilton). The Downey’s have six children.

Bio Summary Written By: William P. Oliver Wall of Fame Committee

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This is a remarkable story of dedication, perseverance and racial harmony at a time when racial intolerance and social upheaval dominated the North American landscape.
Comprised of an equal number of black (African Canadian) and white players, they transcended racial barriers and dominated junior baseball in the summer of 1962, but more importantly dedicated themselves to succeeding generations of youth, earning the respect and support of their community and province. This is a story of that Hall of Fame team and each of its members.