LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II recognized the beginning of Black History Month with a proclamation honoring the contributions of Black Americans to the progress of both Michigan and the United States.
“This month, let’s come together to celebrate Black Americans and Black history,” said Governor Whitmer. “Black history is American history, and we must recommit ourselves to learning from our past to build a brighter shared future. Our state has played host to so much Black history, driven by countless Black Michiganders who moved our nation closer to its highest ideals. From civil rights icons and Motown legends to policymakers and action-takers including Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and House Speaker Joe Tate, Michigan is stronger because of Black Michiganders. This month, let’s recognize their contributions and celebrate Black history as we continue building a more just and equitable Michigan where anyone can make it.”
“This year’s Black History Month is an opportunity to give credit to the Black Michiganders who have molded culture and history with their talent and tenacity,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “I encourage every Michigander to spend time exploring the rich Black history in our state and find inspiration for how you can contribute to our collective pride, prosperity, and well-being in an inclusive way. We each have a role to play to live up to values of equality, justice, and unity that define us as Michiganders. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and I will continue striving towards a more just, equitable future for all that activates the potential that exists in current and future generations of Black Michiganders.”
During this month, Michiganders are encouraged to celebrate Black Americans’ bravery and vital contributions to our state and the United States. Michigan is home to several sites and artifacts such as the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in downtown Detroit, the Rosa Parks Bus at the Henry Ford Museum, and the Motown Museum which showcase Black history in our local communities. Black History Month is also a time to reflect upon our continued commitment to freedom, progress, and equity in our communities.
Since day one, Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist have made it a priority to amplify Black voices and generate real and lasting change. Governor Whitmer has appointed more than 535 Black Michiganders to boards, commissions, and full-time positions, and 29, or one-third, of judicial appointees are Black, including the first Black woman on the Michigan Supreme Court. Additionally, the governor created the Black Leadership Advisory Council to tackle racial inequity in Michigan, and last June, Governor Whitmer signed the CROWN act banning hair discrimination.
To view the proclamation, click here.
