Whereas, Supplier Diversity is a process of inclusion used by major corporations, businesses, and public entities to drive minority and women-owned business development and local economic development; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Minority Business Development Council is the direct link to assist more than 600 corporations, businesses, and public entities to do business with more than 1,900 certified African American, Hispanic American, Native American, Asian and Pacific Islander American (minority) businesses; and,

Whereas, These minority businesses have combined annual sales of more than $12 billion, and employ 30,000 people in Michigan; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim February 1, 2006, as Supplier Diversity Day in Michigan.