Whereas, Mediation has assisted people in reaching agreements and improving dialogue; and,

Whereas, The profession of mediation has helped to create a better environment in which people and groups are able to truly listen to each other and develop a deeper understanding of each other; and,

Whereas, Mediation professionals use their skills in a variety of different settings and situations as they help parties reach cooperative agreements and encourage them to seek common ground during the process of problem solving rather than victory; and,

Whereas, Mediation principles and philosophies have been emulated in collaborative problem solving among individuals, agencies and communities and result in a renewed effort for respect, common sense and accentuating the positive in every transaction and relationship; and,

Whereas, Mediation skills are crucial to our economic and social success as multiculturalism, interdependence of people and organizations, and global competition make productive negotiations and solutions of the utmost importance; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2007, as Mediation Month in Michigan.