Whereas, Sexual assault is an intolerable violent crime with public health implications for every person in the United States; and,

Whereas, Every two minutes and a half, a person is raped in this nation; and,

Whereas, Over 5,516 forcible rapes or attempted rapes were reported to law enforcement during the year 2004 in the State of Michigan and it is estimated less than half of all sexual assaults are reported to police; and,

Whereas, The State of Michigan has a proud tradition of strong legislation intended to reduce the incidence of sexual assault; and,

Whereas, Elimination of sexual assault must be achieved through cooperation of individuals, organizations, and communities; and

Whereas, Sexual Assault Awareness Month provides an excellent opportunity for citizens to learn more about sexual assault and to show support for the numerous organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy, services, and assistance to sexual assault survivors; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence is dedicated to the empowerment of Michigan’s domestic and sexual assault survivors, and to the elimination of all domestic and sexual violence in our state; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2006, as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Michigan