Whereas, Michigan Indian Week is an excellent opportunity for all Michigan citizens to gain a better understanding and appreciation for people of Native American descent; and,

Whereas, Native American people have made vast contributions to our way of life and to the growth and development of this state and nation, and they also share with us their sense of tradition and reverence for nature and the environment; and,

Whereas, The State of Michigan, according to the 2000 Census, is home to more than 125,000 American Indians, ranking 9^th in the country, has the second largest American Indian population east of the Mississippi River, and has 12 federally recognized tribes; and,

Whereas, During Michigan Indian Week, numerous activities will occur throughout the state to focus attention on the many cultural and historical contributions of Michigan's Native American community; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of September 23, 2007, as Michigan Indian Week, and I encourage all citizens to recognize the vast cultural, social and economic contributions Native Americans have made to our Great Lakes State.