Whereas, Each individual brings with them a part of his or her own heritage and over time each heritage becomes part of our common heritage, leading us to become a more united people; and,

Whereas, Michigan is fortunate to count among its population large numbers of citizens of numerous descents who, together, make important contributions to our economy and society through their commitment to numerous professions, commerce, family and the arts; and,

Whereas, We must foster an interest in the heritage, culture and history of all peoples and pass that understanding and knowledge on to the next generation, awakening an awareness in every American community of the quality of contributions that all types of ethnicities can bring to our modern American lifestyle as we realize that we are all Americans together; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March, 2004, as Ethnic and Cultural Heritage Month in Michigan.