Whereas, Health officials estimate that 850,000 to 950,000 Americans are living with HIV and 16,371 people died because of HIV complications; and,

Whereas, According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, there are 15,500 persons living with HIV in the State of Michigan; and,

Whereas, There are an estimated 40,000 new HIV cases reported annually in the United States and 1,100 in Michigan; and,

Whereas, Community-based AIDS Service Organizations and their partners have a vision of creating a community without AIDS by preventing further transmission of HIV and by sustaining a community where people affected by HIV can live without fear, discrimination, or stigma; and,

Whereas, The eight communities of Ann Arbor, Benton Harbor/St. Joseph, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Holland, and Lansing have worked collaboratively to conduct the only statewide AIDS Walk in the United States; and,

Whereas, The creative partnerships of government, business and non-profits has begun the journey toward a healthy, AIDS free Michigan for all people; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 27-28, 2003, as AIDS Walk Michigan Weekend in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to participate in these events as a donor, walker, or corporate sponsor.