Whereas, HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is an important day to acknowledge the contribution of thousands of study volunteers, scientists and health professionals committed to finding a safe and effective vaccine; and,

Whereas, Currently an HIV vaccine does not exist and we recognize the value of developing a preventive HIV vaccine as a part of a comprehensive strategy to control the spread of HIV/AIDS; and,

Whereas, Current medical treatments have been able to provide relief for many, but not all, HIV infected persons, and because the financial expense makes care beyond the reach for many HIV infected persons, the development of a vaccine becomes even more imperative; and,

Whereas, Developing safe, effective and affordable vaccines that can prevent HIV infection in uninfected people is recognized as the best hope for ending the AIDS epidemic; and,

Whereas, Community support is essential in an effort to break down stigma and myths about HIV vaccine research; and,

Whereas, More HIV vaccines are being tested than ever before, and the number of HIV vaccine trial sites is expanding worldwide; and,

Whereas, HIV Vaccine Awareness Day is commemorated with wearing an upside-down AIDS ribbon to form a “V” to show personal awareness about HIV vaccine research; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 18, 2004, as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day in Michigan and I urge all community-based organizations, local health departments, religious communities, civic groups, concerned citizens, and others to utilize this day to learn about HIV vaccine research and be a part of making a HIV vaccine a reality.