Whereas, American women of every race, class and ethnic background have made historical contributions to the growth and strength of our nation in countless ways; and,

Whereas, American women have played and continue to play critical economic, cultural and social roles by entering and becoming a significant portion of the labor force; and,

Whereas, American women have been leaders not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, and the civil rights movement to name a few; and,

Whereas, We can find inspiration in the women who have broken social and professional barriers in pursuit of their dreams; and,

Whereas, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, and she inspired generations of women to follow their dreams; and,

Whereas, Harriet Tubman fought racial injustice and opened doors for more Americans to participate fully in our society; and,

Whereas, Despite these contributions, the role of American women in history has been overlooked in literature and the teaching and study of American history;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2009 Women's History Month in Michigan. I encourage all citizens to reflect on what this day means and to remember that with diligence, determination and the courage to dream, women and all Americans can achieve great things.