February 25, 2019: Michigan Is A Welcoming State

MICHIGAN IS A WELCOMING STATE

WHEREAS, Michigan has a long history of welcoming all those seeking refuge and a better life, from slaves seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad, to refugees fleeing violence and persecution; and,

WHEREAS, Newcomers from around the world have helped build the shared prosperity of our state, from the auto factories of Detroit, to the fruit ridge of West Michigan, to the copper mines of the Upper Peninsula; and,

WHEREAS, Michiganders know that we are stronger when we work together and our state’s success has been the product of our capacity to welcome newcomers. Regardless of where you were born or what you look like, we share the values of diversity, hard work, fairness, opportunity, and building bridges across difference; and,

WHEREAS, Immigrants and refugees are respected members of communities across the state, contributing socially, culturally, economically, and civically to the fabric of our society; and,

WHEREAS, Nearly 7 percent of Michiganders are immigrants and almost 1 in 12 residents is a native-born U.S. citizen with at least one immigrant parent; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan will thrive by creating communities that grow and attract a competitive workforce that is inclusive and welcoming to all; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan law prohibits discrimination in employment, education, housing, public accommodations, and public service on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status, or marital status; and,

WHEREAS, Immigrants are valued members of our communities deserving of equal protection by state and local law enforcement, and to maintain public trust we should build bridges between our law enforcement and immigrant communities; and,

WHEREAS, Michiganders believe in protecting those who are vulnerable and seeking refuge, and the separation of families does not reflect our Michigan values; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan must remain a welcoming, inclusive, and compassionate place for all residents, including immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim on Monday, February 25, 2019, MICHIGAN IS A WELCOMING STATE