October 30, 2019: Auto Heritage Day

WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area is one of 55 National Heritage Areas around the country and a nonprofit affiliate of the National Park Service dedicated to the preservation and promotion of automotive and labor history; and,  

WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area, authorized by Congress and signed by President Bill Clinton on November 6, 1998, is the only National Heritage Area within the state of Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area has been inspiring residents and visitors alike for more than 20 years with an appreciation of how the automobile changed the world; and,

WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area has awarded more than 300 grants worth $1.5 million over two decades for projects that preserve, promote, and interpret automotive history and how the industry has impacted Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, every year, the MotorCities National Heritage Area generates $410.4 million in economic impact, supports 4,560 jobs statewide, and generates $35.4 million in tax revenue; and,

WHEREAS, on this date, the MotorCities National Heritage Area will award its annual Awards of Excellence inside the State Capitol, recognizing achievement in revitalization, education, and tourism; and,

WHEREAS, on this date, I encourage residents to join with me in commemorating a Michigan industry deeply woven into Michigan’s past, present, and future;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 30, 2019, as Auto Heritage Day in Michigan.