March 10, 2021: COVID-19 Memorial Day

WHEREAS, on March 10, 2020 the first two presumed positive cases of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, otherwise known as the novel Coronavirus or COVID-19, were confirmed in the state of Michigan; and,  

 

WHEREAS, since then, COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on countless lives, our communities, and our economy; and,

 

WHEREAS, it has led to unprecedented challenges in every part of our lives and has disrupted the way we work, learn, and interact with our communities; and,

 

WHEREAS, COVID-19 has taken the lives of more than 15,000 Michiganders who are also mothers, daughters, fathers, sons, wives, husbands, friends, coworkers, and neighbors; and,

 

WHEREAS, we remember and honor each of these individuals who  left an unfillable void in the lives of those close to them as well as a hole in the fabric of our state; and,

 

WHEREAS, we mourn with our fellow Michiganders who have lost their loved ones, because we can all relate to having someone who we love dearly, who always offers a hand to us, who stays by our side, and who gives us hope in times of struggle; and,

 

WHEREAS, COVID-19 has disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minorities, with

African Americans representing a 70% higher death rate from the virus compared to white Michiganders; and,

 

WHEREAS, as we observe COVID-19 Memorial Day, we pay tribute to each one of the innocent lives lost throughout our state and extend our deepest condolences, sympathy, and care to those who have had to say goodbye to their loved ones as a result of this devastating virus; and,

 

WHEREAS, we must also acknowledge that the pandemic is not over and is continuing to threaten lives in every corner of our state, and we must all continue to do our part to protect ourselves and our loved ones and end the pandemic together;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 10, 2021, as COVID-19 Memorial Day in Michigan.