April 24-30, 2022: National Infertility Awareness Week

WHEREAS, according to the CDC, one in eight couples have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy; and,

WHEREAS, defined by the World Health Organization and American Medical Association, infertility is a disease that affects women and men equally and does not discriminate based on race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic level; and,

WHEREAS, we recognize that the LGBTQ+ community also faces challenges when building their families; and,

WHEREAS, we affirm that all people challenged in their family building journey should have access to all family building options, including adoption and medical treatment, such as in vitro fertilization and third-party reproduction; and,

WHEREAS, we recognize that cost and lack of insurance coverage are barriers for many in Michigan to accessing the family building option they need; and,

WHEREAS, the state of Michigan, in raising awareness of infertility and the barriers faced by the family building community, encourages members of the community health care professionals and organizations to join in taking action to remove these barriers; and,

WHEREAS, the state of Michigan joins the National Infertility Association, dedicated volunteers, health care professionals, and members of the infertility and family building community by participating in this promotion; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 24-30, 2022 as National Infertility Awareness Week in Michigan.