May 2022: Missing Persons Awareness Month

WHEREAS, nationally, it is estimated there are as many as 93,000 active missing persons cases; in Michigan, there are over 3,900 people currently reported missing to law enforcement, of which over 850 are children; and,

WHEREAS, few circumstances are more devastating to a family than the unknown whereabouts of a loved one; and,

WHEREAS, missing persons cases affect persons of every age, race, religion, social and cultural background; and,

WHEREAS, in the blink of an eye, a family’s dynamic can change drastically when they are instantly thrust into a chaos they are usually not equipped to handle; and,

WHEREAS, due in large part to the sheer volume of cases, missing persons investigations challenge law enforcement resources; and,

WHEREAS, many of the people who go missing in the United States are victims of foul play; and,

WHEREAS, in some cases, the investigation into a missing person begins when human remains are found; and,

WHEREAS, Missing Persons Awareness Month provides the families held victim by a loved one’s disappearance a chance to be recognized. It is also an important opportunity for citizens to learn more about missing persons and to show support for the numerous organizations and individuals providing advocacy efforts, services, and assistance to bring missing persons home;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2022 as Missing Persons Awareness Month in Michigan.