January 17, 2023: Day of Racial Healing

WHEREAS, we have all witnessed racialized oppression and division rising in America’s urban, rural, suburban, and tribal communities today that threatens the very core of this great country’s unity; and,

WHEREAS, just like those who came before us, it is our duty to protect the children of this country and maintain communities in which they may all be given the opportunity to succeed; and,

WHEREAS, we understand and recognize that there is a racial divide in our country and we must all work earnestly to heal the wounds created by racial, ethnic and religious bias and build an equitable and just society so that all children can thrive; and,

WHEREAS, children have the right to be provided every opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in nurturing environments that don’t violate their safety, dignity, and humanity; and,

WHEREAS, every single person has the capability to make a simple change within him or herself that can have a profound effect on an entire society; and,

WHEREAS, if we all dedicate ourselves to the principles of truth, racial healing and transformation, we can bring about the necessary changes in thinking and behavior that will propel this great country forward as a unified force where racial biases will become a thing of the past; and, 

WHEREAS, racial healing is a vital and crucial commitment to the educational, social, mental, and overall well-being of all our children; and, 

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan, in conjunction with Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT), along with others throughout the United States of America, acknowledges January 17, 2023 as the “National Day of Racial Healing,” and urge all citizens to promote racial healing and transformation in the ways that are best suited for them individually, as a means to working together to ensure the best quality of life for every child;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim January 17, 2023 as Day of Racial Healing in Michigan.