April 28, 2023: Suits and Sneakers Day

WHEREAS, the Coaches vs. Cancer program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches, leveraging the personal experiences, community leadership, and professional excellence of coaches nationwide to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living through year-round awareness efforts, fundraising activities, and advocacy programs; and,

WHEREAS, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people get and stay well, finding cures, and implementing public policy in partnership with its nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network; and,

WHEREAS, according to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that more than 61,910 Michiganders will be diagnosed with cancer in 2023; and,

WHEREAS, cancer patients face countless challenges associated with their diagnoses, including physical, emotional, and financial challenges daily; and,

WHEREAS, since 1993, coaches and their supporters have raised more than $140 million for the American Cancer Society to help make their services and programs available to those who need them the most; and,

WHEREAS, the Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Awareness nationwide effort united coaches across the country to wear sneakers with their game attire while coaching games  during the week of January 24 – 30, 2023, and encourages lawmakers and others to similarly wear suits and sneakers to raise awareness about the fight against cancer, share the importance of nutrition and physical activity in reducing one’s cancer risk, and promote the American Cancer Society as a place for help and support; and, 

WHEREAS, Michigan coaches have joined together with their fellow coaches nationwide, as well as thousands of volunteers for the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, to raise awareness and advocate on behalf of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers, so that one day, cancer will be eliminated as a major public health issue;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2023, as Suits and Sneakers Day in Michigan and urge all Michiganders to use this day as an opportunity to educate themselves about cancer, take proactive steps to reduce their cancer risk factors, and get appropriate screenings.