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May 2023: Michigan Moves Month

WHEREAS, physical activity benefits our physical health and improves the quality of our lives overall; and,

WHEREAS, physical activity is a cost-effective, fun, safe, and evidence-based public health intervention to address chronic diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, as well as mental illness and substance use disorders; and,

WHEREAS, the Center for Disease Control has recognized for decades the strong role parks and green spaces play in overall health within a community; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all residents and visitors through movement to inspire and facilitate a culture of active living; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan provides over 100 public beaches, 103 state parks and recreation areas, 19 million acres of forest, and thousands of miles of trails as places where people can be physically active; and,

WHEREAS, the Michigan Fitness Foundation, the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports, the Michigan Society of Health and Physical Educators, the Michigan Fitness Club Association, state agencies, private and nonprofit organizations, and other related groups can serve to enlighten and ignite awareness for physical activity opportunities in worksites, schools, businesses, fitness facilities, and communities throughout the state; and, 

WHEREAS, in an effort to improve the health and well-being of all Michiganders, Michigan Moves Month in its second year, will promote diverse forms of human movement for persons of every ability to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle and participate in regular physical activity throughout their lifespan;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2023 as Michigan Moves Month to celebrate the physical and mental health benefits of physical activity.