May 10, 2023: Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day

WHEREAS, The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander community is among the fastest-growing and most diverse racial groups in the United States, growing 41.81% since 2010 and making remarkable economic, political, and social contributions to our state; and,

WHEREAS, approximately 25% of Americans experience and are diagnosed with mental health conditions in a given year, impacting all communities, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and gender identity among other factors; and,

WHEREAS, we must raise awareness about mental health, particularly within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities to destigmatize seeking help and improve access to culturally and linguistically competent community services; and,

WHEREAS, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders use mental health services at the lowest rates, due in part to stigma within the community as well as cultural and linguistic needs; and,

WHEREAS, there is a critical need to advocate for health care policies that increase accessibility of mental health services; and,

WHEREAS, raising awareness about the mental health of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities encourages professional interest in health and human services careers and fosters a diversified workforce that reflects the community;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 10, 2023, as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day in Michigan.