WHEREAS, Michigan’s unique automotive heritage is preserved and promoted by the MotorCities National Heritage Area Partnership, part of the National Heritage Area System of the National Park Service; and
WHEREAS, for over 25 years, MotorCities National Heritage Area has told the stories of how Michigan “put the world on wheels” throughout a region of 10,000 square miles that includes 16 Michigan counties with a population of more than 6 million people; and,
WHEREAS, MotorCities National Heritage Area is the state’s only National Heritage Area and uses these stories to advance the state culturally and economically; and,
WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area is the largest concentration of auto-related sites, attractions, and events in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year; and,
WHEREAS, the MotorCities National Heritage Area annually generates nearly $490 million in economic impact and supports $40 million in tax revenue; and generates over 5,300 jobs; and,
WHEREAS, on this date, I encourage residents to join me in commemorating a Michigan industry deeply woven into our state’s past, present, and future;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 23, 2024, as Michigan Auto Heritage Day.