Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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April 03, 2025
WHEREAS, exposure to environmental hazards like lead or polluted air and vulnerability to extreme temperatures or weather pose a disproportionate risk to the health of Black women and children; and,
WHEREAS, the aim of Black Maternal and Environmental Health (BMEH) Day is to raise awareness about the importance of clean air, food and water, healthy housing, safe consumer products, and overall environments related to Black maternal health; and,
WHEREAS, BMEH Day is observed on the first Thursday in April as a means to uplift Black women’s voices regarding the maternal and environmental health movement along with strengthening and producing advocates; and,
WHEREAS, BMEH Day encourages individuals and organizations to raise awareness and understanding of Black maternal and environmental health issues, seek improved health outcomes for Black expecting mothers, and commit to acts of culturally-responsive and community-driven environmental health and wellness; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan is working to improve health outcomes related to environmental hazards to ensure Black families have an equitable opportunity to achieve well-being;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 3, 2025, as Black Maternal and Environmental Health Day in Michigan.