John,

The celebration of Black History Month has been important to appreciating and recognizing the crucial roles African Americans have played in our history.

This year’s theme, “African Americans and the Vote,” has been selected to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the 15th amendment which granted black men the right to vote, and emphasizes that the voting rights of our citizens should not be denied in any state.

During this month, we should take time to recognize and celebrate African Americans’ many contributions and their sacrifice and bravery on their journey to justice in our nation.

We must work together to identify, develop, and promote solutions to further achieve equity in our great state of Michigan.

-Gretchen