FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

April 19, 2024  

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Gov. Whitmer Proclaims April 25 as Honolulu Blue Day Across Michigan  

LANSING, Mich.  – Today Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed April 25, 2024, as Honolulu Blue Day in Michigan, encouraging Michiganders to wear the Honolulu Blue and Silver at the first day of the 2024 NFL Draft. 

“As we bring the NFL Draft home to Detroit, I am proud to officially declare Honolulu Blue Day in Michigan," said Governor Whitmer. “Our state is home to some of the best stories in football. The Wolverines won the natty and our Lions became America’s team as they fought their way to their first NFC Championship Game in 32 years. As we kick off the NFL Draft in Detroit, I encourage every Michigander to loudly and proudly rock their Honolulu Blue. I am excited that hundreds of thousands of fans will be coming to Motown to experience draft week, and I know they will have a great time exploring the city. Let’s celebrate our teams, our city, and show the world what Michigan is all about.” 

The Detroit Lions’ team color is Honolulu Blue. This came about when the original owner George A. Richards vacationed in Hawaii and found a liking to the unique shade of the Pacific Ocean and color, thus coining this color to the team. 

“Detroit is my hometown and the greatest city in the world,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “The 2024 NFL Draft will spotlight Detroit’s dynamic culture, athletics, attractions, landmarks, and resilience as a place of endless possibility and innovation. This Draft isn’t just about football. It’s about our future. Governor Whitmer and I are proud to continue our work alongside Detroiters to grow our economy, create good-paying jobs, and build a bright future for the Motor City. We hope every Detroiter and Michigander enjoys what Detroit has to offer during the 2024 Draft. Go Lions!” 

Fans near and far will have the opportunity to visit the iconic venues of Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza, where the draft will take place to select the next generation of talent. This event will shine light on the hardworking Michiganders who put the world on wheels. Detroit is a city that has defined art, music, and culture for decades. It is the epitome of grit, embodied by the best story in the NFL—the Detroit Lions. Detroit is a special place with a powerful story that can show the world how to reimagine, rebuild, and rise. 

To view the full proclamation, click here. 

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