Dear Friend,

Today, I proclaimed June 19th as Juneteenth Celebration Day in Michigan.??

On this day, we commemorate the end of slavery, recommit ourselves to fighting for a more just and equitable Michigan, and reflect on stories of Black Michiganders who have made invaluable contributions to our state?s economy, culture, and history.

I am proud that we have declared Juneteenth a state holiday in Michigan, and I am grateful to President Biden for making it a federal holiday for all Americans nationwide. Since I took office, we have been focused on making Michigan a more equitable place by expanding opportunity and investing in communities in every region of the state.

Today, let?s reflect on our history and renew our commitment to building a state where every Michigander can thrive.

1 Year Anniversary of the Crown Act

Last June, I signed the bipartisan CROWN Act to end hair discrimination in Michigan. For too long, too many Black Michiganders have felt unfair pressure to change or straighten their hair for interviews, work, or school.

Now, Michigan legally prohibits race-based hair discrimination, or the denial of employment and educational opportunities because of hair texture or protective hairstyles. In Michigan, you should always be able to be yourself. I am proud that we took this important step forward to make our state more equitable and just.

My administration is committed to building a state where every Michigander can work, live, and raise a family. In 2020, I created the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) to identify barriers in the Black community in education, community safety, health, and business leadership. Since then, BLAC has served as an instrumental tool as we work to close racial equity gaps by establishing initiatives like the Racial Disparities Task Force and enacting policies to build a more inclusive Michigan, like the CROWN Act.

I encourage Michiganders to use this day to celebrate and learn more about Black history.

Together, we will foster a stronger sense of unity and keep getting things to build a brighter future for Michigan.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor