Whereas , Friends, family members, health care providers, workplace, and society all affect a woman's decision to breastfeed as well as her ability to continue breastfeeding; and,

Whereas , Encouraging mothers to breastfeed their infants and encouraging communities to support breastfeeding are important steps in health promotion in Michigan; and,

Whereas , The Michigan Department of Community Health and the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Program join a worldwide campaign every August to raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding for optimal infant and maternal health, as well as the social and economic benefits it provides to the family and society; and,

Whereas , Breastfeeding Awareness Month is an opportunity for government organizations to join forces with families, health care providers, employers, and the greater community to encourage promotion, protection, and support for breastfeeding; and,

Whereas , Michigan is committed to increasing public support and acceptance of breastfeeding; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim August 2008 as Breastfeeding Awareness Month in Michigan.