Whereas, While technology has improved the lives of the blind by facilitating quick access to information, no technology can replace Braille literacy; and,

Whereas, Braille is used to represent not only the alphabets of most written languages but is also used for mathematical and scientific notation and the reproduction of musical scores; and,

Whereas, Braille provides those who are blind with the power of knowledge by expanding their opportunities and equipping them with the tools necessary to make positive contributions to society; and,

Whereas, Contrary to widely believed myths, Braille is not difficult to learn, nor is reading Braille slower than regular print; and,

Whereas, Despite its efficiency, versatility and universal acceptance by the blind, the rate of Braille literacy in the United States has declined to the point where only 10 percent of children are learning to read and write in Braille; and,

Whereas, Braille literacy is the key to independence, productivity and success for blind people, as evident by the fact that 70 percent of the blind are unemployed, and 85 percent of those who can use Braille are employed; and,

Whereas, The National Federation of the Blind, the nation's oldest and largest organization of blind people and the leading advocate for Braille literacy has launched a national "Braille Readers are Leaders" campaign to promote awareness of the importance of Braille by increasing the availability of competent Braille instruction and of Braille reading materials in this country;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 26, 2009, Braille Readers are Leaders Day in Michigan to celebrate the hope, opportunity, and power that literacy in Braille provides to the blind in our state.  I encourage all citizens to recognize the importance of Braille to the lives of blind people and to assist in the efforts to increase instruction and use of Braille in Michigan.