May 9, 2021: Mother's Day

 

WHEREAS, since 1914, Mother's Day has been annually celebrated in the United States on the second Sunday of May to celebrate motherhood and appreciate mothers and mother figures; and,

 

WHEREAS, whether they become mothers through birth, adoption, foster care, or other means, mothers play a critical role in the development of a child with their unconditional and selfless love, courage, and compassion; and,
 

WHEREAS, throughout a child's lifetime, mothers continue to be an influential mentor, caregiver, and educator in preparing them for the challenges of adulthood and providing them with support, encouragement, and resources; and,

 

WHEREAS, despite their selflessness and important responsibilities, mothers continue to face major challenges including risks during pregnancy and childbirth especially in underdeveloped communities, violence against women, inequality in education and at work, and lack of quality childcare centers; and,

 

WHEREAS, the unprecedented and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has only increased the responsibilities and difficult choices mothers must make about their roles, families, and careers; and,

 

WHEREAS, it is important to provide mothers with the support they need through paid maternity leave, sick leave, accommodations for employees who are pregnant, quality health care, affordable child care, flexibility at work, and equal pay; and,  

 

WHEREAS, during this day, we should celebrate biological moms, adoptive moms, foster moms, single moms, grandmothers, and godmothers everywhere, take time to reach out and remind our mother figures of the roles they play in our lives, send them a card, gift, or flowers, and appreciate the many sacrifices and contributions they make to enrich our lives; and,

 

WHEREAS, we should also take time to remember those who have lost their mother or a woman regarded as a source of nurturing and support, as well as mothers who have lost their children;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2021 as Mother's Day in Michigan.