November 21, 2024: Children's Grief Awareness Day

WHEREAS, National Children’s Grief Awareness Day is recognized across the county on the third Thursday of November to raise awareness about the impact that the death of a loved one has on a child’s life; and,

WHEREAS, 1 in 11 children in Michigan will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the age of 18; and,

WHEREAS, an estimated 6.3 million children in the United States will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18; and,

WHEREAS, the death of a loved one is a traumatic event for a child and increases their risk of academic, relational, mental health, and behavioral challenges; and,

WHEREAS, increased awareness of the impacts surrounding childhood grief may lead to greater understanding, support, and resources in communities across Michigan: and,

WHEREAS, a day of awareness helps to support grieving children whose lives are forever altered by the heartbreak of losing a loved one; and,

WHEREAS, education on healthy coping skills, having a strong community, positive role models and peer support are essential for healthy development after bereavement; and,

WHEREAS, those children and their families require support and understanding as they navigate their grief and loss; and,

WHEREAS, promoting awareness of the challenges faced by those children and their families encourages the community to be more supportive of bereaved children and their unique experiences;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 21, 2024, as Children’s Grief Awareness Day in Michigan.