Whereas, Latinos have a prevalence rate of 142 persons living with HIV per 100,000 persons, compared to 63 per 100,000 for whites; and,

Whereas, Even with advancements in medicine and technology as well as accessible to HIV tests, Latinos still continue to get tested later in their illness than whites; and,

Whereas, Misconceptions about how HIV is transmitted contributes to the increasing rate of new HIV diagnosis within the Latino community, which is why it is critical to raise awareness of the potential for HIV infection; and,

Whereas, National Latino AIDS Awareness Day is intended to promote effective HIV education and prevention efforts in the Latino community that are culturally and linguistically appropriate, and to support efforts to overcome the stigma and discrimination that often accompany the disease; and,

Whereas, National Latino AIDS Awareness Day provides an opportunity to increase awareness, support those living with HIV, commemorate those we have lost and bring leaders together to promote greater services and community involvement in fighting this pandemic; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Department of Community Health, has a long standing commitment to prevent the spread of HIV infections in all communities and ensuring the provision of compassionate care to those infected;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2009, Latino AIDS Awareness Day in Michigan.  I call upon the people of Michigan to observe this day with appropriate programs, activities and ceremonies supporting this year's theme, "United We Can: stop HIV and prevent AIDS.  "Para detener el VIH y prevenir el SIDA: Unidos Podemos."