Whereas, Transgender Day of Remembrance was set aside to memorialize those who were killed due to transgender hatred or prejudice; and,

Whereas, Raising public awareness of hate crimes against transgender people, Transgender Day of Remembrance serves as a way to publicly mourn and recognize more than 300 individuals around the world who, since 1970, lost their lives and who might otherwise be forgotten; and,

Whereas, Transgender people, who often are undeservedly maligned and misunderstood, contribute greatly to our state's rich diversity and prosperity; and,

Whereas, The transgender community continues to have a voice in Michigan with the creation of Transgender Michigan in 1997 by Rachel Crandall, and it now encompasses virtually all regions of Michigan;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 20, 2009, Transgender Day of Remembrance in Michigan. In honor of the citizens that have lost their lives due to hate crimes, 150 ceremonies will be held simultaneously around the world on November 20, 2009.