2023 House Resolution 111

Whereas, 2.6 million Michiganians are age 60 or older, equating to one of every four citizens being an older adult as defined by the Older Americans Act. There are more older adults in the state than children in Pre-K through twelve schools; and

Whereas, Ten thousand Americans celebrate their 65th birthday every day and become eligible for Medicare; and

Whereas, Older Michiganians are critical to Michigan’s economy, workforce, educational system, faith-based institutions, charitable organizations, and institutions of government; and

Whereas, Many amongst them, were born just as the Great Depression was ending and experienced a childhood defined by the trauma of a World War. They fought in Korea and Vietnam to help stop the spread of Communism and protect the principles of democracy around the world. They raised their own children under the constant threat of the Cold War, led our state into the 21st century, advocated for civil rights, and have now lived through the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic; and

Whereas, Older adults deserve our utmost respect and gratitude for their many contributions to our communities. Older citizens play vital leadership, volunteer, and mentoring roles all across our great state. Their lifetime contributions are immense and immeasurable in sum, while also being deeply personal, impactful, and meaningful on an individual basis; and

Whereas, Older adults are one of our state’s greatest resources for understanding our past and improving our future. They are truly a foundation upon which we can build a better tomorrow; and

Whereas, This invaluable group of citizens is being honored and admired for their many years of service in communities large and small across the entire state of Michigan. They have been an indispensable source of knowledge and inspiration throughout the years; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 17, 2023, as Older Michiganians Day in the state of Michigan. We honor our state’s population of older citizens.