LANSING, MI - On February 1, 2025, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month, honoring the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans throughout Michigan.  

“This month, we honor the sacrifices and contributions of Black Americans who have helped move our state and country forward,” said Governor Whitmer. “Black Michiganders have played a critical role in shaping our history, our communities, and our economy. This month, let’s reflect, celebrate, and recommit ourselves to building a Michigan where everyone can thrive.”  

“During Black History Month, we celebrate and honor the resilience, history, and hope of Black Americans who changed the world,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, Michigan’s first Black lieutenant governor. “We remind ourselves of our past and recommit to building on our progress and ensuring every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed, reach their full potential, and be their best self right here in Michigan. I encourage every Michigander to take time to explore Black history this month. Together, we will continue to dismantle barriers, expand opportunity, and honor the legacy of those who came before us.” 

“Black History is the root of all historical and anthropological studies. In the study of Black people, you will find the history of the human family.”  Mayor Marcus Muhammad, City of Benton Harbor. 

"On behalf of the Macomb County Branch of the NAACP, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for Governor Whitmer’s Proclamation recognizing February 2025 as Black History Month in the State of Michigan,” said London Bell, Macomb County Branch NAACP. “As we stand at the crossroads of injustice faced by generations of African Americans, it is imperative that we dedicate this month to honor the unique lived experiences and contributions of African Americans, as well as reflect on our resilience and our imprint on American culture and society."  

“The Floyd Skinner Bar Association is honored to join the Grand Rapids Bar Association and the State Bar of Michigan in celebrating Black History Month,” said Alex Thibodeau and the Floyd Skinner Bar Association. “This month is a time to reflect on the legacy of resilience, excellence, and contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our society, including in the legal profession. Black history is the story of all Americans, as it chronicles the obstacles, struggles, and accomplishments of our ancestors, as well as the dreams of all of us who continue to fight for a more perfect union. As we commemorate this history, we are reminded of the work still to be done to achieve equity and justice for all. We remain committed to advancing diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity within the legal community and beyond.” 

During this month, Michiganders are invited to honor the courage, achievements, and lasting contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our state and nation. Michigan is home to many landmarks that honor this legacy, such as the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, which houses one of the world’s largest collections dedicated to African American history. The Motown Museum in Detroit, which preserves the history of Motown’s global impact, and the Detroit Institute of Arts, which showcases work by renowned Black artists, including Tiff Massey’s celebrated installation of “7 Mile + Livernois”. Black History Month is also a time to reflect upon our continued commitment to equity, freedom, and progress as we continue to build a more inclusive future. 

Since day one, Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist have been focused on delivering for the Black community by getting things done on the issues that make a real difference in people’s lives.  

Building the most inclusive government in Michigan history 

• Appointed more than 535 Black Michiganders to boards, commissions, and full-time positions. More than 60% of appointees are women or people of color.  

• 28, or one-third, of judicial appointees are Black, including the first Black woman on the Michigan Supreme Court.  

• Created the Black Leadership Advisory Council to help tackle racial inequity in Michigan. 

• Vetoed bills that would have disenfranchised and intimidated voters. 

• Signed legislation to make Juneteenth a state holiday. 

• Quintupled the Michigan Working Families Tax Credit to give over 700,000 working families an average tax refund of $3,150.

• Signed a budget providing free breakfast and lunch to all of Michigan’s 1.4 million public school students savings parents $850 per year.  

• Rolled back the retirement tax to save 500,000 households an average of $1,000 a year.  

• Signed the bipartisan CROWN Act, banning hair discrimination. 

• Signed bipartisan bill recognizing May 2 as Negro Leagues Day in Michigan. 

To view the proclamation, click here.