Bill Text: MI SR0036 | 2011-2012 | 96th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to commemorate the sesquicentennial of Michigan's participation in the American Civil War on behalf of the Union, democracy, freedom, and human rights.
Spectrum: Moderate Partisan Bill (Republican 10-2)
Status: (Passed) 2011-04-13 - Adopted [SR0036 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2011-SR0036-Enrolled.html
SR-36, As Adopted by Senate, April 13, 2011
Senators Kowall and Bieda offered the following resolution:
Senate Resolution No. 36.
A resolution to commemorate the sesquicentennial of Michigan’s participation in the American Civil War on behalf of the Union, democracy, freedom, and human rights.
Whereas, Michigan’s commemoration of the American Civil War occurs from April 2011 into 2015; and
Whereas, Michigan’s commemoration of the Civil War sesquicentennial is led by the Michigan Historical Commission and the Michigan Historical Center, in partnership with various groups and associations, such as the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War; and
Whereas, This commemoration preserves the vital legacy of our forbearers who fought steadfastly to save the Union, preserve American democracy, and protect freedom and human rights for all people, founded on antislavery heritage of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 and the Michigan Constitution; and
Whereas, Michigan sent 50 percent of its military-age male population to fight in the war, including specialized regiments of sharpshooters and engineers. This was more cavalry per capita than any other Northern state and comprised individuals of diverse ethnic origin, including Native Americans and African Americans; and
Whereas, Michiganders served in legendary military units such as the Iron Brigade, the Stonewall Regiment, and the Michigan Cavalry Brigade; and
Whereas, Michigan’s Civil War-era female population made invaluable contributions to the Union cause by working on the home front, supporting troops through commissions and societies, and in some cases, serving in military capacities; and
Whereas, Michigan lost over 14,000 soldiers and sailors in the conflict, whose selfless sacrifice should forever be remembered and extolled; and
Whereas, Appropriately recognizing the sesquicentennial of the Civil War will increase awareness of Michigan’s great heritage and enhance the state’s culture and quality of life; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby commemorate the sesquicentennial of Michigan’s participation in the American Civil War. We encourage all Michiganders to take direct and active part in the sesquicentennial of the Civil War. We further ask that all units of state and local government, colleges, libraries, museums, and media outlets encourage, foster, and participate in Civil War sesquicentennial observances in Michigan to enrich the knowledge and appreciation of this great chapter in our state’s history; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Michigan Historical Center, the National Park Service, the American Association for State and Local History, the Michigan Sons of Union Veterans, and the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.
