(WWJ) One year since the first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in Michigan, and state officials want to mark the anniversary while honoring those affected.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist are asking all Michiganders to turn on the lights outside of their homes on Wednesday, March 10, from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. in remembrance of the Michiganders we have lost.
"We've had a difficult year and lost so many fellow Michiganders, "said Whitmer, in a statement. "On Wednesday, Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist and I urge everyone to turn on their porch lights for an hour, so that we can remember those we've lost and remind ourselves that even in times of darkness, we're in this together. As we mark this occasion, we also look towards the light at the end of the tunnel. We have three safe, effective vaccines, all miracles of science, that will help protect you, your family, and others from COVID and help us get our country and the economy back to normal."
Added Gilchrist: "...This virus has changed almost every aspect of our daily lives, but despite its darkness, we have seen the brightest light shine in the determined resolve of each other during these trying times. The simple act of turning on our lights is a way to remember and honor those we have lost and show that we're all in this together and we will emerge from this crisis, together."
Also announced, Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday.
"One year ago, our world changed forever as we confronted the greatest challenge of our generation," Whitmer said. "By lowering the flags to honor the one-year anniversary of the virus's confirmed presence in Michigan, we remember the nearly 16,000 sons and daughters, moms and dads, and neighbors and friends who passed away from COVID-19 in Michigan. As we honor their legacies, let us also take a moment to grieve together, and know that we are not alone in our mourning.
"One year after our first confirmed case, we now have three safe and effective vaccines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus," she added.
"I encourage all Michiganders to continue to practice social distancing and proper hygiene and get vaccinated once they are eligible because this is the most effective way to protect you, your family, and others from COVID-19. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and we will get through this pandemic together."
Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations are also encouraged — but not required — to display the flag at half-staff.
To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Flags should remain lowered through Saturday, March 20, in accordance with the previous announcement for former Attorney General Frank J. Kelley. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Sunday, March 21.
