Whereas, The Joint United Nations Programme of HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) estimates there are 33 million people living with HIV, including 2 million children younger than 15 years of age, with approximately 90 percent of these children living in sub-Saharan Africa; and,

Whereas, In 2007, UNAIDS estimated 2.5 million people became newly infected with the virus. Of that amount, nearly half became infected before the age of 25; and, 

Whereas, The number of adolescents and young adults diagnosed with HIVS/AIDS within the state of Michigan has increased for the fourth consecutive year; and,

Whereas, As of October 2009, a total of 14,187 persons in the state of Michigan were known to be living with HIV/AIDS, with over half being diagnosed with AIDS; and,

Whereas, In observance of World AIDS Day, this year's theme, "I am living my rights. Stop AIDS. Keep the promise," focuses on human rights and leadership at every level to make universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, and care a success; and,

Whereas, Michigan remains a national leader in its commitment to prevention strategies and compassionate care to those living with HIV/AIDS;
 
Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim December 1, 2009, World AIDS Day in Michigan.  I urge all citizens to participate in activities designed to increase the understanding of HIV/AIDS in Michigan and to take part in awareness activities that support local programs working to prevent the further spread of HIV/AIDS.