Senator Marleau offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 182.

 A resolution to declare September 29 - October 5, 2014, as French-Canadian Heritage Week in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, French exploration in the Great Lakes region began with Étienne Brûlé in the early 17th century; and

Whereas, During the subsequent century, Sault Ste. Marie, Michilimackinac, Detroit, St. Joseph, Monroe, St. Ignace, and other settlements formed the first French-Canadian communities west of Montreal; and

Whereas, Communities such as Cheboygan, Muskegon, Alpena, Saginaw, Houghton, and Marquette saw a flourishing of French-Canadian culture during the 19th century lumbering era; and

Whereas, Today, Michigan’s trade, tourism, and cultural ties to Canada, particularly to Ontario and Quebec, are a continuing and vital part of the French-Canadian story; and

Whereas, Over 150,000 Michigan residents claim French-Canadian heritage; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body declare September 29 - October 5, 2014, as French-Canadian Heritage week in the state of Michigan; and be it further

Resolved, That members of the Michigan Senate join all of those of French-Canadian ancestry in celebrating their heritage and contributions to the state of Michigan on October 3, 2014.