The Michigan Legislature yesterday adopted a resolution to declare September 29 to October 5, 2014 as French-Canadian Heritage Week in the state of Michigan.
Here is the text of that resolution that provides the history of French Canadians in the state.
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, Détroit, 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 Today, over 150,000 Michigan residents claim French-Canadian heritage; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, 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 House of Representatives join all of those of French-Canadian ancestry in celebrating their heritage and contributions to the state of Michigan on October 3, 2014.
