Bill Text: MI HR0172 | 2015-2016 | 98th Legislature | Introduced
Bill Title: A resolution to encourage the business community and the citizens of Michigan to preserve the original intentions of Thanksgiving Day by refraining from offering or participating in sales promotions, and to encourage community organizations and religious institutions to offer their own events for individuals unable to celebrate with family and friends.
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Republican 26-15)
Status: (Introduced - Dead) 2015-10-21 - Referred To Committee On Commerce And Trade [HR0172 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2015-HR0172-Introduced.html
Rep. Hooker offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 172.
A resolution to encourage the business community and the citizens of Michigan to preserve the original intentions of Thanksgiving Day by refraining from offering or participating in sales promotions, and to encourage community organizations and religious institutions to offer their own events for individuals unable to celebrate with family and friends.
Whereas, On October 3, 1789, President George Washington proclaimed the final Thursday in November a national day of reflection, gratitude, and rest so that the citizens of the United States could recognize and celebrate the fruits of American labor. For the past 226 years, families and communities across this nation have come together in celebration and brotherhood to express gratitude and appreciation for one another on this day; and
Whereas, Citizens in the state of Michigan deserve the opportunity to observe and celebrate our national day of Thanksgiving. In recent years, non-essential businesses, such as retail establishments, have steadily encroached upon this day, using sales promotions and other marketing techniques to entice consumers away from their celebrations, and requiring employees to forgo or limit the enjoyment and togetherness brought by this holiday. This is a detriment to the employees, their families, and our communities; and
Whereas, For the sake of our communities and citizens, non-essential businesses in Michigan should support their employees and their families by observing this great holiday. In keeping with the spirit of Thanksgiving and to honor their workers, non-essential businesses should refrain from using sales promotions and other marketing techniques that entice individuals away from their celebrations and mandate the absence of employees from these celebrations; and
Whereas, Business and public services that are necessary for the well-being of our communities should make every attempt to allow their employees the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving Day. Emergencies and natural events don't observe holidays, and our communities rely on people like first responders, hospital workers, and utility workers to combat these events. These individuals forfeit part of their holiday for the safety and well-being of Michigan's families, and employers should ensure these individuals the best opportunity to celebrate with their family and friends; and
Whereas, Citizens of Michigan should refrain from participating in commercial events on Thanksgiving Day. A gesture of respect and caring to their fellow citizens, refraining from participating in these events would demonstrate to businesses that we support Michigan's working families. Moreover, drawing people out of their homes and into the streets creates additional demands on public services, like police, fire, and medical professionals, demands that must be met; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we encourage the business community and the citizens of Michigan to preserve the original intentions of Thanksgiving Day by refraining from offering or participating in sales promotions; and be it further
Resolved, That for citizens of this state without family or friends with which to celebrate this holiday, we encourage community organizations and religious institutions to offer their own events and community spaces in celebration and brotherhood.
