Rep. Hoadley offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 174.

            A resolution to declare October 11, 2017, as National Coming Out Day in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, National Coming Out Day is recognized internationally as a day of self-affirmation and to raise awareness of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGTBQ) community and the movement for equality; and

            Whereas, National Coming Out Day was founded in 1988 to mark the anniversary of the  second National March on Washington, with an estimated half a million participants, for “Lesbian and Gay Rights” which took place in 1987; and

            Whereas, National Coming Out Day emphasizes the importance of “coming out,” the voluntary self-disclosure of one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity; and

            Whereas, National Coming Out Day creates an opportunity for the people of Michigan to celebrate the rich variation of persons in our state and to value their contributions to our communities; and

            Whereas, The people of Michigan firmly believe in a society that values the freedom, worth, and dignity of each human being. Our residents understand and appreciate the cultural, civic, and economic contributions of the LGBTQ community to the greater community of the state; and

            Whereas, October 11 is recognized and celebrated as National Coming Out Day throughout the country and worldwide; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare October 11, 2017 as National Coming Out Day in the state of Michigan. We pledge to continue our efforts in creating and maintaining a state that provides acceptance, equal opportunity, fair treatment, and human dignity for all people.