Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered flags lowered to half-mast on all public buildings and grounds on March 10, the one-year anniversary of the first cases of coronavirus in Michigan.
“One year ago, our world changed forever as we confronted the greatest challenge of our generation,” Whitmer said in a press release.
“By lowering the flags to honor the one-year anniversary of the virus’s confirmed presence in Michigan, we remember the nearly 16,000 sons and daughters, moms and dads, and neighbors and friends who passed away from COVID-19 in Michigan. As we honor their legacies, let us also take a moment to grieve together, and know that we are not alone in our mourning.
The first cases were diagnosed on March 10, 2020. Shortly afterward, Whitmer moved to close things like schools and restaurants, colleges voluntarily suspended in-person instruction, and for a time Michiganders were under a stay-at-home order, all designed to stop the spread of the virus.
As the year progressed, Michigan would see the disease prevalent at various levels, and various restrictions lifted, replaced and lifted again as the coronavirus wound its way through the state.
In late 2020, Michigan watched the trucks with the first vaccines roll out of Pfizer’s Portage manufacturing facility.
“One year after our first confirmed case, we now have three safe and effective vaccines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus,” Whitmer said.
“I encourage all Michiganders to continue to practice social distancing and proper hygiene and get vaccinated once they are eligible because this is the most effective way to protect you, your family, and others from COVID-19. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and we will get through this pandemic together.”
Those looking to mark the year-long pandemic at home are encouraged to lower any flags and also turn on the lights outside their homes from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesday.
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