The future status of the Library of Michigan, the Archives and the Museum is
being threatened by an Executive Order of the Governor. You can read the
full text of this order at:
http://michigan.gov/documents/gov/EO36_285881_7.pdf.
This is not a done deal yet. Executive orders can be rejected by the
Legislature. This order, if the Library is to be saved, must be rejected by
Oct. 1, 2009. The Michigan Genealogical Council (MGC) of which MMGS is a
member is leading a campaign to have this order rejected. You can read more
about these efforts at:
http://mimgc.org/
Our society was very active in efforts that made the present home for the
Library, Archives and Museum possible. We have supported the collections
and work of the Library for many years. It is time for us to come together
and help rescue these treasures from destruction by this Executive Order.
One of the ways you can aid the cause is to write, call or visit your State
Representative and State Senator. For non-Michigan residents, write Senator
Jason Allen. The MGC webpage gives directions for determining your
legislative people:
http://mimgc.org/
Another event planned by MGC is a day of support called "Hands around the
Library." August 5, 2009 is the chosen day for genealogists, historians and
interested persons to assemble and show the Michigan Legislatures that the
services and the facilities of the Library, Archives and Museum should not
be dispersed in the manner described by the Executive Order. The details
are not firmly in place for this event. The plan so far is to gather at the
State Capitol at 9:45 am and be present for the opening of the Legislative
sessions. The group will then march across the mall to the Library building
and join other interested persons. At 11 am, all present at the Library
will form a large circle around the building and clasp hands of support. The
event will be concluded by noon. It is hoped that this event will be well
publicized and reported upon by our media system.
As you can imagine, this event needs to be well organized and coordinated.
Joanne Harvey has been working on getting the necessary permits from the
Lansing Police Dept. She has asked for member help in continuing these
plans. She needs a right hand man or personal assistant to help with the
recruiting of people, planning signs, gathering flags and buntings, making
numerous phone calls and generally helping her with the many details that go
into such events. Please, if you can help, give Joanne a call at
517-321-0945 or drop an e-mail to her at harveyfti(a)webtv.net
Along with the people, the circle needs definition. If you have a machine
that chalks grass, that would be a welcome service. If you have other ideas
and services for the event let Joanne know. If you know how to get
publicity, now is the time to come forward with your ideas and contacts. We
must all join together and save our Library.
More details on the Aug. 5 events of support will be sent to you as they
become available.
Judy
Judy Levy Pfaff