From 8pm to 9pm, the Detroit Skyline will light up to commemorate the lives we’ve lost, and to a brighter future.
Over 15,000 people have passed in Michigan from COVID-19 in this past year, and over 50,000 have been infected. In honor of the lives that have been lost, Governor Whitmer has lowered all flags, and is asking Michiganders to turn their lights on tonight for an hour of commemoration from 8pm to 9pm.
.@GovWhitmer lowers flags today, March 10, 2021, to honor the one-year anniversary of the coronavirus in Michigan & mourn those who have lost their lives to #COVID19. As of this order, #COVID19 has infected 598,014 & killed 15,670 people in Michigan. https://t.co/ySoJG4vd7L. pic.twitter.com/vbigeJtG57
— Michigan.gov (@migov) March 10, 2021
In a press release by Governor Whitmer, it asks that all Michiganders turn their porch lights on for one hour to honor the lives of the Michiganders we’ve lost.
“It’s been one year since COVID-19 was found in Michigan, and as a result, this virus has changed almost every aspect of our daily lives, but despite its darkness, we have seen the brightest light shine in the determined resolve of each other during these trying times,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist. “The simple act of turning on our lights is a way to remember and honor those we have lost and show that we’re all in this together and we will emerge from this crisis, together.”
Some local businesses have also agreed to take part in lighting up their buildings in Detroit, such as Bedrock, the real estate company that also has a few events around the city, such as the Monroe Street Drive-In.
photos courtesy of Bedrock Detroit
As the virus continues to spread, Michigan is still acting to release the virus as swiftly as possible, and has now expanded to residents 50+ or older within certain conditions. By March 22nd, this will expand to all Michiganders age 50 and up. As the seasons pass, it’s important to look back to what we lost, pay respects, and stay hopeful for a brighter future.
[featured image by lumen8shun via Instagram]