JUNE 2026: YOUTH EMPLOYMENT MONTH

WHEREAS, an estimated 250,000 Michigan youth, ages 16 to 19, are expected to participate in the state's labor market this summer; and,

WHEREAS, the contributions of local businesses, educational institutions, government, and community groups are essential to promote and develop productive summer opportunities for youth; and,

WHEREAS, summer youth employment opportunities are offered within many Michigan industries such as agriculture, energy, healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, recreation and tourism, and retail; and,

WHEREAS, historically, during the month of June, we encourage Michigan employers to help our youth Make it in Michigan by offering meaningful, safe, and valuable work opportunities. We urge them to recognize that hiring young people, including those with disabilities, is an investment in the future of our state and nation; and,

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's Wage and Hour and Workforce Development Divisions, in partnership with the Michigan Works! network has resources for businesses, schools, and parents seeking information about legally and safely employing minors; and,

WHEREAS, the Young Professionals initiative offers youth and young adults who face barriers to employment an introduction to the world of work, including job skills, earned income, and career exploration; and

WHEREAS, Michigan supports its next generation of workers with career exploration tools, like the free Michigan Career and Education Pathfinder, to assist with mapping their futures and identifying career and educational pathways throughout the state;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, and Garlin Gilchrist II, lieutenant governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 2026 as Youth Employment Month in Michigan.