The Minority Leader and the Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 48.

            A resolution to honor the memory of Martha Griffiths.

            Whereas, The recent passing of Martha Griffiths marks the end of an era in Michigan history.  With her life-long commitment to public service and her dynamic leadership at virtually all levels of governmental service, this spirited and visionary woman has strengthened our state and nation in many ways; and

            Whereas, Martha Griffiths was a native of Missouri who came to Michigan to study at the University of Michigan Law School.  Her remarkable career included accomplishments on behalf of others through the private practice of law and service through the Michigan House of Representatives from 1949 to 1952, the Detroit Recorder's Court bench, the United States House of Representative from 1955 to 1974, numerous corporate boards, and the office of Lieutenant Governor from 1983 to 1990.  Few individuals have served in a wider variety of leadership roles in Michigan, and none has had more of an impact on the issue of women's rights in our country.  Over the course of her public service, she distinguished herself in all three branches of state government and as one of Michigan's most effective voices at the national level; and

            Whereas, While any number of accomplishments could serve as her legacy, Martha Griffiths' impact in opening up opportunities for women will clearly endure.  She fought in Congress to ensure women's rights in the landmark 1964 Civil Rights Act, and she championed the effort to gain support for the Equal Rights Amendment, which helped reshape expectations for an entire generation; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Martha Griffiths, former member of the House and the Congress of the United States and Lieutenant Governor; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to her family as evidence of the lasting respect held for her memory across Michigan.