LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — It’s a big step for women in sports in Michigan.
On Monday Governor Whitmer signed an executive order, establishing the official Task Force on Women in Sports within the the Department of State.
The purpose of the task force, which is the first of its kind on a state level, is to help support better opportunities for Michigan women and girls involved in sports programs.
In a statement, Whitmer wrote:
“Young girls and women who are participating in sports in Michigan deserve the same opportunities as their male counterparts. These possibilities extend well beyond time on the playing field. Playing basketball in high school allowed me to develop leadership skills while learning about the importance of teamwork. When women participate in a variety of sports, it allows them to explore these meaningful opportunities.”
The organization is chaired by Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, and also includes national and state members to create suggestions for more empowering policies.
In a statement, Benson wrote:
“This is a chance for Michigan to become a national model for advancing opportunities for all women to lead in every arena. Sports is a great equalizer in our society, and research shows that women who play sports are more likely to seek and fill leadership positions in other sectors. I look forward to leading this important effort and developing solutions to level the playing field in opportunities for women in sports in our state.”
(copy written by Will Kriss)
