California Governor Designates March 20 as ‘Day of Remembrance and Prayer for Victims of the Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan’

Many runners in today’s Los Angeles marathon have used the day as an opportunity to raise funds and awareness for the victims of Japan. In addition, Governor Jerry Brown has made today an official remembrance day. On Saturday, he issued the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, a devastating 9.0 earthquake struck northern Japan on March 11, 2011, also generating a tsunami which took thousands of lives and severely damaged nuclear facilities; and

 WHEREAS, the people of Japan stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of the United States as strong allies; and

 WHEREAS, the history of our two countries proves that even the most bitter of enemies can become the most esteemed and trusted of friends; and

 WHEREAS, California’s history, economy and culture is forever linked with the people of Japan, as common citizens of the Pacific Rim; and

 WHEREAS, the people of Japan continue to persevere through a disaster of almost unimaginable proportions with courage, resolve and honor; and

 WHEREAS, the People of the State of California are keeping the victims and families affected by this tragedy in their thoughts and prayers as the situation unfolds; and 

 WHEREAS, next week is Tsunami Awareness Week in the United States, a time for us to remember the importance of being prepared for natural disasters.

 THEREFORE, I, EDMUND G. Brown, Governor of the State of California, do hereby declare Sunday, March 20, 2011 as: A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND PRAYER FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI IN JAPAN.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 19th day of March 2011.