Michigan made history on September 15, 2025, when Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed the state’s first Major Taylor Day, making Michigan the first state in the nation to officially honor the legacy of Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor, the first Black world champion cyclist and a trailblazer who shattered racial barriers in competitive cycling.
This proclamation celebrates more than Major Taylor’s achievements on the track. It recognizes his enduring role as an inspiration for cyclists of all backgrounds and highlights the importance of building inclusive cycling communities. The designation came through dedicated advocacy led by Marco Speeks, Founder and Executive Director of Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy, in partnership with the League of Michigan Bicyclists.
The League’s article details how this historic moment came together and offers meaningful ways to honor Major Taylor’s legacy — whether that’s taking a ride in his memory or supporting efforts to make cycling more accessible and welcoming across Michigan.
👉 Read the full story here: https://lmb.org/2025/09/celebrating-michigans-first-major-taylor-day-or-michigan-makes-history-major-taylor-day-proclaimed/
