House Resolution No. [insert number] commemorates the 115th anniversary of the Midwest Independent Retailers Association (MIRA), which serves as a key trade association for independent retailers across the Midwest. Established in 1910 as the Detroit Retail Meat Merchants, MIRA has evolved through various mergers and expansions to represent a diverse range of retail and wholesale industries, now encompassing thousands of members in multiple states. The association is dedicated to supporting small, independent businesses through its seven pillars of service, which include business support, government relations, vendor programs, compliance, networking, community outreach, and scholarship initiatives aimed at benefiting local communities.

The resolution highlights the vital role MIRA members play in their communities by providing essential goods and services, particularly in areas lacking big box stores. These independent retailers not only create local employment opportunities but also contribute to local and state tax revenues, fostering community growth and stability. As MIRA prepares to celebrate its 115th anniversary in 2025, the House of Representatives expresses its recognition and appreciation for the association's longstanding commitment to supporting independent retailers and enhancing the economic landscape of the Midwest.