Michigan, renowned for its cultural diversity, boasts a vibrant tapestry woven with various ethnic communities, among which the Chaldean community stands as one of the most dynamic. Sprawled across various cities across the state, the Chaldean community has seamlessly integrated into Michigan’s cultural fabric, bringing with it a rich blend of traditions, history, and resilience.
The Chaldeans, hailing from the historical region of the Middle East that spans Iraq, Syria, and parts of Iran and Turkey, have sought refuge abroad due to the enduring political and social unrest that has destabilized their home region. Thanks to Michigan’s welcoming environment and economic prospects, the state has become a pivotal hub for Chaldean immigrants in the United States, with the Detroit metropolitan area serving as its epicenter. Cities like Sterling Heights, West Bloomfield, and Warren have experienced a notable influx of Chaldean families, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity and commercial dynamism of these communities.
The Chaldean Community Foundation
A distinctive feature of the Chaldean community’s presence in Michigan is its entrepreneurial spirit. Many Chaldeans have successfully established businesses, ranging from small family-owned shops to larger enterprises. The Chaldean Chamber of Commerce, headquartered in Farmington Hills, plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting Chaldean businesses, fostering economic growth and prosperity within the community.
The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF), a nonprofit organization, has undergone a transformative journey since 2011, evolving into a full-service human and social service agency to cater to the needs of the Chaldean community in the United States and Michigan. Originally aiming to serve 400 people per year, the CCF surpassed expectations, providing services to 4,000 individuals within the first year. Moreover, its 1,500 square-foot facility serves as a haven, offering human, health, social, and community services to new refugee arrivals, ethnic immigrant communities, and low-income and disadvantaged populations. By 2014, the number of people served by the CCF surged to an impressive 16,000. Today, the foundation serves more than 41,000 individuals annually, from 58 different countries of origin.
Contributing to Michigan’s cultural landscape, the Chaldean community actively enriches the state’s diverse tapestry. From religious festivals to traditional music and dance, Chaldeans preserve and share their vibrant traditions. The fusion of Middle Eastern and Assyrian flavors in Chaldean cuisine has also garnered popularity among the state’s residents, with Chaldean-owned restaurants offering authentic dishes that captivate the taste buds.
Religion holds a significant place in Chaldean culture, with many practicing Chaldean Catholicism. Churches and religious institutions serve not only as places of worship but also as community centers where cultural events and gatherings take place.
Martin Manna, President of the CCF, emphasizes the pivotal role of the foundation as a hub for the community in the United States. “We offer various services including language courses aimed at connecting the next generation of immigrants with their roots,” Manna explains. In addition, the CCF provides legal advisory assistance to the Chaldean community as well as to Kurdish and Iraqi individuals.
The foundation’s cultural programs encompass courses in music and arts, culminating in annual exhibitions on special occasions. Manna underscores the shared destiny and values between the Chaldean community and the Kurds, expressing gratitude to the Kurdistan Regional Government for their unwavering support.
President Masoud Barzani’s emphasis on standing together to protect peaceful coexistence in Kurdistan resonates deeply with the Chaldean community. Manna acknowledges the importance of diversity in Kurdistan and the collective responsibility to safeguard this haven while promoting peaceful coexistence.
The Chaldean diaspora community in the United States stands out for its remarkable achievements in both business and culture. Numerous success stories across the country make it a source of pride, embodying resilience, cultural preservation, and a commitment to diversity.
Shamal Abdulla is a journalist with 18 years of experience in the field. He has held a number of prestigious positions, including news director at Kurdistan 24 and the editor-in-chief of BasNews.
