senate resolution no.32

Senators Runestad, MacDonald, Bizon, Lucido, Bayer, MacGregor, Stamas, Chang, Horn, Ananich, Johnson, Polehanki and Moss offered the following resolution:

A resolution to recognize April 11, 2019, as Chaldean American Day.

Whereas, Approximately 160,000 Chaldeans reside in Michigan, the largest population outside of the Middle East; and

Whereas, The Chaldean population began immigrating to America during the 1920’s for better economic, religious, and political freedom, bringing with them a strong work ethic which continues to positively add to the growth of Michigan through the establishment of 20,000 Chaldean owned businesses throughout the state; and

Whereas, The Chaldean community has undoubtedly proven their business skills and entrepreneurial spirit with nearly two-thirds of Chaldean American households owning at least one business and 39 percent owning two or more businesses; and

Whereas, The Chaldean community contributes an estimated eleven billion annually to Michigan’s economy; and

Whereas, Currently, the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce has 985 members that represent more than four thousand businesses with the goal of building community ties, while ensuring membership value and advocacy for the benefit of Chaldean people; and

Whereas, The Chaldean Community Foundation has promoted steady population growth by providing services to the newly arrived Iraqi Chaldean refugees in efforts to help refugees become contributing members to Michigan through assistance with housing, job placement, language development, as well as the social and government program directives; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body recognize April 11, 2019, as Chaldean American Day; and be it further

Resolved, That we acknowledge the contributions of this innovative and entrepreneurial community as an important part of Michigan’s diverse history; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce and the Chaldean Community Foundation as evidence of our highest esteem.