From Discovery to Legacy
Dr. Ali Eli and the Chaldean revival in Iraq
By Weam Namou
Dr. Ali Eli, a university professor with a Ph.D. in accounting, is a well-known figure in Nasiriyah, his birthplace and the historic city of Ur—the ancient homeland of the Chaldeans. His Facebook page proudly displays images of the Chaldean flag and Pope Francis, reflecting the deep Chaldean heritage he uncovered later in life.
For Dr. Eli, the question of his identity began more than 25 years ago when he started to wonder about his roots. “Where do I come from? What are my origins? Why do I feel a cultural and linguistic connection that is different from those around me?” he asked.
These questions sparked a year-long journey in search of answers, leading him to explore historical texts, genealogical records, and even genetic studies.
“Knowledge builds advanced societies by replacing myths with facts,” he said.
As he investigated further, Dr. Eli noticed distinct linguistic patterns in his family, along with names and traditions that set them apart from the wider community. His research ultimately confirmed that he was of Chaldean descent, tracing his lineage back to the ancient civilization that once flourished in Mesopotamia—a discovery that transformed his life.
But for Dr. Eli, this was more than just a personal revelation. He saw his heritage as a responsibility—a mission to preserve and promote the Chaldean identity in a modern world where ancient cultures risk being forgotten.
“I wanted to use this information to benefit my community and ensure accuracy in everything I share,” he said.
In time, he became known as Dr. Ali Eli, the Chaldean.
The Work
Dr. Eli’s passion for heritage led him to establish cultural organizations and events in Nasiriyah, where he works to celebrate the city’s historic and spiritual significance. Among his many achievements:
Founding Shabab Al-Kaldan (Chaldean Youth): A group dedicated to engaging young people in cultural, educational, and community-building activities, with a focus on celebrating Chaldean traditions and proudly promoting the Chaldean flag.
Empowering Women: Recognizing the vital role of women in preserving cultural identity, Dr. Eli established Nisa’ Al-Kaldan (Chaldean Women), a group that amplifies the voices of Chaldean women and honors important figures such as martyr Laila Khoma and Archbishop Faraj Rahho.
Promoting Peace and Art: Through initiatives like children’s art workshops and theatrical productions, Dr. Eli fosters a spirit of love, peace, and cultural pride in the younger generation.
“These children grew into the next generation of Chaldean youth and women leaders,” he said. “Over time, we expanded our efforts, forming cultural, environmental, and interfaith dialogue groups.”
His organizations also produced theatrical works to spread messages of love and peace, including Jesus: A Message of Love and Peace and Jonah in Kalhu. During difficult periods, such as the rise of ISIS, they created productions symbolizing unity and resilience, like the play Nun.
“One of our proudest moments was when I addressed Pope Francis during his visit, declaring my pride in being Chaldean,” he said.
The Challenges
Reviving a minority culture in a diverse yet conflict-laden region like Iraq has not been without its challenges. Dr. Eli encountered resistance from some who struggled to distinguish between Chaldean identity as an ethnic heritage and Christianity as a religion. Despite this, his resilience and unwavering belief in the value of Chaldean culture have earned him widespread respect.
“Even when we faced misunder-standing, opposition, or indifference,” he said, “we pressed on with determination, strength, and faith. Preserving our heritage is preserving the soul of Iraq itself.”
His ultimate goal is to ensure that future generations of Chaldeans grow up with a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage.
In collaboration with his son, Dr. Mohammed Ali—a Chaldean civil society activist and expert in minority rights—Dr. Eli has expanded his efforts to connect with the global community. Dr. Mohammed holds a Ph.D. in English Language and Translation from Kent State University and works through the International Language Institute to translate cultural and historical materials into English for international audiences.
Together, they document Chaldean history and culture, capturing photographic scenes from within Iraq, while hosting Iraqi and foreign pilgrims for academic and cultural exchanges with universities across Iraq, the Arab world, and beyond.
“As a result of our work, over a thousand Iraqis have discovered their Chaldean roots,” Dr. Eli said.
Reconnection
Dr. Eli’s story is one of discovery, resilience, and hope. Through his tireless efforts, he has not only uncovered his own roots but has also helped an entire community reconnect with its identity. From facilitating Pope Francis’s historic visit to Nasiriyah in 2021, to playing a leading role in establishing the Chaldean Catholic diocese in the region, to inspiring the next generation of Chaldeans, he has shown that preserving one’s heritage is a profound act of love and service.
At the heart of Dr. Eli’s mission is building stronger ties between Chaldeans in Iraq and those in the diaspora. “To ensure the survival of the Chaldean’s unique identity,” he explained, “it’s important that Chaldeans in Iraq collaborate with the diaspora, particularly in the United States.”
His words underscore the critical importance of unity and shared responsibility in preserving Chaldean cultural heritage across generations and borders.
This vision comes to life through the many initiatives and events led by Dr. Eli and his organizations, all focused on bringing people together and celebrating their shared identity. Most recently, they participated in the “Evening of the Holy Light” event at the Church of the Virgin Mary of the Syriac Orthodox in Basra.
Representing the Chaldean gatherings in Ur of the Chaldeans, Nasiriyah, Dr. Eli presented symbolic gifts to the attendees, including Basra’s Deputy Governor Maher Al-Amri. The gifts—a bouquet of flowers and a model of the great Chaldean ziggurat—served as powerful symbols of the community’s cultural and historical pride.
The occasion not only reflected the spirit of unity and devotion but also reinforced the enduring legacy of the Chaldean heritage.
Dr. Ali Eli’s lifelong journey to uncover and preserve his Chaldean heritage serves as an inspiring reminder that cultural identity is not just about the past—it is about building bridges to the future. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, Dr. Eli has empowered a new generation to embrace their history with pride and purpose. His work stands as a testament to the resilience of the Chaldean people and the power of one individual’s commitment to make a lasting impact.