Conversations That Matter

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief

Mental health is one of those topics that can be difficult to discuss, yet it deserves a place in our everyday conversations. We have been providing articles that address mental health because it is such an important issue—one that affects individuals, families and communities. If you or someone you love is struggling, reaching out for support is a sign of strength.

Our feature story on BMX athlete Nikita Ducarroz addresses anxiety and what can be done to manage it. Her approach offers a simple but powerful reminder: sometimes, getting on your bad motor scooter and riding can be a pretty good place to start. Future features will continue to explore mental health from a cultural perspective.

This issue also includes a guest column on immigration reform from an immigration attorney, along with an article examining deportation fears and the 90-day notice, with input from the ACLU of Michigan.

We look at how the World Cup sparked national pride, especially among Iraqi Christians who are so often overlooked, and how a conversation with the Iraqi prime minister may lead to positive changes for Christians who remain in Iraq.

Dr. Miri teaches us about the history of the Iraqi flag and shares some great vacation photos from his world travels in the 20th century. Jenna Abroo introduces us to Tigris Detroit, a new hotspot for urban nightlife, and Jonathan Francis shares his photos from Chaldean Cultural Night at Comerica Park.

We also talked with Yvonne Najor, a major cast member of Bravo’s In the City. CN writer Dr. Crystal Kassab caught up with her to find out what it’s like to share her little-known culture—and her pregnancy, with all its drama—on primetime television.

And, of course, we can’t forget our cover heroes, Jonny “Magic” Mansour and Julius “Juju” Ballo. These two pugilists represent the fighting spirit and family bonds that are such a big part of Chaldean culture. Their matches at the Fox Theatre, in the heart of District Detroit’s historic entertainment area, should make for a fun evening for everyone involved.

There is always room for connection, compassion and renewal. Hopefulness isn’t something we simply have or lose forever—it is something we can rebuild together, through honest conversations, kindness and the courage to ask for help when we need it.

If one person’s story encourages another to reach out, connect or simply feel less alone, then we’ve done something worthwhile.

As always, thank you for reading, for supporting independent community journalism, and for caring about one another.

Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief