Coronavirus Means We All Must Work Together

Paul Jonna, Acting Editor in Chief

As Chaldeans, we are bonded by blood and faith. Our rich and cultured history – which we have preserved and nurtured – gives the Chaldean American community a unique advantage for surviving turmoil and crisis. We have a deep and abiding faith and strong family ties. We support each other. 

It has already been difficult, no doubt, to refrain from spending time with extended family and attending Mass for communal prayer. We are a close knit community. When we found out that one of the first cases of coronavirus diagnosed in Michigan was one of our own, it was scary. Chaldeans, with all of our handshakes and double kissing, are probably some of the worst offenders when it comes to swapping germs. 

We at the Chaldean News are focused on the great strength of our community. We pledge to bring you the best of our great resources which include the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce and the Chaldean Community Foundation. We reached out to our community members and they sent us stories of impact from the coronavirus, which you will read about in this issue. Our broad coverage of the community extends beyond the crisis to include some notable stories, such as Judge Hala Jarbou’s historic nomination to the federal bench. Our scholar-in-residence launches a new series on ‘Chaldeans around the World’ in this issue, with an examination of Chaldeans in Michigan to start. 

As we persevere and maintain social distance during this crisis, we are reminded how important family, friends and community are. We find ways to stay close despite the precautions, using technology and creativity to preserve our common experience and faith. God bless.

Paul Jonna
Acting Editor in Chief