A Closer Look @ Community

Paul Jonna, Acting Editor in Chief

Since our last publication in April, when we halted the presses (not literally) to bring you the cover story on coronavirus, we as human beings have faced challenges heretofore unforeseen. COVID-19 has rocked the world in a way none of us could have imagined at the beginning of the year 2020. Waaay back in the September 2019 issue of the Chaldean News, we asked our readership, “What do you want to see in the new CN?” (If you recall, we were under new ownership and were looking for input to improve.)

Christina Toma told us she wants to see more of the amazing things people in the community do on a daily basis. She said it would encourage others “to be a light in this world.” Danny Francis also wanted a closer look at Chaldeans who give back and said, “There’s nothing more enlightening.” We had no way of knowing that the future would bring an opportunity for the community to shine on such a large scale.

Through the Chaldean American Association for Health Professionals (CAAHP), we reached out and asked for photos so that we could recognize our own healthcare heroes. We were blown away by the inpouring of photos and names of members of our Chaldean American community who are working tirelessly across the country to combat this disease. From New York to California, we are contributing to the cause in abundance.

As everyone’s definition of “essential” came into alignment, the humble grocery store worker’s role was highlighted. Neighborhood grocers are literally saving lives. We as Chaldean Americans have always known that grocers are the lifeblood of a community, but sometimes it takes a worldwide pandemic to show that to the rest of the world.

Most of us here in Michigan have been virtually grounded for the last month. For mental health workers at the Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF), this isolation puts a strain on their clients that requires more care at a time when the offices of the CCF are physically closed. Rising to the challenge telephonically (an old-new word), the case workers at the CCF are treating clients on the phone and are busier than ever.

Our May issue is dedicated to the community —to the healthcare heroes, the grocery godsends, the mental health workers, the parents being teachers, the teachers being techs, and everyone else reaching out to support others during this all-consuming crisis. We celebrate you!

Paul Jonna
Acting Editor in Chief