June 2019
Congressional Delegation Comes Together for Iraqi Nationals
On Friday, May 3, members of the Oakland County Congressional Delegation came together before the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce’s 16th Annual Awards Gala at Shenandoah Country Club in West Bloomfield to introduce a bill intended to protect Iraqi nationals at risk for deportation.
Introduced the following Tuesday, details for the bill were discussed at the press conference on May 3. The delegation included U.S. Representatives Andy Levin, Elissa Slotkin, Brenda Lawrence, and Haley Steven. The delegation was also joined by Congressman John Moolenaar and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.
The bill would protect Iraqi nationals at risk of deportation by deferring removal for two years for nationals who were ordered removed from the country any time before the bill’s enactment, and who were living in the U.S. on or before January 1, 2014.
The bill would exclude deferral for those who are a threat to national security, have voluntarily chosen to return, or are subject to extradition. Under the bill, authorization and documentation for employment purposes would be valid for the duration of the deferral to nationals who apply to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
DHS would also be prevented from detaining individuals protected by the deferral for the two year period.
The introduction of this bill comes after an unfavorable ruling from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, who decided to not take a look at the Hamama v. Adducci class action lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
This ruling prompted U.S. Representatives Andy Levin and John Moolenaar to pen a letter to DHS, requesting the deferment of the mass detention and deportation of Iraqi nationals. This letter of support was signed in support of those at risk by 23 other lawmakers.
Our Lady of the Fields Camp and Retreat Center
Located in Brighton, Michigan, the 164 acres offers the feel of up north living surrounded by trees and with a serene waterfront.
The camp’s mission is to live the Gospel and to practice the Golden Rule. From this camp experience you have the opportunity to come to know the Lord more closely. You also, have a great opportunity to meet many new people and of course have fun.
Boys and girls camps are offered in addition to family camps. Additionally, the camp offers their camp grounds for everything from religious retreats to corporate gatherings. Many amenities are offered, including updated living quarters and a new ropes course.
Our Lady of the Fields Camp and Retreat Center will be hosting an open house on Saturday, June 1 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. All are welcome to see what the camp and retreat center have to offer. Mass with Bishop Francis to follow.
Willy Wonka Jr.
Several Chaldeans performed in the Off Broadway Production of the Spring Musical at St. Fabian Catholic School. This year was Willy Wonka Jr.
Selfies with the Bishop
Mariann Sarafa snaps a selfie with the beloved Bishop Ibrahim and her cousins Tammy Binno Jonna, Nesreen Binno Denha and Jeanine Binno Ammori at the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards dinner.