Bridging Nations
The CACC’s advocacy for Iraq’s Christian future
By Sarah Kittle
Photos by Wilson Sarkis Photography
In 2023, the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce (CACC) celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated advocacy for the Chaldean community in Michigan and worldwide. Building on this significant milestone, the CACC has expanded its efforts, placing a special focus on the plight of Iraq’s Christian communities.
A pivotal moment came this February, when CACC leadership—including President Martin Manna, Executive Vice Chair Kevin Denha, Vice Chair Kevin Jappaya, and Counsel Mike Sarafa—traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with key officials about the challenges facing Christians in Iraq.
The trip was brief but impactful, with numerous critical meetings packed into their time in the nation’s capital. The delegation arrived at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and checked in at the iconic Waldorf Astoria on Pennsylvania Avenue, just a stone’s throw from the White House.
Advocating for Iraq’s Christian Community
Their first meeting was with Congresswoman Lisa McClain, who represents Michigan’s 9th District, encompassing parts of Macomb and Oakland counties—home to a significant Chaldean population. McClain, who serves as the Chair of the House Republican Conference, has consistently championed Michigan’s interests, as well as broader policy issues such as national defense, immigration, and veterans’ affairs. The CACC leadership used the opportunity to speak with McClain about the challenges facing Iraq’s Christian communities, advocating for more support and attention from U.S. policymakers.
That evening, the CACC delegation attended a dinner hosted by Ambassador Nazar Al Khairallah, the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the United States. The dinner allowed for further in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities for Iraq’s Christian communities, particularly in relation to cultural exchange, education, and heritage protection.
Day Two: More Advocacy and Key Meetings
Day two of the trip was equally packed, beginning with a meeting with Matt Mowers, a former Senior White House Advisor at the U.S. Department of State and now President of Valcour, a global strategy firm. Mowers has extensive experience in national security and foreign diplomacy, having worked on major international issues, including North Korea and ISIS. Matt will be assisting the CCF and CACC in the establishment of a Washington D.C. office, which will be another milestone event in the Chamber’s 20-year history.
The delegation also met with Rep. Darin LaHood, a member of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. LaHood’s role in the committee, which handles taxation, trade, and social security, is pivotal in shaping key legislative actions that affect both the U.S. and Iraq. Congressman LaHood has played a crucial role in helping to shape U.S policy towards Iraq with a focus on the challenges facing Iraqi Christians.
The CACC delegation participated in the National Prayer Breakfast events that led to a private meeting with Masoud Boulous, Advisor to President Trump on Middle East Affairs. The meeting confirmed the alignment of the Trump Administration on agenda items pertaining to minority rights and allowed the Michigan delegation an opportunity to discuss views on the bilateral relationship between the United States and the Republic of Iraq.
One of the most significant meetings of the day was with Senator Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA analyst and a key voice on national security matters. Slotkin’s extensive experience in the U.S. government, particularly her work in Iraq as well as Michigan, made her an ideal ally in the mission to advocate for the Chaldean community and other minorities in Iraq.
A Historic Meeting in Iraq
After they returned to Michigan, the delegation’s advocacy efforts took them across the globe. In a historic development, CACC leadership met with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani in Iraq. The Prime Minister issued a statement supporting a new fund for the reconstruction of Sinjar and the Nineveh Plain, as well as the creation of a committee to review the implementation of Article 125, which addresses the formation of new administrative units for Iraq’s minority communities.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani acknowledged the challenges posed by terrorism in Iraq but emphasized that the Iraqi government is committed to addressing the needs of all citizens, including Christians. He highlighted several key measures, including support for the return of Iraqis from the diaspora, the promotion of coexistence in areas affected by terrorism, and the creation of a fund to support the rebuilding of villages in these regions.
Additionally, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with Iraq’s President, who committed to supporting the reversal of the alcohol ban in Iraq—a move seen as significant for cultural and religious freedoms.
Supporting Education and Religious Freedom
The delegation’s next stop was a meeting with Dr. Mulnix at the American University of Iraq-Baghdad. During the visit, Mr. Manna highlighted the significant presence of over 200,000 Chaldeans in the metro Detroit area and their $18 billion contribution to the economy. He emphasized the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the university community while advocating for the protection of Iraq’s indigenous people. The University is located on the site of the former palace of Saddam Hussein. It boasts 400 faculty members and thousands of students. Mr. Manna presently serves on their Board of Directors.
At the home of the Saihood family, the founders of the University, a pledge was made to sponsor the education of ten Christian students, furthering CACC’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for Iraq’s Christian youth.
In meetings with religious leaders, including Patriarch Sako, the delegation reinforced their advocacy for Iraq’s Christians. The security situation in Iraq, they noted, had significantly improved, and while challenges remain, the country is now considered much safer for its citizens, including the Christian community.
From Baghdad, the delegation moved to Mosul where they were greeted by the Governor of Nineveh and a large gathering of media. A press conference was held announcing the approval of six of the previously submitted projects to help rebuild Christian villages and improve the quality of life in that section of Iraq. The Governor than accompanied the delegation to several stops in Mosul including the sites of many Christian churches—some open and others in process of being rebuilt after having been destroyed by ISIS. The tour included historic visits to Telkaif, Batnaya, and Qaraqosh.
The CACC’s advocacy work in both Washington, D.C. and Iraq represent an ongoing effort to address the concerns of Iraq’s Christian communities and to promote coexistence, religious freedom, and development in the region. With these high-level meetings and commitments, the CACC continues to bridge gaps and bring attention to the plight of minority groups, ensuring their voices are heard on the global stage.