Illinois Assyrian Caucus Formed to Advocate for Community Interests

State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) and State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview) have announced the formation of the Illinois Assyrian Caucus. This bipartisan, bicameral initiative brings together members of the Illinois General Assembly to advocate for the Assyrian community by promoting public awareness of Assyrian-American identities and addressing community issues. Illinois is the first state in the nation to establish a statewide caucus focused on Assyrian concerns.

Villivalam emphasized Illinois’s status as a welcoming state with a diverse population, stating that the caucus will elevate Assyrian-American voices and foster collaboration to address community challenges. Gong-Gershowitz highlighted the importance of giving Assyrian Americans a platform in state government, noting that Illinois is leading the way with this first-of-its-kind caucus.

The founding members of the caucus include a diverse group of state senators and representatives from across Illinois. Bishop Mar Gewargis Younan of the Ancient Church of the East welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that the caucus will enhance understanding and unity among Illinois communities while advancing Assyrian-American interests.

The Assyrian American Bar Association has also endorsed the caucus, viewing it as a valuable forum to discuss and address community needs. The association expressed gratitude to the organizers for creating this opportunity for collaboration.

The formation of the Illinois Assyrian Caucus reflects a growing recognition of the Assyrian-American community’s contributions and the need for inclusive representation in state governance. This development underscores the importance of unity and mutual understanding among diverse communities. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humble service, themes that resonate in the efforts to support and uplift the Assyrian-American community.

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