LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Michael Webber on Thursday voted for legislation honoring the cultural, economic and civic contributions of Chaldean Americans in Michigan.
“Macomb and Oakland counties are home to the largest Chaldean community in the country — one that has been actively engaged in growing our state’s cultural and economic landscape for years,” said Webber, R-Rochester Hills. “By recognizing May as Chaldean American Month, we can pay tribute to the significant contributions Chaldean Americans have made in our state, celebrate their legacy and express our gratitude for their efforts to improve our lives and strengthen our neighborhoods.”
House Bill 4303 would designate May of each year as “Chaldean American Month” to recognize the impact Chaldean, Assyrian and Syriac Americans have made in Michigan.
According to the Chaldean Community Foundation, there are an estimated 500,000 Chaldeans living in the United States and 187,000 Chaldeans residing in Southeast Michigan, primarily in Macomb and Oakland counties.
Nearly 60% of Chaldean households own at least one business, collectively contributing approximately $18 billion to Michigan’s economy.
HB 4303 now heads back to the House of Representatives, which previously approved the bill 99-1. The House will then send the legislation to the governor to be signed.
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