The Assyrian American Chamber of Commerce, centered in the Assyrian-American stronghold of Chicago, is on a mission to renew itself. That was the message it sought to deliver during its “Christmas Revival” event on 5 December.
A lengthy report in Nineveh News describes the event as a new start for the association, which was founded in 2014 but has been overshadowed by another, more successful Assyrian chamber in the form of the Chaldean Chamber of Commerce, based in Detroit.
The 5 December event brought together community members, civic leaders, and cultural advocates to signal a renewed focus on strengthening the economic, cultural, and social foundations of the Assyrian community, described as both a "celebration and a strategic mobilization".
"Lifting one another up is the foundation of a thriving community"
Robert DeKelaita, Executive Director of the Assyrian American Chamber of Commerce and a highly respected community leader and lecturer, delivered the keynote address, outlining the Chamber’s mission to revitalise Chicago’s Assyrian community and bolster entrepreneurial spirit. He described the organisation as a unified voice for Assyrian business interests at the local, state, and federal levels, while also serving as a platform for networking, collaboration, and growth.
DeKelaita stressed that beyond advocacy, the Chamber provides practical support to help businesses operate more effectively and works to enhance the broader economic vitality and visibility of the community. He referred to the Chamber as “the cement that aligns our business interests with both individual and collective prosperity,” and emphasised that lifting one another up is foundational to building a thriving community and nation.
Expansion and professionalization
Outlining future plans, DeKelaita said the Chamber is building a national network connecting Assyrian businesses in Chicago, Detroit, Arizona, and California; negotiating favourable terms with suppliers to reduce costs; advocating for policies that benefit Assyrian entrepreneurs; and coordinating with partner organisations to create a unified and influential national voice for Assyrian economic and cultural advancement.
He also revealed the Chamber aims to establish a fully staffed, professionally run office that will offer consistent support to Assyrian businesses and entrepreneurs, foster a strong sense of belonging and community pride, celebrate successes, and stand with members in times of challenge.
Chicago is home to one of the oldest and largest Assyrian communities in the United States, with an estimated population of around 100,000 individuals.
- The Assyria Post
