filling a void Community
filling a void Community forum attracts all walks of life By Weam Namou More than a thousand people of all nationalities showed up on November 6 for a community forum at Bradley Hall in Oak Park, where a variety of medical, legal and civic services were offered. “We have been running this forum for 25 years, and oftentimes more than once a year,” said Dr. Ramsay F. Dass, one of the leading sponsors. “Previously, it only consisted of medical services. In the last few years, legal consultations were added and for the first time this year, civic and civil agencies are here as well.” Healthcare providers consulted and provided testing such as blood pressure, blood sugar and other vital signs, and educated attendees on general health care issues. Service providers and attendees were from all walks of life, including African Americans, Indians, Latinos and even people from Ghana. “The first year, only Chaldeans showed up but then more and more minorities came,” said Dr. Kathleen Dass, Ramsay’s daughter. “I think one reason is because the economy is affecting everyone.” “I’m here to try and find a brain specialist,” said Al Uthmani Abid Al Kareem, a Mandaean who fled from Iraq because of the persecution taking place against minorities. “I came to the United States three and a half months ago but have so far received little healthcare assistance.” “I called all the organizations,” said Ramsy Dass, “because this forum has three purposes: to serve the community; to introduce others to the community through a positive image; and for us to learn what we can give other communities. This is how we gain respect in this country.” Attorneys assisted and educated the communities in legal and immigration matters while civic leaders provided an overview of services to help improve the relationship between the residents and government agencies. “We need to push education in our community in order that we know how to love and live the American dream,” said Judge David Allen, From above: Oak Park Mayor Gerald (Jerry) Naftaly is flanked by Rose Blair and Florice Hughes. Alwaiz and Saleema Kachal confer with Dr. Ramsay Dass (standing, back) Dr. Kairi Horsley and Dr. Tara Stock. Dr. Kathleen Dass and PA Moheen Suna- Sitto were on hand to answer medical questions. the vice president of ACCESS. Dass invited Oak Park Mayor Gerald (Jerry) E. Naftaly to the forum, calling him “a best friend for the Chaldean community.” “There are a lot of similarities between the Jewish community and the Chaldean community that had to come to the United States and assimilate,” said Naftaly. “They don’t know the government so they are afraid of it. It’s the leaders’ responsibility to be friendly and approachable, to go the extra step to help those coming into the country.” Falah Al Shanari couldn’t agree more. He has been facing severe hardships and has turned to every Chaldean and Middle Eastern organization and the Church but said he has found little comfort. “Our community has been very neglectful,” said Al Shanari. “When I go for medical help at volunteer centers, the secretary who greets me requests sixty dollars when I don’t even have sixty cents in my pockets.” Al Shanari feels that he is directed from one organization to another and given humiliating handouts, like a couple of dollars here and there. “I am not a beggar,” he said, raising his voice for everyone to hear. “I am simply in need of a roof over my head and healthcare.” But Dr. Raj Bothra said he sees the American community as the most generous people on earth. He spent 20 years working with Mother Theresa in India. The only thing he would encourage, he said, is for young people to be involved in voluntary work as part of their education. “This forum is a big service to the community,” said Bothra. “That people from different parts of the world are here is the perfect image of America.” Pastor Kathy Wuopio of Healthcare Christian Fellowship of Michigan reminded people that healthcare is not just about the physical aspect, but also the spiritual as well. She and her husband provide training for nurses, volunteers and whoever else wants to “touch someone deeply and give them the care they deserve.” “We’re so full of our opinions and are quick to say, ‘let’s pray,’” she said. “But people may just need something as simple as a blanket or a cup of water. We must not have an agenda and “We must meet people where they’re at, not where you think they should be.” – Pastor Kathy Wuopio meet people where they’re at, not where you think they should be.” All the physicians present, including Dr. George Malick, a dermatologist, and Dr. Labeed Nouri, a general surgeon, agreed that the forum should take place as often as four times a year and that more doctor specialists should get involved. “There were people looking for pediatrics, for eye doctors, and other specialists who were not available here,” said Malick, who participates every year. “I don’t believe that any doctor can’t afford to see a few people for free,” said Nouri. “My kids asked me why I’m coming on a Sunday to do charity, since I do charity every day of the week at work.” Nouri sees several patients daily for free who can’t afford to pay him, figuring God will pay him back. 44 CHALDEAN NEWS DECEMBER 2011
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