Bill > SR0700

This resolution declares April 2026 as Assyrian Heritage Month in the State of Illinois, recognizing the Assyrian people, who also identify as Chaldeans and Syriacs, as indigenous to Mesopotamia with a history dating back to ancient times. It acknowledges their resilience in the face of historical persecution, including the Assyrian Genocide of 1915 and the Simele Massacre of 1933, and highlights their significant presence in Illinois, which hosts the largest Assyrian population in the United States. The resolution commends the Assyrian community for their rich cultural contributions to various fields such as arts, business, and education, and notes that the Assyrian New Year, Akitu, traditionally celebrated on April 1st, symbolizes rebirth and renewal, aligning with planned festivals in Chicago and Skokie in April 2026.