As the Assyrian New Year approaches each year, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride in my heritage. This year, like every year, marks a moment to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going as a community. As a proud Assyrian and a dentist in Arlington Heights, I’m always reminded of the strength, resilience, and unity that define us.
A Celebration of Our Shared History
The Assyrian New Year, also known as Akitu, is a reminder of our rich, ancient culture that has stood the test of time. From the lands between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers to the bustling streets of Chicago, Assyrians across the globe pause to honor our ancestors and the contributions they made to the world. Our history spans thousands of years—from the first known legal codes to innovations in agriculture and architecture. This New Year is a moment to celebrate all that we’ve achieved, and most importantly, to ensure that our legacy continues for generations to come.
Dr. Poles at the 2025 Assyrian Renaissance Cultural Celebration
This year, the Assyrian Renaissance Cultural Celebration provided a unique opportunity to connect with our vibrant heritage and immerse ourselves in the beauty of Assyrian culture. I had the honor of attending this incredible event from March 28-30 at The Westin O’Hare in Chicago, where the community came together to celebrate our roots through music, art, and history.
A Three-Day Celebration of Assyrian Heritage
The event was a true testament to the resilience and spirit of the Assyrian people, featuring soul-stirring performances, captivating art exhibitions, and insightful lectures from esteemed scholars. From the Music & Dance Nights to the art exhibitions and academic lectures, it was a remarkable way to learn, enjoy, and celebrate Assyrian culture.
For me, it was not just a time of celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the strength of our community and the importance of preserving our heritage for future generations. It was heartening to see so many familiar faces come together, united by our shared history and love for our culture.
A Renewed Commitment to Heritage
Attending the Assyrian Renaissance reminded me of the power of cultural celebrations and how they help us stay connected to our roots. As a dentist serving the Arlington Heights community, I’m proud to be part of a community that values both tradition and progress, and this event beautifully reflected that balance. We’re committed to carrying our heritage forward while embracing the opportunities that our adopted country provides.
The cultural performances and exhibits truly left an impact, and I’m looking forward to bringing that same energy and passion to my work in the community, ensuring that the spirit of our ancestors continues to thrive in everything we do.
A Legacy of Unity and Hope
What makes the Assyrian New Year so special is the way it brings our community together to celebrate not only our rich past but also our shared future. This year’s Assyrian Renaissance Cultural Celebration was a perfect example of how we continue to support and uplift each other. The event, filled with music, art, and insightful lectures, reminded us of the strength that comes from staying connected to our heritage and our community.
At its core, the celebration was about family, unity, and resilience—the qualities that have carried us through centuries. It’s a reminder that we are never alone in our journey, and that by embracing both our roots and the opportunities around us, we can create new traditions that future generations will carry forward. Together, we continue to honor our legacy while building a future that’s brighter than ever.
Looking to the Future
As we mark the new year, we also look ahead. Our community continues to grow, adapt, and contribute in countless ways. At Omni Dental, we embrace this same spirit of progress and innovation. Just as our ancestors were pioneers in their time, we strive to bring the latest dental technologies and best practices to our patients in Arlington Heights and beyond. We understand that just as our culture evolves, so too does the way we care for our health. We are proud to serve as a trusted healthcare provider in the community, always committed to offering personalized, advanced care to help every patient smile with confidence.
A Message for the Next Generation
As I reflect on the Assyrian New Year, I think about my children and the generations that will follow. It is important to pass down our traditions, our stories, and our values. But it’s also vital to teach them the importance of embracing change, of moving forward while never forgetting where they came from. The Assyrian New Year isn’t just a celebration of the past—it’s a promise to the future, a promise that our culture will continue to thrive, and that our community will stay united in the face of whatever challenges lie ahead.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Together
The Assyrian New Year is not just a time to celebrate—it’s a time to reflect, to renew our commitment to one another, and to honor the legacy of those who have come before us. As we move forward, let’s carry our traditions proudly and continue building a future where our culture remains as vibrant and resilient as ever. At Omni Dental, we are honored to be part of this incredible community and look forward to continuing to serve and support it for many years to come.
Here’s to a bright new year, filled with hope, resilience, and a commitment to our shared journey.
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