For thousands of years the language of Aramaic has existed, descended from Sumerian and Akkadian roots. The language is still spoken by the Chaldean Assyrian Syriac people today, and is one of the four recognized languages in the Iraqi constitution under Syriac (Eastern dialect of Aramaic). The University of Detroit Mercy has recently established an Aramaic course teaching how to speak, read and write Aramaic, as well as studies pertaining to culture and history. The class starts January 17th and is taught by Mahir Awrahem, who is also a professor at Baker College. The 15-week is an introductory course open to all college and high school students. Prof. Awrahem is excited for the start of the program, _When I lived in Iraq, there was no such thing as learning Aramaic in schools; I am excited to be teaching the language of Christ especially at the University level. According to Lawrence Mansour, Director of Ishtar Cultural Center, _The establishment of the Aramaic class is only the first step to promoting awareness of the language and history of the indigenous people of Iraq.
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