I've been rather down lately so I feel like I am in the right mood to write about this subject.
It's that time of year again… the seasons are changing and Labor Day weekend will be here before we know it. But just what am I referring to? Brace yourselves…
- Who?
Assyrians. (Note: Just what the term Assyrian means is quite a mystery to even those who profess to be a member of the group). - What??
A convention. At conventions, people convene. They gather, often for a specific purpose. The dictionary definition of convention is the following: a. A formal meeting of members, representatives, or delegates, as of a political party, fraternal society, profession, or industry. b. The body of persons attending such an assembly: called the convention to order. - Where??
Usually it rotates between Chicago, Detroit, and California. (Alternatively called Shit-cago, Deey-troy-it, and Cali-Kharra). - When??
During that weekend at the end of August and beginning of September. - Why??
It depends on who you ask. - How??
Untold thousands of Assyrians will cram into dance and banquet halls, hotel lobbies, bars, and restaurants.
So, now that we have covered the basics, it appears as though we are back where we started. I'm thinking that these seven fundamental questions above will take us on a journey of several installments where we can analyze not only "Assyrian" conventions, but the community behind them, if you will call it that.
Until next time, I remain very truly yours in anonymity.