Mark Savaya and President Trump (Photo from Savaya's Linkedin page)
President Donald Trump announced Sunday that he has appointed Metro Detroit cannabis businessman Mark Savaya, a Chaldean, as a special envoy to Iraq.
Savaya is the owner of Leaf and Bud, a local chain of medical and recreational marijuana stores in Detroit, Hazel Park, and Center Line.
“I’m pleased to announce Mark Savaya will serve as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq,” Trump said in a posting on Truth Social. “Mark’s deep understanding of the Iraq–U.S. relationship and his connections in the region will help advance the interests of the American people. Mark was a key player in my campaign in Michigan, where he and others helped secure a record vote among Muslim Americans. Congratulations, Mark!”
Chaldeans are Christians with roots in Iraq. Many fled Iraq over the years because of persecution and settled in Metro Detroit.
Derek Dickow, a prominent member of the Metro Detroit Chaldean community, and founder of Power Connections, which helps businesses raise their profile and generate more revenue, tells Deadline Detroit:
"Mark Savaya is a metro-Detroit businessman and a proud member of the Chaldean (Iraqi Christian) community. Mark was born in Baghdad, Iraq and his family moved to America for better opportunities. As he became a successful entrepreneur, he gave back generously to the community and local charities."
"I know Mark to be passionate about American values and an ardent supporter of President Trump for many years. Mark worked tirelessly throughout President Trump’s campaigns and developed close relationships with President Trump and within the president’s inner circles."
"In recent years, and through the leadership of Martin Manna, president of the Chaldean Community Foundation, the Iraqi government has made significant commitments to support indigenous Christians of Iraq."
The Chaldean Center of Chicago issued a statement on Instagram:
"We are proud to see a dedicated member of our Chaldean community recognized for his leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to strengthening relationships that uplift both our people and our homeland."
