“I am sure that you will manage to keep them alive, because even though you live beyond our shores, you remain Maltese at heart,” he said.

Michigan is home to the largest Maltese community in the United States: more than 13,000 people of Maltese descent, many of whom are second, third, and possibly even fourth Maltese generation.

Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, Senator Darrin Camilleri, and Michigan Supreme Court Judge Brian K. Zahra were all present at the gatherings. All of them are of Maltese descent and made considerable names for themselves in their professional fields, in the US and internationally.

In his speech, which he opened with a few words in Maltese, the President encouraged the use of Maltese to communicate, where possible, especially with younger generations.

“Our language is a unique treasure that we all – you included – need to safeguard it”, he said,  while inviting the Maltese community to follow and get involved in the ‘l-ilsien Malti għal qalbi’ campaign.

The Maltese community in Michigan celebrates Maltese American Heritage Day, which was established by a resolution at the initiative of Senator Darrin Camilleri, on September 22.

To find out more about the US’ largest Maltese diaspora, check out this exclusive documentary that delves into the lives of the thriving Maltese community in Motown America: From Malta To Motor City,  from director and producer Charlie Cauchi.

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