Minnesota's Somali Community: A Story of Resilience and Challenge

Minnesota is home to the largest Somali community in the U. S. This group has faced harsh words from President Trump. He recently called them "garbage" and said they should leave the country. He also claimed they have "destroyed" the U. S. and do nothing but complain. Trump's comments came after he threatened to remove legal protections for Somali migrants in Minnesota. He and other conservatives have used reports of fraud in Minnesota's social services to criticize the entire Somali community. Now, immigration enforcement plans to target Minnesota's Somali population. About 80, 000 Somalis live in Minnesota, mostly in the Twin Cities. Their journey began in the late 1990s. At that time, Somalia was in civil war. Many Somalis fled the country. Some found work in a meat-packing plant in Marshall, a town west of Minneapolis. As word spread, more Somalis came to the region. They worked in various industries, forming a strong community. Minnesota's reputation for hospitality attracted many Somali refugees. The state's liberal values aligned with their own. However, the transition wasn't always easy. Some faced challenges practicing their Islamic faith. Others struggled with the community's association with Islamic extremism. Despite these challenges, the Somali community has grown and contributed to Minnesota. They serve their community and the state. One notable example is Rep. Ilhan Omar. She fled Somalia as a child and came to the U. S. as a refugee. In 2018, she became the first Somali American elected to Congress. Trump has also targeted Omar. He said she shouldn't be a congresswoman and should be removed from the country. Omar responded to Trump's comments, calling his obsession with her "creepy. " She also hoped he would get the help he needs. The Somali community feels under attack by the Trump administration. However, they have support from city leaders in the Twin Cities. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter stand with them. The community is facing these challenges, but they are not alone.