Somali-Americans in Minnesota have reported a significant increase in fear and anxiety following U.S. President Donald Trump's recent comments targeting their community. Local leaders describe a sense of palpable apprehension as Trump stated, 'I don't want them in our country' and dismissed the Somali nation.
Aj Awed, executive director of the Cedar-Riverside Community Council—known for its large Somali population—expressed that targeting by the president leads to an unsettling feeling among constituents. Additionally, there are reports of federal officials conducting enforcement operations to round up undocumented immigrants in the area.
Concern has escalated as Awed noted the council is weighing the risks of holding their annual community event in light of these enforcement actions. 'Sometimes, it's people who've been living here for decades and simply struggle with language,' he shared. 'Their accent does not make them less American.'
Critics have condemned Trump's comments as harmful, with Awed labeling them 'dangerous' and inappropriate for a sitting president. The sentiment is echoed by Jamal Osman, a member of the Minneapolis City Council, who emphasized that not all should be blamed for the actions of a few. The Somali community is rallying to educate members about their rights and prepare for potential ICE interactions.
Cases surrounding fraudulent activity during the pandemic have led to heightened scrutiny of the community, with Trump accusing Minnesota of harboring corrupt individuals. Yet community leaders argue that painting the actions of a few onto an entire group leads to unwarranted fear, stressing the importance of unity amidst adversity.
Local organizations are actively working to inform residents of their rights with initiatives like 'legal observer training' in response to increasing enforcement operations. People are encouraged to keep emergency contacts on hand and use mobile groups to communicate regarding ICE activity. Kowsar Mohamed, a community figure, remarked on the current climate, stating, 'Everyone is going to be in the space of caution. But no one is tucking behind their tail.'
