MINNEAPOLIS – President Trump's recent remarks regarding the Somali community in the U.S. have ignited significant backlash, particularly from members of Minnesota's large Somali population. During a Tuesday Cabinet meeting, the President stated, 'They contribute nothing. I don’t want them in our country,' while expressing opposition to Somali immigrants.
He further asserted, 'Somalians should be out of here. They’ve destroyed our country,' escalating tensions and inciting criticism from local leaders. Hamse Warfe, a Somali-born entrepreneur, expressed his frustration, stating, 'I am not garbage,' emphasizing the contributions of the Somali community.
With approximately 84,000 people of Somali descent, the Minneapolis-St. Paul area has become a significant hub for Somali immigrants since the 1990s, drawn by the region's social services and community support. The ongoing debate intensified following Trump's recent immigration directives targeting undocumented immigrants from Somalia.
Local leaders, including city officials and community advocates, have risen to defend the Somali population against what they deem harmful rhetoric from the administration. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey affirmed the city’s commitment to its residents, declaring, 'Minneapolis is – and will remain – a city that stands up for our residents.' Following Trump's comments, community leaders have pledged to counter the narratives that seek to blame the Somali community for broader societal issues.
