Statement on the President’s Attacks on the Somali Community in Minnesota

Since the current presidential administration took office in January of this year, its officials have consistently used both policy and rhetoric to attack immigrants and refugees.

In recent weeks, the president and his allies have targeted the Somali, Burmese, and Afghan communities with hateful, harmful language.

On December 2, the president made some of his most incendiary and vitriolic remarks about the Somali community in Minnesota while his administration is purported to be planning a targeted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation against the community. This is one week after he announced plans to revoke Temporary Protected Status for Somali residents living in Minnesota.

While this is not the first instance of the president or his allies targeting immigrants, we know that their attempts to scapegoat entire communities are not based in fact and only sow division to further separate our nation. His words and policies are rooted in destructive falsehoods that do not represent reality.

The International Institute of Minnesota condemns this harmful rhetoric that is being used by those in power to dehumanize, vilify, and demean immigrants and refugees. We also oppose the anti-immigration policy changes and immigration enforcement operations that have accompanied the persistent verbal attacks on New Americans by the president’s administration.

For over 106 years, the Institute has welcomed and provided a safe space for New Americans. Annually, we serve thousands of immigrants and refugees from over a hundred different countries. What we see daily is communities of people from all over the world who are looking to create a new life and contribute to their new home in Minnesota. They bring fresh perspectives, talents, and skills that strengthen our state and create a better place for us all.

Whether New Americans are from Somalia, Burma, Afghanistan, or anywhere else, we see firsthand how their contributions enrich our community and refute the untruths being told by our presidential administration.

We stand with the Somali community, and all immigrants and refugees in Minnesota and across our country, and we are asking you to do the same.

About the International Institute of Minnesota

For over half a century, the International Institute of Minnesota has successfully welcomed more than 26,000 refugees to our state. Founded in 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota offers New Americans quality services that support their journey to stability and success. The Institute’s comprehensive offerings include refugee resettlement, English education, workforce and leadership development, college preparation and immigration and citizenship assistance. The Institute is recognized as Minnesota’s leading charitable organization dedicated to helping New Americans rebuild their lives while pursuing their personal and professional goals.

Contributions to the International Institute of Minnesota help us fund and provide services during times of uncertainty. The Institute is grateful for the community’s support in standing with New Americans so they can find safety, stability and success. Our mission will remain possible because of the community’s generosity.

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