My name is Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis, and I want to speak directly to the Somali community. Whether you come from Mogadishu, Getawe, Pargesa, Bosaso, Medoa, or Kismayo, Minneapolis is your city. You are a vital part of the fabric that makes our city strong, diverse, and united.
No matter what policies may be introduced by President Donald Trump, Minneapolis stands with you and values who you are and what you bring to our city. I wish you all Eid Mubarak, and I hope you have a wonderful time with your loved ones.
Donald Trump’s justification for the travel ban hinges on one Egyptian national who allowed his hatred for Netanyahu’s actions to spill over into violence against innocent Jewish people in Colorado. That logic is dangerous. Holding entire nations accountable for the actions of a few individuals is the very same fallacy.
Here in Minneapolis, people of every background have broken the law, and when they do, we hold them accountable as individuals. That’s how justice works. Cutting off an entire diaspora from its roots doesn’t keep anyone safe. It only deepens division at a time when connection is more important than ever.
The bond between Somalia and Minneapolis is longstanding and it’s deep. We will not let Donald Trump’s bans alienate our Somali residents, our neighbors, and friends whom we love.