Like so many, I am deeply saddened by the cruel and false narrative about Somali Americans being spread by the president and other leaders. In my role at Daily Work, I’ve had the honor of meeting countless Somali immigrants that are making enormous contributions to the Twin Cities and beyond.
Hussein Samatar, a Somali refugee who passed away in 2013 from cancer, founded the African Development Center, an important referral source for Daily Work job seekers. Their mission is to help immigrants build wealth through financial literacy and home and business ownership.
Mukhtar Ibrahim, founder of Sahan Journal, and Abdullahi Abdulle, former New Brighton City Council member and a leader in equitable, inclusive decision-making, both responded to my cold call and took time to meet with me in person. Their generosity in sharing their time and insights continue to shape my thinking today.
WCCO Reporter Ubah Ali, covered the first Gratitude Feast in 2023, then jointly hosted by Daily Work and Shobi’s Table. Ibrahim Hirsi is a member of the Daily Work Board and is about to complete his PhD in history. You can read his story in the most recent Daily Work newsletter. We’re thrilled to welcome a new social work intern of Somali heritage in January who is beginning a promising career dedicated to serving others.
These are not isolated examples; they reflect what I, and everyone who shows up at Daily Work, experience every day. The generosity, creativity, and leadership of Minnesota’s Somali and other immigrant community members are everyday realities, not exceptions. They show up for others, found businesses and nonprofits our communities rely on, and strengthen all of us in the process. Our communities are stronger and more resilient because of their talent, leadership, and contributions.
All of us at Daily Work stand in solidarity with Somali communities and all immigrants. We will continue to affirm their contributions, support their journeys, and speak out against rhetoric or policies that deny their rightful place in our communities. Please join us in this effort. Call or write your representatives, attend local meetings, share your support on social media, or get involved with organizations serving immigrant communities.
We are being called to act at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. By standing with immigrant communities, we honor the values of kindness, dignity, and opportunity for all that make our nation stronger.
