Somali-Americans in Minnesota have told of their heightened fear after US President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of the community this week. Community leaders stated that the 'apprehension is palpable' following Trump's remarks in which he said he did not want Somalis in the US, adding that the country would 'go the wrong way if we keep taking in garbage'. 'When you're being targeted by the president of the United States, it's not really a good feeling,' said Aj Awed from the Cedar-Riverside Community Council.
Worries have compounded with reports of ongoing enforcement operations in Minnesota specifically targeting undocumented migrants. Awed indicated that the council is contemplating the safety risks of holding their annual event next week amidst these developments.
Mr. Awed expressed concern for long-term residents who may be caught in the enforcement sweep, saying, 'Just because you have an accent does not make you less American.' Trump's comments were deemed 'dangerous' by Awed, who criticized the president for attacking fellow Americans.
The criticism coincides with ongoing investigations into allegations of fraud involving a charity in Minnesota, in which some members of the Somali community were implicated. While acknowledging that some individuals may commit crimes, local leaders like Jamal Osman stress that an entire community should not be vilified for the actions of a few.
Despite the fears, community organizations are preparing by offering legal observer training and sharing information about their rights. Kowsar Mohamed, a Minneapolis resident, described visible ICE activity in the area, highlighting an urgent need for community vigilance. 'Is there fear? Absolutely. But no one is tucking behind their tail,' she stated.
Worries have compounded with reports of ongoing enforcement operations in Minnesota specifically targeting undocumented migrants. Awed indicated that the council is contemplating the safety risks of holding their annual event next week amidst these developments.
Mr. Awed expressed concern for long-term residents who may be caught in the enforcement sweep, saying, 'Just because you have an accent does not make you less American.' Trump's comments were deemed 'dangerous' by Awed, who criticized the president for attacking fellow Americans.
The criticism coincides with ongoing investigations into allegations of fraud involving a charity in Minnesota, in which some members of the Somali community were implicated. While acknowledging that some individuals may commit crimes, local leaders like Jamal Osman stress that an entire community should not be vilified for the actions of a few.
Despite the fears, community organizations are preparing by offering legal observer training and sharing information about their rights. Kowsar Mohamed, a Minneapolis resident, described visible ICE activity in the area, highlighting an urgent need for community vigilance. 'Is there fear? Absolutely. But no one is tucking behind their tail,' she stated.
