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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has praised the state’s Somali community for their significant contributions to Minnesota’s cultural and demographic landscape. In a speech delivered on July 1, 2021, to mark Somali Independence Day, Walz highlighted that Minnesota is home to the largest Somali population in the United States. He acknowledged the “vast contributions” the community has made, noting that their influence on the state’s culture and demographics is “invaluable.”
Tim Walz and Engagement with the Somali Community
Throughout his tenure, Governor Walz has actively engaged with the Somali community, which has led to some controversy. In 2023, critics accused Walz of changing Minnesota’s state flag to resemble the Somali flag. The new flag, which replaced the traditional design featuring a Native American and a white farmer, was implemented by Democrats without Republican support. The official reason for the change was that the previous flag was considered offensive by some.
Representative Ilhan Omar’s Role
Representative Ilhan Omar, a prominent Somali-American politician and Minnesota resident, has also been a vocal advocate for the Somali community. Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, Omar is one of the most recognized figures within the community. In a January 2024 speech to fellow Somalis, she emphasized her commitment to her ethnic group, describing Somalis as “people of the same blood” who prioritize their identity as Somalis and Muslims. Omar also stated her intent to “protect the interests of Somalia from inside the U.S. system.”
Challenges Facing the Somali Community according to Tim Walz
Despite the contributions of the Somali community, census data has shown that Somalis have the highest unemployment rates among Minnesota’s five largest immigrant groups in recent years. This highlights ongoing challenges within the community as they continue to integrate and contribute to the state’s economy and society.