An apparent arrest of a Rochester man has stirred fear in the Somali community as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s recent surge of arrests expands beyond the Twin Cities.
Educator and author Marian Hassan captures the oral history and lullabies of Somali culture. Through her “Sing Again” project, she has recorded and documented many songs in their original tongue.
Augsburg University president Paul Pribbenow said the school will now be locking more buildings so that ICE agents cannot enter without a warrant. Federal officials say university staff “attempted to obstruct the arrest.”
Minnesota immigrant-rights groups say they’re being inundated with alerts as ICE steps up arrests and enforcement operations, stretching volunteer networks and heightening fear in local communities.
President Donald Trump’s anti-Somali rhetoric has frightened students, families and staff across the state. Minnesota school leaders say they’re connecting families to legal resources and enforcing policies to keep students safe at school.
Immigration authorities have released details of the arrests of 19 people since a stepped-up operation in Minnesota began last week, although the full scope of the surge remains a point of dispute.
State Sen. Jim Abeler, R-Anoka, wrote a letter inviting President Donald Trump to join him in meeting with the Somali community, to understand how Somalis are “woven into Minnesota’s fabric.”
The Supreme Court will ultimately decide whether to uphold the longstanding principle that grants citizenship to the children of non-citizens born in the U.S., following a legal challenge by the Trump administration.
The Muslim Coalition of ISAIAH will host a community gathering and potluck in northwest Rochester on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 3 to 4 p.m. at 125 LIVE River Rooms on Elton Hill Drive, celebrating and honoring Somali culture and contributions.
When it comes to staying informed in Minnesota, our newsletters overdeliver. Sign-up now for headlines, breaking news, hometown stories, weather and much more. Delivered weekday mornings.