Eng. Mohamed A Mire
In recent weeks, international media outlets have reported extensively on the Somali community in Minnesota, USA, as they face heightened targeting by ICE. This wave of hostility follows President Trump`s inflammatory remarks directed at Somalis, spurred largely by the outspoken courage of Rep Ilhan Omar. In his tirade, Trump went so far as to demonize Somali communities, labeling them “garbage,” and disparaging not only Somali- American but Somalia itself.
Such rhetoric is definitely unbecoming of a head of state. Yet before examining the motives behind these baleful attacks, it is worth reminding Trump – and those who share his views on Somalis – who the Somali people truly are, as described by early Europeans and other encounters.
Historical Testimonies of Somali Pride and Strength
Duarte Barbosa, the Portuguese writer and traveler, recorded Somalis as formidable Muslims, astute traders, and fierce defenders of their cities against foreign intrusion.
Richard Burton, a British explorer in 19th century described the Somalis as possessing “fierce and intractable pride” – a quality colonizer misinterpreted as arrogance, but which was in truth self-respect and refusal to submit.
Michael Birch, a British war correspondent observed that Somali nomad “stands before you not as a subject, but as a foreign awaiting explanation,” highlighting their spiritual resilience and unshakable kinship.
Gerald Hanley in his book, in life and Death Among Somalis, wrote that “A Somali always felt himself to be twice as good as any white man, or any other kind of man at all, and still does, even when he is wrong”. Hanely also wrote that Somalis “have no inferiority complexes, no wide-eyed worship of white man`s ways, and no fear of him. They are a race to be admired, if hard to love”
Admiral Zheng He`s in his 15th century voyages, wrote how he was stunned by the beauty of the people he met in Mogadishu. He described how the Somalis were crucial maritime traders who exported goods such as frankincense, myrrh, ivory and exotic animals to China. These records were under Ming and Tang dynasties.
According to the European military accounts, the Dervish resistance againstBritish colonial forces for over two decades demonstrated an exceptional courage, resilience and unwavering belief in the dignity of their people and homeland.
These accounts converge on a single truth: Somalis are people of indomitable pride, resilience, and sovereignty – qualities that can not be erased no matter where they reside.
Why Somalis Are targeted
Trump´s hostility towards Somalis is not merely rooted in Islamophobia and racism, many believe that deeper and political anxieties are at play:
1) Electoral Calculus: Minnesota´s Somali community, numbering over 80 000, overwhelmingly supported Democrats in past elections, led by Elhan Omar´s bold leadership. Trump´s attacks aim at weakening this bloc and tilt Minnesota towards Republican dominance.
2) Fear of Somali Success: Somali-American have excelled in business, politics, and cultural life, often guided by Islamic values. Their success threatens to inspire other marginalized communities, including Afro-Americans, to demand greater equity in white-dominated society.
3) Resentment of Rapid Progress: In just three decades, Somalis in the US have shown resilience, intelligence, unity, and influence – qualities long recognized by history. Ilhan Omer`s rise from a 12-year-old refugee to a US Congresswoman embodies this trajectory, and Trump`s resentment reflects his discomfort with such success.
Somali Unity: A historical Constant
Somalis have always unitedin the face of externalthreats. From the Dervish movement led by Sayid Mohamed Abille Hassan – dismissed by the British as the “Mad Mullah” but revered as national hero – to Ilhan Omer`s fearless defiance in the US congress, Somali leaders emerge as vanguards whenever their people are challenged. This unity is not new; it is woven into Somali identity.
A blessing in Disguise
What may appear as a blow to the Somalis, may in fact become a blessing. It is clear that Trump`s hostility towards Somalis has galvanized Somali unity, strengthened global identity and inspired renewed pride particularly among the young educated in the US and elsewhere. Many Somalis are now considering to return home, bringing with them expertise, experience and wealth to rebuild their nation.
Already, Somalia is laying the groundwork for the returnees:
In Garowe, the capital of Puntland a multi-million USD housing projects by Amal real estate and Guryosamo are under construction. Recently a 500-million USD housing project has been launched.
In Hargeisa similar projects are in progress and in Lasanod, the capital city of Northeast state, real estate developments and new hotels are transforming the urban landscape. In nationwide, infrastructure projects signal a new era of Somalis weary of residing abroad for many years.
Many Somalis now believe that Trump´s tirade, intended to demean the Somalis may actually empower the Somalis. It has reminded the whole world their history, resilience, and dignity. Far from being “garbage,” Somalis are people of courage, pride, and sovereignty – qualities that have endured for centuries and will continue to shape their destiny in Minnesota and in Somalia itself.
Mohamed A Mire
Email: m.mmirreh@gmail.com