'Not becoming of a president': Somali-Americans respond to Trump's 'garbage' remarks

December 4, 2025

Somali-American communities in Minnesota are experiencing heightened anxiety following President Trump's escalating attacks on their population, including statements that he doesn't want Somalis in the country and characterizing immigrants as "garbage. " The president's remarks came while discussing fraud allegations involving a COVID-19 relief program where some Somali immigrants were among dozens charged in a scheme that cost the state millions, though those accused represent only a tiny fraction of Minnesota's large Somali community. The Trump administration has simultaneously ended Temporary Protected Status for Somali residents and launched immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota, leading to reports of people being stopped on the streets.

Who is affected

Somali-American communities in Minnesota, particularly the 80,000+ people of Somali descent in Minneapolis
Residents of Cedar-Riverside (known as Little Mogadishu)
Somali immigrants who had Temporary Protected Status
Long-term Somali residents and naturalized citizens who speak English with accents
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz (subject of investigation and calls for resignation)
Individuals charged in the COVID-19 relief fraud scheme

What action is being taken

ICE is conducting enforcement operations in Minnesota targeting undocumented immigrants with final deportation orders
The House Oversight Committee is investigating Governor Walz's handling of the relief scheme
The Trump administration is investigating claims about Minnesota tax dollars being funneled to al-Shabab
Community organizations are providing legal observer training in Minneapolis
Community members are establishing emergency contact systems and sharing information about ICE activity through private messaging groups
The Cedar-Riverside Community Council is discussing whether to hold their annual event in-person

Why it matters

This situation represents a significant escalation in immigration enforcement targeting a specific ethnic community, creating a climate of fear that extends beyond undocumented immigrants to long-term residents and naturalized citizens. The presidential rhetoric directly attacking an entire community based on the actions of a few individuals has emboldened enforcement actions and risks stigmatizing an entire population of over 80,000 people. The situation raises concerns about racial profiling, due process, and the potential for mistakes in enforcement, while also affecting civic participation as communities reconsider holding public events out of safety concerns.

What's next

The Cedar-Riverside Community Council will decide whether to hold their annual event scheduled for next week
The House Oversight Committee investigation into Governor Walz will continue
The Trump administration investigation into alleged connections to al-Shabab will proceed
Community organizations have scheduled legal observer training sessions in Minneapolis

Read full article from source: BBC