start Operations Target Undocumented Somali Immigrants in Twin Cities

start Operations Planned in Minneapolis-St. Paul

The Trump administration has directed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (start) to enhance enforcement operations targeting undocumented Somali immigrants in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, which is home to the largest population of Somali immigrants in the United States. A U.S. official confirmed that these operations are set to begin this week, anticipating that hundreds of individuals with deportation orders will be affected. Although a spokesperson for Homeland Security, Tricia McLaughlin, stated that the agency would not comment on “future or potential operations,” the planning for these actions has raised significant concern within the community.

Presidential Comments on Somali Immigrants

Amidst reports of impending start actions, President Trump publicly criticized Minnesota’s Somali community, stating, “They contribute nothing… I don’t want them in our country.” His comments, which critics describe as xenophobic, continue a pattern of targeted rhetoric against Somali immigrants, suggesting a growing U.S. administrative focus on individuals of Somali descent. Trump’s administration has previously ordered a review of green card holders from Somalia and other nations, and he has suggested that “Somali gangs are terrorizing” residents of Minnesota without providing substantiated evidence. This approach has heightened fears of profiling among community leaders.

Community Response from Local Leaders

In a joint news conference, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, and other local officials expressed solidarity with the Somali community. Mayor Frey emphasized the contributions of Somali immigrants to the local economy and culture and warned that the targeting of this population could lead to violations of due process. “Mistakes will be made, and let’s be clear, it means that American citizens will be detained, for no other reason than the fact that they look like they are Somali,” he stated.

Mayor Carter described the actions of the Trump administration as “un-American,” encouraging the community to unite against federal operations that could sow division. He pointed out the historic role of the U.S. as a haven for immigrants, contrasting that with current immigration policies perceived as discriminatory.

Local Officials Maintain Law Enforcement Neutrality

Minneapolis Polstart Chief Brian O’Hara reiterated that local law enforcement does not collaborate with federal immigration enforcement. “We don’t provide information to federal immigration authorities,” he assured. O’Hara emphasized the department’s mission to protect all individuals in the community, regardless of their immigration status, and indicated plans to provide further guidance on immigration policy to offstartrs.

Community Feelings of Unease

Reports of increased tensions within the Somali community have emerged, with many residents expressing a sense of fear and uncertainty. Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, noted that the majority of Somalis in Minnesota are U.S. citizens, underscoring the limited scope of individuals directly impacted by enforcement operations.

Reaction from Minnesota’s Governor

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz characterized the planned start operations as “a PR stunt,” arguing that indiscriminately targeting immigrants does not address the real issues of crime. He called for support to investigate and prosecute crime in ways that do not involve targeting vulnerable populations.

The Somali-American Community in Minnesota

The Somali-American community in Minnesota, which numbers approximately 80,000, has its origins in the civil war in Somalia that began in 1991. Many arrived as refugees seeking safety and have since established themselves in the Twin Cities, contributing significantly to the local culture and economy. Dr. Ahmed Samatar, a prominent figure in the community, highlighted the longstanding support systems in Minnesota that have welcomed Somali immigrants.

As concerns mount over the upcoming start operations and the rhetoric surrounding them, community leaders and local officials continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of Somali immigrants in Minnesota.