Somali Media MN reports:
Saint Cloud, Minnesota — In a significant political move, a coalition
of over 35 Somali Imams, religious scholars, and community leaders has
publicly endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket during a gathering in Saint
Cloud. This diverse group, representing various voices from Minnesota’s
Somali community, voiced urgent concerns about the implications of a
potential second Trump presidency for American Muslims, urging the
community to unite in support of the Harris-Walz candidacy to safeguard
their rights.
The meeting, which marked the third gathering of the
coalition this year, focused on key voting priorities for American
Muslims both in Minnesota and nationally. The leaders expressed profound
distress regarding the ongoing violence in Gaza and Lebanon, advocating
for an immediate ceasefire, improved access to humanitarian aid, an end
to the Israeli occupation, and the recognition of Palestinians’ right
to self-determination.
While the coalition stands firmly behind
the Harris-Walz ticket, they also articulated strong opposition to
certain policies concerning Gaza and Lebanon. Nonetheless, they
maintained that the policies of former President Donald Trump pose an
even greater threat to the rights and dignity of marginalized
communities, both within the United States and internationally.
“Donald
Trump is actively promoting division and hatred, from his racist Muslim
travel ban to his extremist Project 2025 plan,” stated Imam Mohamed
Mukhtar. “We cannot stand by while he threatens our brothers and sisters
in Palestine and fuels Islamophobia.”
It is important to note
that the leaders within this coalition are operating independently and
do not represent any specific organization.
These are prominent and respected persons in Minnesota's Somali community. As expected they are disappointed with Middle East events. Yet they are united in seeing Trump as inimical to their best interest. Fueling Islamophobia seems a justified criticism although the tenor of the Republican ticket seems more against Hispanic migration into the nation this election cycle.
The message is urging those of Islamic faith to set aside unhappiness with Middle East current suffering in favor of long term considerations. It seems a weighed endorsement. Whether the Palestinian community in Michigan hears and embraces this Minnesota hedged endorsement will be seen in weeks.
The endorsement will resonate with Minnesota's Somali residents. Victory for Democratic Party Representive Ilhen Omar in MN CD5 is likely in her seeking reelection. There is a large Somali presence in her District.
UPDATE: Not only is Trump promoting division and hatred. He has Stephen Miller who if winning he'd promote to his Secretary of Hate. With a mandate. And a slogan. "Hate, as you decimate."