President Donald Trump’s recent attacks on Somali immigrants in Minnesota, along with federal enforcement actions and the ending of important legal protections, have raised concerns in the Twin Cities’ Somali community, the largest in the U.S.
These actions have become a central issue in the administration’s immigration agenda, where the president has used Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), drawing criticism from state officials and civil rights groups.
During a December Cabinet meeting, Trump described Somali immigrants as “garbage,” alleged that they “contribute nothing,” and claimed Somali residents had financially exploited Minnesota. The remarks followed weeks of escalating language criticizing Somali migration and referencing high-profile fraud cases in the state. National reporting indicates Trump views Minnesota’s Somali population as a political and security liability, despite the majority being U.S. citizens or long-term legal residents.
The administration’s stance has been reinforced through policy changes. Federal officials recently ended Temporary Protected Status for Somali nationals, removing long-standing legal protections for individuals who fled conflict and instability. The repeal places thousands at risk of deportation after years — in some cases, decades — of lawful presence.
Simultaneously, federal agencies have prepared an immigration enforcement operation centered in Minneapolis–St. Paul. While officials say the effort is targeted at individuals with outstanding removal orders, local leaders warn the scope and rhetoric surrounding the operation could result in profiling or the detention of lawful residents who are Somali or appear Somali.
“Minneapolis is proud to be home to the largest Somali community in the country,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “They are our neighbors, our friends, and our family – and they are welcome in our city. Nothing Donald Trump does will ever change that.”
The City of Minneapolis has a lively Somali-American community. We are proud of their achievements and support our immigrant neighbors. The City reaffirms that it does not collaborate with Immigration ICE on immigration enforcement activities.
“I am proud to say I am a Somali-American. This country welcomed me and my family 26 years ago,” said Council Member Jamal Osman, Ward 6. “I know many families are fearful tonight…but I want you to know that the City of Minneapolis stands behind you. Our community has lived through fear in the past. We’re going to stay informed, we’re going to stay safe, and we’re going to support each other.”
Minnesota is home to an estimated 80,000 or more Somali Americans, with the majority concentrated in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and their surrounding suburbs. The community includes U.S.-born residents, naturalized citizens, refugees, and TPS holders.
I don’t want them in our country,” President Trump said. They are garbage. Their country stinks. Somali refugees are completely taking over the once great State [of Minnesota].”
Somali Minnesotans contribute significantly to local business corridors, health care, transportation, education, and civic life, and state officials note that the vast majority have no ties to the fraud cases cited by the administration.
“Minnesota is a generous state,” explained Governor Tim Walz when asked about fraud allegations. “Minnesota is a prosperous state, but that attracts criminals. Those people are going to jail. But to demonize an entire community on the actions of a few, it’s lazy,”
Minneapolis and St. Paul officials have condemned the president’s language as xenophobic and harmful, warning that broad targeting of ethnic groups undermines public trust and can lead to wrongful arrests. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has criticized the administration’s framing of Somali Minnesotans as a financial drain, calling the claims exaggerated and politically motivated.
City leaders in Minneapolis have reiterated that municipal agencies will not assist in federal immigration raids, citing provisions in the city’s charter and its longstanding policy. Legal organizations and community groups have expanded “know your rights” trainings, hotline support, and legal aid in anticipation of increased enforcement activity.
Advocates warn that the convergence of rhetoric, enforcement, and policy reversals could destabilize a community that has been integrated into Minnesota life for more than three decades. Civil-rights experts note that broad-brush descriptions of entire ethnic communities risk inflaming tensions, dissuading victims of crime from reporting to authorities, and undermining constitutional protections.
As federal actions proceed, Minnesota leaders and community advocates emphasize the need for accurate information, legal preparedness, and community support, and warn that the outcome of this moment may set national precedents for how the United States navigates immigration, identity, and civil rights in diverse communities.
