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RECOGNIZING MINNESOTA'S 2022 SOMALI-AMERICAN HERITAGE WEEK
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HON. BETTY McCOLLUM
of minnesota
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, July 20, 2022
Ms. McCULLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Minnesota's vibrant Somali-American community and the many cultural, economic and social contributions members make to our state, and in recognition of Somali-American Heritage Week during July 2-17 in Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
The commemoration of Somali Independence Day is marked by Somali Week celebrations in Minnesota, hosted by Rising Impact, a nonprofit dedicated to the safety and success of Somali-American youth in Minnesota. Hosted in locations throughout Saint Paul and Minneapolis, the festivities are a chance to unite and celebrate Minnesota's diversity through a broad range of artistic, cultural and athletic events.
This year the celebrations drew together more than 45,000 participants to enjoy the food, music, dance, films, and the history of the Somali people and the Somali-Americans who call Minnesota home. Some of the most notable events from this year's celebration include a roundtable discussion with the U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Larry E. Andre and community members about ongoing humanitarian relief efforts and the United States support for democracy in Somalia, the ``Xasuuso
(Remember) 1960'' event which tells the story of Somalia's independence, and the Growth Conference, which is a chance for members of the African diaspora to share knowledge and resources to build up minority-owned businesses.
Led by the Somali Week Chairperson, Daud Mohamed, the organizers and volunteers for Somali Week continue to forge strong ties with various community, corporate and government partners to bring this vibrant festival to life each year.
Madam Speaker, Minnesota's Somali community has added greatly to the fabric of our state and our Nation, and they are a prominent part of the diverse community that makes Minnesota a great place to call home. Please join me in paying tribute to the community members who come together each year to celebrate Somali Week, and who work every day to foster, educate, and promote cultural understanding and traditions among all Minnesotans.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 120(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 120(2)
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