Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (D) marked Somali Independence Day, expressing support for the Somali immigrant community in the city.
In a post on X, Frey shared a video where he referred to the Somali community in Minneapolis as a “family” instead of just immigrants. He noted that Minneapolis is proud to honor the “resiliency, culture, and leadership” that contribute to the city’s enrichment.
“We’ve all witnessed tough times, and through events like Operation Metro Surge, it’s clear they stand with us,” Frey remarked. “In Minneapolis, we love our neighbors and don’t see you merely as immigrants; you’re family.”
Frey added, “You are our brothers and sisters. Your contributions to this great city are immense, and we stand beside you.”
Kare11 News states that Somalia Independence Day is celebrated on July 1st, symbolizing “the unity of the Somali people in their quest to liberate themselves from European colonial rule.”
Many, including conservative commentator Matt Van Swole and journalist Nick Souter, took to social media to highlight that “Minnesota’s Somali community has allegedly misappropriated $250 million from federal child nutrition programs.”
Van Swole emphasized this claim in a post on X, saying, “This money was supposed to feed hungry children.”
Souter questioned in a tweet, “Do you truly believe Somalis view you as anything other than a useful tool?”
Dustin Grage, a Town Hall columnist, echoed sentiments about Frey’s remarks, stating in a post, “America: 4, Somalia: 10.”
Another user asked, “Minnesota taxpayers, do you feel rich?”
Amy Farr from Breitbart News reported in November 2025 that Frey faced backlash after delivering a victory speech in Somalia following his re-election.
In April, over 20 locations, including child care centers, were investigated in Minneapolis due to suspicions of fraud connected to Somali-owned businesses.
Citizen journalist Nick Shirley previously shared a video from a child care facility in Minnesota that had reportedly received millions in federal support, noting that no children were present during his visit.
