MN Lt. Gov. Donns Muslim Attire, Commits to Supporting Somali Immigrants

Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor Engages Somali Community

Peggy Flanagan, Minnesota’s lieutenant governor, recently shared a heartfelt message on her Somali-language YouTube channel. Dressed in traditional Islamic attire, she communicated her support for Somali immigrants, saying, “I’m rooting for you.”

Flanagan has been serving alongside Democratic Governor Tim Walz since their initial election together in 2018. Interestingly, while she often connects with the Somali community, she is not Muslim; instead, she is a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe Native Americans.

With President Trump’s administration highlighting concerns about fraud and misuse of welfare funds linked to Somali immigrants in Minnesota, it seems Flanagan aimed to provide reassurance. She stated, “Salam Alaikum. My name is Peggy Flanagan. I’m the lieutenant governor of Minnesota, and I’m truly honored and humbled to be here with you today.” She emphasized the importance of the Somali community as part of Minnesota’s identity.

Reflecting on her long-time friendship with a member of the Somali community, Flanagan said, “I think back to my friendship with Nimco. We’ve been friends for almost 25 years.” Interestingly, while she indicated that the Somali presence in Minnesota has been long-standing, it’s worth noting that most arrived in the 1990s, a time when Flanagan was already in her teenage years.

Continuing her message, Flanagan expressed her solidarity with the community, stating, “I want our community to know that we are with you and have your back.” She encouraged local support for Somali businesses, acknowledging that tough times bring fear but also highlighting the care and support from others in the community.

As she wrapped up her remarks, Flanagan reiterated her commitment: “I will continue to stand with the Somali community, be with you, and do everything I can to repay the friendship and community that the Somali community has shown me.”

In a notable context, Flanagan appeared in the video alongside Ali Ghashan, also known as Yusuf Ali, who heads the controversial nonprofit Volunteers for Somalia. This organization faced scrutiny in connection with a large fraud case involving Feeding Our Future, which aimed to support underprivileged Somali children before its shutdown.

Flanagan’s own educational journey has had its ups and downs. She has mentioned earning a modest GPA of 1.75 in high school, but she later flourished in college, obtaining a degree in American Indian Studies with a focus on child psychology and Ojibwe history from the University of Minnesota.