The Center for Strategic Policy and Development (CSPD) shares its deep concern over the recent
public remarks and social messaging that unfairly target and undermine the dignity of Somali
Americans. Words that paint an entire community as dangerous, inferior, or untrustworthy are
not simply offensive, they threaten people’s sense of safety, belonging, and humanity.
Somali Americans are our neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family members. They have
worked hard to build good lives for themselves and their children, often overcoming trauma,
displacement, and discrimination. Treating them as political talking points or using their identity
to stir fear is harmful and unjust. No community deserves to be spoken about in a way that strips
them of their humanity.
Somali Americans have earned every right to be proud
Across this country, Somali Americans contribute quietly and selflessly every single day. They
teach our children in K–12 schools and lecture at respected universities. They care for our loved
ones as nurses, doctors, home health aides, mental health counselors, and hospital workers. They
serve as engineers, city workers, warehouse employees, and small farmers who help feed and
sustain local economies. They hold positions of responsibility in banking, real estate,
transportation, and logistics.
They serve honorably in the military and in law enforcement. They run small businesses that
keep neighborhoods vibrant. Many Somali Americans serve in local, state, and federal
government, taking part in the democratic life of this nation. Others are community leaders,
youth mentors, social workers, journalists, and faith leaders who dedicate themselves to healing
and bringing people together.
These are not abstract roles, they are real people who wake up early, work long hours, raise
families, and contribute to their communities with humility. Their presence in nearly every sector
of American life speaks louder than any negative rhetoric ever could.
A Call for Patience, Steadfastness, and Hope
CSPD encourages Somali Americans consistent with their faith and cultural teachings to remain
steadfast, calm, and patient in times of hardship and public hostility. When calamity strikes,
patience is not weakness; it is dignity.
Steadfastness does not mean silence; it means responding without losing one’s moral compass or
sense of humanity. The Somali community has endured many challenges, war, displacement,
discrimination, and cultural misunderstanding, yet continues to show grace, resilience, and a
deep commitment to lawful coexistence. Somali Americans should remain proud of their history,
their sacrifices, and their achievements. Harmful comments do not define who they are. Their
everyday contributions, their values, and their children’s futures do.
Leaders must choose words carefully
CSPD respectfully calls on elected officials, public figures, and media outlets to be mindful of
the power of their words. Language matters. When entire communities are described in
dehumanizing or criminalizing terms, it creates fear, encourages hostility, and divides neighbors
who should be working together. The United States is strongest when every community feels
valued and safe. Responsible leadership requires more than political rhetoric; it requires
empathy, truthfulness, and a commitment to fairness.
Our commitment
CSPD will continue working with policymakers, civic institutions, and community organizations
to protect the dignity and safety of all Somali Americans. We encourage all residents: Somali
and non-Somali alike, to reject harmful stereotypes and stand together for mutual respect.
The Somali community has always honored peaceful engagement, cooperation with authorities,
and civic participation. Their moral values emphasize patience, gratitude, family, and service.
These values strengthen our communities and deserve acknowledgment and respect. At a time
when harmful language can spread quickly CSPD believes that the best response is unity. A
unity grounded in truth, shared humanity, and the knowledge that every person deserves to be
treated with honor.
Contact:
Office of Communications | Executive Administration
Center for Strategic Policy and Development (CSPD)
For public statements, interviews, or community response planning, please contact CSPD.