We are here to stay: Ilhan Omar hits back after Trump calls Somalis garbage - India Today
After Donald Trump branded Somali immigrants — including Ilhan Omar — as “garbage” during a recent Cabinet meeting, Omar responded forcefully, refusing to be silenced or scapegoated. Calling the president’s fixation on her “creepy and unhealthy,” she declared that she and her community will not be driven out or diminished. Omar emphasized that Somali-American families have long been part of the fabric of Minnesota — contributing to society and raising their voices against prejudice. Her statement underscores her determination to stand firm in the face of inflammatory rhetoric and mounting criticism. Local leaders in Minnesota have also condemned Trump’s remarks, stressing that the Somali community has played a positive role across social, economic, and cultural spheres.
The Key points
- Trump described Somali immigrants as “garbage,” saying they “contribute nothing” and don’t belong in the United States.
- He personally insulted Omar, calling her and her friends “garbage.”
- The remarks came amid plans for increased immigration enforcement targeting Somali communities in Minnesota.
- In response, Omar said she and her community will not be intimidated or used as scapegoats — “we are here to stay.”
- India Today
- She described Trump’s focus on her as “creepy and unhealthy.”
- Omar highlighted the long-standing presence of Somali families in Minnesota, challenging the notion they are new or unwanted arrivals.
- Local Minnesota leaders condemned Trump’s rhetoric, defending the Somali community’s positive contributions to the state.
- The Somali-American community is largely naturalized citizens with many families settled for decades, contradicting claims of illegitimacy or burden.
- Omar’s rebuttal came shortly after federal authorities reportedly prepared “strike teams” of immigration agents for the Minneapolis–St. Paul region.
- The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns over xenophobic rhetoric and its consequences for immigrant communities in the US.
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