County board issues statement of support for Somali and immigrant communities

The following statement by the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners was read at the December 16, 2025 county board meeting. 

Olmsted County is home to diverse communities who contribute to the strength, well-being, and future of our region. Among those communities is a vibrant Somali population, whose presence, culture, and commitment to family, work, and service enrich our community in countless ways.

We have witnessed broad characterizations and disparaging rhetoric directed at Somali people, both nationally and locally. Words that demean, dehumanize, and target any group of people do real harm. Harmful words create fear, isolation, and sow division. History has
shown us that violence against people, groups, and entire populations often begins with divisive rhetoric.

We recognize that many members of our Somali and broader immigrant communities may be feeling scared, confused, or angry. We want you to know: you are safe here, you are welcome here, and you belong here.

Immigrants of many backgrounds, past and present, have shaped Olmsted County into a place world-renowned for innovation, compassion, and commitment to community. That story continues today, as residents from all parts of the world start businesses, raise families, work in essential jobs, contribute to schools and neighborhoods, and help build a future we can all be proud of.

As a county, our mission and values call on us to serve residents with dignity, respect, and fairness, and to uphold the well-being and safety of all who live here. Those commitments do not shift based on politics or public rhetoric. Our mission and values reflect who we are and what we stand for.

We reject language that degrades and threatens our neighbors, and we stand firmly against efforts to turn members of our community into targets of hate, suspicion, or exclusion. We encourage residents to extend care, allyship, and support to their Somali neighbors and to
all immigrant communities who may be feeling the impacts of this moment.

Olmsted County is stronger because of the people who call it home. We are committed to ensuring this remains a community where everyone is valued, where differences are respected, and where families can build safe and fulfilling lives.