As Minneapolis prepares for its upcoming mayoral election, Somali community members are rallying behind state Sen. Omar Fateh, who announced his campaign earlier this year.

Abdirizak Diis, founder and CEO of Somali Media of Minnesota, said recent online attacks targeting Fateh’s background have frustrated many in the Somali community. He added that the community is disappointed with the local DFL leadership’s silence in addressing these criticisms.

“I feel like the Somali community is under constant attack from right-wing media and some social media influencers, all because Omar Fateh, who is born in Virginia, is running for mayor,” Diis said. 

Diis said that despite these attacks, support for Fateh remains strong. 

“He has passed bills that support the less fortunate people in Minnesota,” Diis said. “He has strong support within the community, not because he is Somali but because of the issues he stands for.”

Residents of Cedar-Riverside, which is home to one of the largest Somali populations in the United States, share some of Diis’ sentiments. 

Growing up in Cedar-Riverside, Sakariya Ali said he has observed changes in the area over the years, but still appreciates its diversity. 

“It’s a neighborhood with different ethnicity groups,” Ali said. “People support each other and look after each other.”

Ali added that the strong community helps newcomers adjust, even those still learning English. 

“They have ESL classes for adults,” Ali said. “Immigrants are hardworking people, and coming from war-torn countries, this is a nice place to work and help family.”

ICE agents raided two Twin Cities restaurants in June, drawing a large crowd of protesters, according to Bring Me the News. To Ali, this is concerning for all immigrant communities.

“In this country, we shouldn’t hate immigrants because they’re the ones that flourish the economy,” Ali said regarding ICE raids.

Diis added that the Somali community’s main concerns extend beyond politics. 

“The biggest things we care about as a Somali community are substance use disorder within the youth, homelessness, and quality education,” Diis said.

Diis said he believes Fateh’s grassroots support gives him an edge compared to other candidates, such as Mayor Jacob Frey, who is running for a third term. 

“I know Mayor Frey is investing a lot to garner support from the community,” Diis said. “He may have some people supporting him, but I believe the vast majority support Omar Fateh.”

Samira Iman, Cedar-riverside resident, said she primarily learned about Fateh from YouTube videos and word-of-mouth.

“Some people support him, and some support others,” Iman said. “He helps a lot, and I think people like that he’s Somali and represents us.”