Somali community is part of the fabric of the state of Minnesota, says Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan visited Carmel Market and local Somali-owned businesses on Wednesday, December 25, to reaffirm her administration’s commitment to the community amid rising concerns.

Wearing a hijab, Flanagan urged the public to shop at Somali-owned businesses and reassured residents that 'there are more people who are looking out for you than you know.'

Governor defines the Somali community as essential to the state's fabric

During her visit, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan emphasized that the Minnesotan Somali community is an essential part of 'the fabric of our state.' 

Her arrival at Carmel Market was met with warmth from local leaders, who expressed their gratitude for her support. 

Flanagan reflects on decades of friendship and the community’s essential role

Lt. Governor Flanagan, who is not Muslim, chose to wear a hijab while addressing the community and the media. 

She opened her remarks with a traditional greeting before reflecting on her long-standing personal ties to the community. 

Speaking to those gathered, she said, "Assalamu alaikum. My name's Peggy Flanagan, I am the lieutenant governor of Minnesota, and I'm really honored and humbled to be here with all of you today. I am incredibly clear that the Somali community is part of the fabric of the states of Minnesota.”

She added, “I think about my friendship with Nimco, we've been friends for almost 25 years and when I think of being part of Minnesota and growing up here, the Somali community has always been a part of my Minnesota."

Flanagan urged public support for Somali-owned businesses

The Lt. Governor’s visit was also a call to action for the broader public to engage with and protect their neighbors through economic and social support. 

She encouraged Minnesotans to visit Somali businesses and extend their support to the 'immigrant neighbors'.

Reassuring the crowd, she stated, "So, I want to just encourage the community to know that, We're with you, we've got your back. I am here shopping today and just encourage other folks to show up, support our Somali businesses, support our immigrant neighbors, and I know that things are scary right now and just know that there are more people who are looking out for you there, and there are more people who are here to support you than you know.”

She reiterated her support to the community by asserting, “I will continue to stand with the Somali community to be with you and to do all I can to return the friendship and community that the Somali community has shown me, thank you so much."