Saint Cloud, Minnesota has been in the news lately because of the daily hostility Somali students faced at school. Among the complaints: an “I hate the Somalians at Tech High” Facebook page, bacon shoved in the faces of Muslims as … Continued
Politics
The Politics of Immigration Reform After SB1070
In the last couple weeks the issue of immigration reform has come to the front burner due to draconian laws created by the anti-immigrant movement. One such law has been passed by Arizona state legislature and almost ten more state … Continued
Politics
A Wake Up Call for Saint Cloud School Leaders
The questions many Somalis ask themselves is, ‘what is wrong with Saint Cloud, Minnesota?’ Why is there an environment of hate towards people of color and minorities? Why are our children faced with daily hostility at school? Among the complaints: … Continued
Politics
It is Time for Humane Immigration Reform
It is time to address the United States’ broken immigration system. Through comprehensive immigration reform many in the United States could benefit. The current immigration system weakens our economy and betrays human values. For many, the American dream remains elusive … Continued
Politics
Racism Exists in Saint Cloud
An act of hate was recently perpetrated by a resident in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. A packet of hateful, deragogatory depictions of Prophet Mohamed engaged in bestiality was posted to a telephone pole in front of a Somali store. This was … Continued
Health
Leaders Work to Counter Harsh Realities of Meat Packing
It is very difficult to have a good understanding of the hands that feed us every day and the harsh reality that workers undergo daily in the meat packing industry. These are some of the hardest jobs in the food … Continued
Progress on Plant Safety Benefits Entire Community
The faces of central and west central Minnesota have changed over the last decade as refugee and immigrants caused the populations of Willmar and Saint Cloud to swell. Most of these individuals work in meatpacking plants. In addition to the … Continued
Food Justice
Somali Refugee Struggles and Triumphs
Most of the Somali refugees in central Minnesota were resettled in early 2001, and they have being living and working in communities there for the last decade. Generally, the refugees have had tumultuous experiences while transitioning, although each community dealt … Continued