Trump Terminates Legal Protections for Somali Migrants in Minnesota

UPDATE: President Donald Trump has just announced the immediate termination of temporary legal protections for Somali migrants residing in Minnesota, a significant move that intensifies his administration’s ongoing efforts to limit deportations. This decision impacts the state, home to the largest Somali community in the United States, many of whom fled their war-torn homeland seeking safety and stability.

The announcement, made on Trump’s social media platform late Friday, claims Minnesota has become a “hub of fraudulent money laundering activity,” with Trump alleging that “Somali gangs are terrorizing the people of that great State.” He further criticized the situation, stating, “BILLIONS of Dollars are missing. Send them back to where they came from. It’s OVER!”

This termination affects a relatively small number of individuals; a report for Congress published in August 2023 indicated that only 705 Somali migrants are currently covered by the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program. Established in 1990, TPS was designed to prevent deportations for individuals from countries experiencing natural disasters, civil unrest, or other hazardous conditions. The program is administered by the Homeland Security Secretary, allowing for renewals in 18-month increments.

This action follows a broader pattern of the Trump administration’s hardline immigration policies, which have included attempts to revoke protections for various immigrant groups. Recently, the administration ended TPS for over 600,000 Venezuelans and 500,000 Haitians, who were granted protection under President Joe Biden.

As the situation develops, community leaders in Minnesota are expressing deep concern over the potential repercussions for families and individuals who may now face deportation. The Somali community has been a vital part of Minnesota’s fabric, contributing to the state’s economy and cultural diversity.

The next steps remain uncertain as legal challenges to this termination are anticipated. Advocates for the Somali community are mobilizing to raise awareness and seek justice for those affected.

Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this urgent situation and its implications for hundreds of Somali migrants in Minnesota and beyond.