The Winooski School District in Vermont raised the Somali flag outside its school building on December 5, 2025, in a gesture meant to support Somali students and families in the community. The district, where approximately 9 percent of students are of Somali descent, flew the Somali flag alongside the United States and Vermont flags to show solidarity and affirmation of its diverse student body.
School leaders stressed that the flag was displayed to promote inclusivity and belonging for Somali students, many of whom cheered and expressed pride in seeing their national symbol honored. Superintendent Wilmer Chavarria said the gesture was intended to create a “moment of normalcy in a sea of racist rhetoric nationally.”
Backlash and Response
After the image and video of the flag-raising circulated on social media, the district received a wave of racist and threatening calls and messages, prompting officials to temporarily take down the school website and phone lines to protect staff and students. Law enforcement, including the Vermont Intelligence Center, reviewed hundreds of messages, but so far, no credible threat of violence has been identified.
Despite the backlash, state officials and community leaders defended the district’s decision. Democratic State Senator Martine Gulick said the flag should not be seen as problematic and emphasized that “supporting its community members” reflects American values.
What It Means for Students
Mukhtar Abdullahi, a multilingual liaison in the district who works closely with Somali families, said the flag raised an important message: “No one, no human being, regardless of where they come from, is garbage.” Students told administrators they felt seen and respected by the display.
School officials also clarified that the United States flag remained in its prominent position on the highest mast, with the Vermont and Somali flags displayed respectfully below it.
A Broader Message of Inclusion
The Vermont school’s actions reflect a broader truth about Somali Americans and immigrant communities nationwide: they are not defined by rhetoric or hostility but by their contributions to American life. Somali Americans work as educators, healthcare providers, entrepreneurs, parents, and neighbors who help strengthen communities and embody the promise of opportunity and inclusion.
Ultimately, the flag display sent a clear signal that public schools can be places where every student is recognized, respected, and encouraged to pursue the American dream. This message resonates far beyond Vermont’s borders.
NEAT Media (New England Ascent Tribune) is a nonprofit News Network dedicated to elevating the stories, perspectives, and experiences of immigrants and people of color across New England.
