Hundreds of residents from across Lewiston, ME, and surrounding communities came together on Saturday in a powerful demonstration of unity and support for the city’s Somali immigrant community, rejecting recent derogatory remarks that many leaders described as dehumanizing and harmful.
Organized in response to national rhetoric that labeled Somali immigrants with offensive language, the event drew a diverse crowd of Mainers, many of whom were not Somali themselves, underscoring a widespread belief that every member of the community deserves dignity, respect, and a sense of belonging.
The rally began in Kennedy Park, where supporters lined the square holding signs and sharing messages of solidarity. From there, participants marched to a nearby event center, where speakers, including local advocates, state elected officials, and community leaders, addressed the assembled crowd.
Speakers conveyed a clear message: immigrants are valued neighbors and friends who enrich life in Lewiston. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows and gubernatorial candidate Dr. Nirav Shah both emphasized that no group of people is “garbage” and that the state’s traditions of inclusion and mutual support must guide public life.
Former Lewiston city councilor Safiya Khalid, a Somali-American leader who helped organize the rally, told the crowd that the show of support “means a lot” and that allies standing alongside immigrant neighbors sends a powerful message of care and community. She noted that history shows communities weakened by hate but strengthened by unity, and that Lewiston’s residents were choosing the latter path.
State Senator Rick Bennett, a former Republican who has since become an independent, echoed this sentiment.
“In Maine, we look after each other,” he said. “When one of us is attacked, that’s an attack on all of us.”
The event also featured cultural elements, including Somali Dhanto performances and food, further celebrating the Somali community’s contributions to Lewiston’s cultural fabric. While some Somali residents attended the rally, others expressed caution due to online threats and fear of backlash, highlighting the courage many feel in staying engaged despite current tensions.
“What this rally shows is that neighbors will stand for neighbors,” said one attendee. “We reject hate and speak for unity, belonging, and respect for every member of our community.
This gathering in Lewiston reflects a broader commitment among many communities across the country to support immigrant populations when they are unfairly targeted and to reinforce the fundamental principle that inclusion strengthens the social and economic fabric of American towns and cities.
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.
