Three Somali-American state representatives in Maine, Mana Abdi, Deqa Dhalac, and Yusuf Yusuf, have issued a strong joint statement condemning recent derogatory remarks made by President Donald Trump, who referred to Somali-Americans as “garbage.” The lawmakers say such language is dangerous, dehumanizing, and contributes to a broader climate of fear facing immigrant communities across New England.
Trump’s comment, delivered during a Cabinet meeting last week, sparked widespread outrage nationwide. For Somali-American families in New England, where community leaders and organizations have worked for years to build stability and belonging, the remarks reopened deep concerns about escalating anti-immigrant sentiment.
Officials Say the Moment Is “Bigger Than One Politician”
In their statement, the three legislators—all Somali-American and representing diverse districts in Maine—said the past few days have been “painful,” especially as Somali-American residents were singled out and attacked rhetorically.
They emphasized that Trump’s remarks are not isolated but part of a broader national trend targeting immigrants and communities of color:
“What we are witnessing is part of a coordinated effort to destabilize immigrant, Indigenous, and other communities of color, undermine democratic norms, and reshape the fabric of America through exclusion and extrajudicial force.”
The representatives noted that while the comments may appear political, their real impact is felt in neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and community spaces where immigrants already face structural barriers and discrimination.
“People Are More Than the Documents They Carry”
The lawmakers reaffirmed the longstanding contributions of immigrants—including Somali-Americans—to New England’s social, economic, and civic life. They stressed that many of the individuals affected by current federal policies are law-abiding residents working toward citizenship, raising families, and strengthening local communities.
“We believe in dignity, fairness, and the idea that people are more than the documents they carry,” they wrote.
“From Ellis Island to Maine today, America has been built by people who arrived with hope and courage, and who were given a chance to belong.”
Abdi, Dhalac, and Yusuf warned that inflammatory statements can embolden harassment and vigilantism:
“Reckless rhetoric does not stay confined to speeches or screens. It spills into real life.”
They stressed that there is no place for racial profiling, intimidation, or unauthorized individuals taking immigration enforcement into their hands.
The three representatives said elected officials have a responsibility to speak out against harmful speech and protect the rights and safety of all residents:
“Our communities deserve leaders who will call out dangerous rhetoric, defend democratic principles, and refuse to let fear or dehumanization dictate public policy.”
They reminded the public that due process applies to everyone, regardless of immigration status—a core American value they say must be defended.
“An Attack on One Community Is an Attack on All Americans”
The statement concludes with a message of unity and collective responsibility:
“An attack on Somali-Americans, on TPS holders, or on any immigrant community is an attack on all Americans. Maine is stronger when we stand together, reject dehumanization, and insist on a future rooted in safety, fairness, and shared belonging.”
Abdullahi Hussein is a community journalist focused on uplifting immigrant voices and local stories in Boston. He is also our director of editorial and development.
