Letter to the Editor: Somali people in St. Cloud deserve transparency

Special to the St. Cloud Times

Since my previous letter responding to the article, "St. Cloud's Somali population looks to diversify city council," I have received significant feedback from both the Somali and broader communities. John Smith from Promise Neighborhood commented, "Thanks for saying publicly what others only whisper. These bully tactics do a huge disservice to the community."

Many others echoed these sentiments, sharing personal experiences with the Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization (CAIRO). (I believe) CAIRO has been a divisive force, intruding into private lives and splitting families. Nonprofits should aim to unify and support communities, but CAIRO's grant dollars have caused significant discord within the Somali community. Their interference has disrupted the respected St. Cloud committee of Somali Elders, reducing them to mere pawns in grant-seeking schemes. Additionally, CAIRO has further divided local Islamic centers, causing rifts in leadership and creating lasting harm.

Community feedback highlights a troubling pattern: pressuring the city into contracts. These coerced agreements have done more harm than good, undermining the very community they claim to support. The involvement of well-meaning leaders from outside the Somali community has been used to suppress dissent and maintain CAIRO's influence, creating an illusion of untouchable power.

The (alleged) misuse of funds and external displays of power must end. The Somali community deserves organizations that uplift, not exploit, them. Local leaders and institutions must reassess their partnerships and seek transparent, community-focused alternatives that genuinely support the needs and aspirations of our community.

The upcoming city council election is a chance for positive change. The candidacies of Hudda Ibrahim and Omar Podi should be supported based on their merits and dedication to public service, not manipulated for organizational gain. St. Cloud has made significant strides in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, and it is vital that we continue to build on this progress. By standing together and demanding accountability, we can create a better future for all residents of St. Cloud. The overwhelming response to my previous letter shows that the community is ready for change. We must say enough to divisive tactics and support genuine efforts to improve our community. Let us work together to ensure that all voices are heard and that our community's true needs are met.

Sincerely,

Farhan Abdi St. Cloud Somali Youth Organization

This is the opinion of the writer and not the St. Cloud Times.