Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey addressed members of the city’s Somali community during Somali Independence Day celebrations. He emphasized the bond between the community and the city, referring to them as “our family.” He praised their contributions and expressed solidarity with them.

Frey’s statements come amid scrutiny over fraud investigations in Minnesota. Recently, a Republican-led House Oversight Committee alleged that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s administration did not respond adequately to warnings about extensive fraud in state social services. Frey mentioned Operation Metro Surge, an initiative under the Trump administration that concluded with over 4,000 arrests in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, aiming to reduce public safety threats.

When some are targeted, it’s like targeting all of us. Here, in Minneapolis, we see you as family, not immigrants. You’ve greatly contributed to this city, and we support you.

Frey’s remarks were part of a video post celebrating the Somali community’s resilience and cultural richness, shared on social media for Somali Independence Day. Despite allegations against the Walz administration about ignoring fraud warnings, which potentially resulted in a loss of $300 million during the pandemic, Walz officials have contested these findings.

Fraud investigations involve over 110 individuals, many identified as part of Minnesota’s Somali immigrant community. The report suggested possible racial discrimination concerns delayed fraud action.