In response to Operation Metro Surge, the Somali American Bar Association (SABA) has released a Know Your Rights video to help educate community members about their constitutional protections and legal rights. The video is designed to provide clear, accessible information to ensure individuals understand their rights during interactions with law enforcement.

The video was created by Nomadic Arc Consulting, commissioned by SABA, and funded and supported by The Minneapolis Foundation.

Hennepin County is inviting community organizations, service providers, and residents to partner in strengthening violence prevention efforts across the county.

To support collaboration, the county will host both in-person and virtual information sessions. These gatherings will give potential partners the opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and help shape how this important work moves forward together.

Building Safer, Stronger Communities

Over the past several years, violence prevention staff within Hennepin County’s Safe Communities area have worked closely with community-based providers in neighborhoods most impacted by violence. Their shared goal is to increase safety and ensure residents have access to:

• Basic needs and essential resources
• Meaningful employment opportunities
• Safe spaces to grow and learn
• Psychological support and a sense of being valued
• Freedom from fear
• Pride and belonging in their communities

Through collaboration, the county and its partners aim to create protective environments for young people, connect them with caring adults and positive activities, and promote healthy families.

“Violence prevention is a collective effort,” said Ifrah Jama, violence prevention coordinator for Hennepin County. “Every young person has the potential to choose peace over violence. We can support and guide them in recognizing the strength of compassion and understanding. Empowering our youth to become leaders in peacebuilding is at the heart of our violence prevention effort. They are the change-makers of tomorrow.”

Get Involved

As the county prepares to seek proposals for 2027 programming, community members are encouraged to attend upcoming virtual feedback sessions to learn more and share input.

Virtual Gathering:
Tuesday, March 10
1 p.m.

Learn more: Community violence prevention request for proposals

Organizations and residents who are committed to creating safer neighborhoods and expanding opportunity for youth are strongly encouraged to participate.

Together, we can build communities where every young person feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Minnesota — Muslims across Minnesota and around the world will begin the holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as millions prepare to observe a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The announcement follows confirmation by Saudi Arabia of the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan 1447 AH, a determination subsequently echoed by several other Muslim-majority countries, including Somalia.

For Muslims everywhere, Ramadan is a sacred period focused on spiritual renewal, heightened devotion, and acts of compassion. From early morning suhoor meals to sunset iftars, the month encourages believers to draw closer to God, support those in need, and strengthen bonds with family and community.

In Minnesota — home to one of the largest Somali-American communities in the United States — the arrival of Ramadan holds particular significance. Local Muslims say this year’s observance comes at a moment marked by heightened concerns over immigration enforcement and an increasingly charged political climate.

“Ramadan arrives today, reminding us to be grateful for what we have, mindful of those with less, and committed to serving others—values Minnesotans, especially Minneapolis residents, have lived these past months as neighbors cared for one another, protected our streets, and kept children safe.’,” said Abdul Abdi, Minneapolis School Board Director “but many families in our community are feeling anxious due to ongoing immigration enforcement actions and rhetoric that affects our schools, businesses, and places of worship.”

Despite these challenges, Minnesota Muslims are approaching the month with resolve and optimism. Religious leaders emphasize that Ramadan’s message of peace, forgiveness, charity, and community service offers comfort and strength during times of uncertainty. Mosques and community centers across the state are preparing nightly prayers (taraweeh), food drives, and interfaith events to support neighbors of all backgrounds.

“This Ramadan in Minnesota arrives after a season of fear, loss and the shattering of any illusion that safety is guaranteed. The recent surge targeted our communities disrupting our lives, separating families and devastating many of our small businesses. We come to Ramadan carrying grief, exhaustion and unanswered questions.

Even in the middle of all this uncertainty, we will break fast together. We will come together in prayer, and we will give what we can. We will hold tightly to our dignity and refuse to let humanity be taken. This Ramadan, our worship will be our resistance, and community will remain our greatest strength.,” explained Malika Dahir, Executive Director of Reviving Sisterhood.

Community organizers are also reminding residents that charitable efforts are at the heart of the month — from providing meals for the hungry to supporting families facing hardship. Many local mosques are coordinating iftar dinners and volunteer opportunities, inviting people of all faiths to share in the spirit of Ramadan.