MINNEAPOLIS – On Saturday, September 28, 2024, the Southeast Como Improvement Association hosted its annual Como Cook Out at Van Clive Park in Minneapolis, bringing together neighbors for a day of celebration and community spirit. The event was a vibrant showcase of community connections, with an array of activities designed to engage residents of all ages.

Attendees enjoyed live music that filled the park with lively melodies, creating an inviting atmosphere for everyone. The sounds of local bands resonated through the air, encouraging people to gather, dance, and enjoy the beautiful fall day. Alongside the music, the event featured delicious ice cream and snacks, providing the perfect treats to complement the festive mood.

Local organizations tabled at the event, sharing valuable resources and information with community members. This aspect of the Como Cook Out fostered connections between residents and the various organizations dedicated to enhancing the neighborhood. From voter registration to educational programs, these tables provided a wealth of information to help residents get involved and stay informed.

One of the highlights for families was the Pop-Up Parks program from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Pop-Up Parks staff engaged kids and their parents with a variety of fun activities, from games to creative challenges, ensuring that young attendees had an unforgettable experience. Laughter and joy echoed throughout the park as families participated in the interactive offerings.

Additionally, staff from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts led art activities that encouraged children to express their creativity. This collaboration not only sparked imagination but also introduced families to the arts in an engaging and approachable way.

Overall, the Como Cook Out was a resounding success, highlighting the strength and unity of the Southeast Como community. It was a day filled with connection, and the shared joy of coming together, proving once again that events like these are vital for fostering a strong neighborhood spirit.

Photos by Abdirahman Mukhtar (Tusmo Times)

MINNEAPOLIS – Today marks a significant milestone for the Minneapolis Police Department and the Somali American community as Ikran Mohamed was sworn in as the first Somali American woman police officer to serve and join Minneapolis police force. The ceremony took place at the Minneapolis Indian American Center, where a crowd of supporters gathered to celebrate this historic moment.

Among the attendees were Minneapolis Police Chief, the mayor, city council members, family members, community leaders, and fellow law enforcement officials. The presence of such a diverse group highlighted the importance of this occasion not just for Mohamed, but for the broader community and other officers that was sworn in.

Ikran Mohamed’s joins other Somali women officers who work for Metro Transit Police Department and Saint Paul Police Department. In 2014 Khadra Mohamed became the first Somali-American woman to join the St. Paul Police Department, and the first Somali-American women to be a police officer in Minnesota, a move made possible by the department’s announcement that it has approved an option for employees to wear a police-issued hijab. These officers not only break barriers but also serve as an inspiration for young women and aspiring officers within the Somali American community and beyond. Ikran’s achievement represents progress in diversifying law enforcement and fostering stronger community relations.

During the ceremony, Chief of Police emphasized the importance of representation within the police force, noting how it strengthens trust and engagement with the community. The mayor also spoke about the significance of this milestone, highlighting the need for police departments to reflect the communities they serve.

Mohamed expressed her gratitude and determination in her new role, stating her commitment to serving and protecting all members of the Minneapolis community. Her aspirations extend beyond her duties as a police officer; she aims to build bridges between the police and the communities they serve.

As Ikran Mohamed embarks on her career, her groundbreaking achievement serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity in law enforcement. It is a hopeful step towards a future where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has a voice in shaping their community.

Today, Ikran Mohamed makes history—not only as a police officer but as a symbol of hope and change for many.

Photo credit: Zakariye Xaayow

Settlement secures roughly $100,000 in refunds for dozens of immigrants who paid for legal services not properly rendered.

(SAINT PAUL) – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, announced a settlement that includes refunds to dozens of clients, many of them Somali or Ethiopian, who had retained immigration legal services by Daniel Patrick Brown, and DPB Legal, PLLC (collectively “DPB Legal”). Between 2021 and 2023, DPB Legal accepted 100 clients who were seeking asylum in the U.S. so that they would not be deported. When representing the clients DPB Legal provided many of them an incorrect representation regarding when they would be eligible to receive a work authorization permit.

Under immigration law, an asylum applicant is generally eligible to apply for work authorization 150 days after filing their asylum petition, which allows for lawful work while the applicant waits for the long immigration process to conclude. However, DPB Legal informed its clients, after collecting their retainer payments, that their 150-day clock would actually begin ticking down upon the filing of only a partial application (the first 3 pages of the 12-page form). When clients learned that DPB Legal had misinformed them, many terminated services but were not provided a refund by DPB Legal. They then had to start their asylum process over again with a new lawyer which caused strain, lost time, missed work opportunities, and additional expense.

The order approved by a Ramsey County state court requires DPB Legal to cease and refrain from making any misstatements to asylum clients and prospective asylum clients, including, but not limited to, misstatements about when an asylum applicant is eligible to apply for or receive a work authorization permit. The order also provides for refunds for former and current clients which will amount to approximately $100,000.

“I am pleased that DPB Legal has now agreed to refund clients who were misinformed about the asylum process,” said Attorney General Ellison. “Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s what we do in those moments of recognizing our errors that matters the most. We appreciate Mr. Brown’s cooperation.”

Consumers who are considering hiring an attorney can refer to the Attorney General’s “Hiring an Attorney” publication: Hiring an Attorney. Consumers who wish to report concerns about their attorneys may contact the Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility at (651) 296-3952 or (800) 657-3601 and www.lprb.mncourts.gov.

Attorney General Ellison urges Minnesota consumers to report their consumer complaints by submitting a complaint online. Minnesotans can also contact the Attorney General’s Office by phone at (651) 296-3353 (Metro), (800) 657-3787 (Greater Minnesota), or (800) 627-3529 (Minnesota Relay).

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