Somalians turned out to have higher IQ than we thought: Trump on $19-bn daycare fraud
In a shocking statement, US President Donald Trump claimed that Somalian-Americans committed a staggering $19-billion daycare fraud in the state of Minnesota. Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Trump made a series of controversial comments about the Somali community, sparking widespread outrage and criticism.
“Can you believe that? Somalians turned out to have a higher IQ than we thought…They are pirates,” Trump said, leaving many in attendance stunned and bewildered. The comment was not only factually incorrect but also perpetuated harmful stereotypes about the Somali community.
Trump’s remarks were likely referring to a recent investigation into daycare fraud in Minnesota, which found that some Somali-American owned daycare centers had allegedly defrauded the state of millions of dollars. However, the investigation did not conclude that the entire Somali-American community was involved in the fraud, nor did it suggest that they had a higher IQ than other communities.
Moreover, Trump’s comment about Somalians being “pirates” is a gross exaggeration and a racist trope that has been used to dehumanize and marginalize the Somali community for centuries. Somalia has a rich and complex history, with a thriving culture and a strong tradition of trade and commerce. The country has faced numerous challenges, including civil war, poverty, and terrorism, but it is not a nation of pirates.
Trump also took aim at Ilhan Omar, a Somali-American congresswoman from Minnesota, calling her a “fake congressperson” who “comes from a country that’s not a country.” Omar, who was born in Somalia but immigrated to the United States as a refugee, has been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies and has spoken out against racism and xenophobia.
Trump’s comments about Omar are not only personal but also reflect a deeper ignorance about the Somali community and their experiences. Somalia is a sovereign nation with a rich history and culture, and its people have made significant contributions to the United States and other countries around the world.
Omar, who represents Minnesota’s 5th congressional district, has been a trailblazer for Somali-Americans and Muslim women in politics. She has spoken out against Trump’s divisive rhetoric and has advocated for policies that promote equality, justice, and human rights.
Trump’s comments have sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from politicians, activists, and community leaders. Many have criticized Trump’s remarks as racist, xenophobic, and Islamophobic, and have called on him to apologize for his comments.
The Somali-American community has also responded to Trump’s comments, expressing outrage and disappointment at the president’s words. Many have pointed out that the community has made significant contributions to the United States, including in the fields of medicine, education, and business.
In conclusion, Trump’s comments about Somalian-Americans and Ilhan Omar are a stark reminder of the deep-seated racism and xenophobia that exists in our society. His remarks are not only factually incorrect but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and tropes that have been used to marginalize and dehumanize the Somali community.
As we move forward, it is essential that we recognize the contributions and dignity of all communities, regardless of their background or ethnicity. We must also hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions, and demand that they promote policies that promote equality, justice, and human rights.