III.4. Proclamation Celebrating Somali Indepdence Day; Kahiye
CITY OF HOPKINS
City Council Report 2026-065
To: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
Mike Mornson, City Manager
From: Abdullahi Kahiye, Community Connector
Date: June 16, 2026
Subject: Proclamation Celebrating Somali Independence Day
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
MOTION TO Adopt a Proclamation celebrating July 1, 2026 as Somali Independence Day
in Hopkins.
OVERVIEW
Somali Independence Day, observed annually on July 1, commemorates the historic
events of 1960 that led to Somalia's independence. The day is celebrated by Somalis
worldwide as a symbol of freedom, self-determination, and resilience.
Following independence, Somalia emerged as one of Africa's earliest democratic
republics, embracing constitutional governance, representative institutions, and
competitive elections. Somali Independence Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the
values of civic participation, democratic governance, and community engagement.
The Somali community residents including educators, healthcare professionals,
community leaders, and volunteers continue to strengthen our community through their
service, leadership, and engagement.
Recognizing Somali Independence Day aligns with the City of Hopkins' mission to Inspire,
Educate, Involve, and Communicate, while supporting the City's vision of creating a spirit
of community where all people feel safe and respected, diversity is celebrated, and
residents enjoy exceptional government services, vibrant neighborhoods, and
outstanding schools.
Tonight, the City of Hopkins joins communities across Minnesota and the nation in
recognizing Somali Independence Day and celebrating the contributions of Somali
Americans to our shared community.
SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Proclamation Celebrating Somali Independence Day
Administration
A Proclamation Celebrating Somali Independence Day
WHEREAS, July 1, 1960, marks the establishment of the Somali Republic and is
commemorated annually as Somali Independence Day; and
WHEREAS, Somali Independence Day reflects the universal aspirations of freedom, self-
determination, and civic participation; and
WHEREAS, following independence in 1960, Somalia emerged as one of Africa's earliest
democratic republics, embracing constitutional governance, representative institutions,
and competitive elections; and
WHEREAS, Somali Independence Day is celebrated by Somalis throughout the world as
a symbol of freedom, resilience, and unity; and
WHEREAS, the City of Hopkins is enriched by the diversity, traditions, languages, and
experiences of its Somali residents; and
WHEREAS, recognizing Somali Independence Day reflects the City of Hopkins'
commitment to Inspire, Educate, Involve, and Communicate while fostering a community
where all people feel safe and respected and where diversity is celebrated; and
NOW THEREFORE, I, Patrick Hanlon, Mayor of the City of Hopkins in the State of
Minnesota, along with my fellow Council Members, recognize, adopt, and proclaim July
1, 2026, as Somali Independence Day in the City of Hopkins and encourage all residents
to observe this occasion through education, reflection, celebration, and community
engagement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the Seal of the City of
Hopkins, Minnesota to be affixed this 16th day of
June, 2026.
_______________________________________
Patrick Hanlon, Mayor