Minnesota is home to well over 70,000 Somalis. Due to the trials and tribulations of war, we have fled our beloved home, Somalia (the horn of Africa) in what is called the Somali Diaspora. We have since organized a vibrant community here in MN. Thus, Minnesota is the center—the heart—of the horn of Africa. Our culture, values and morals are still maintained, but they are not static. The new generation has redefined a culture of their own. This event celebrated both the past and the present, the tradition and the modern, and Somalia and Minnesota. Along the way, we shed light on individual voices: from the single mother to the Starbucks father to the runaway forgotten youth. We will try to illuminate on what it means to be Somali in this day and age. March 19th 2011 was a night of celebration and a night where “the heart” and “the horn of Africa” merged into one.
The event on March 19 included:
- Distinguished speakers and invited guests
- Drama: Ka Joog Players presented a marvelous play called “Dangerous but Disarmed” which tributes our theme of the night and the social issues that are affecting our community.
- Culture Dances: A showcase of Somali traditional dances that exemplify our rich culture
- “Fadhi kudir” is an organized debate: Well-educated college students debate about various topics which complements our theme of the night, written and prepared by Ka Joog Board Members. Tonight’s topic was Somalia and Somalis: The History of Somalia and Somalis and what we can improve on. How have Somalis contributed to MN? How can we make an impact and provide more great opportunities for the next generation?
- Poetry: To platform and celebrate our rich oral tradition, after all, we are known as the nation of poets. Therefore, it is our responsibility and our duty to continue this extraordinary tradition through literature.
- Music: The event introduced emerging artists and highlighted local favorites.
