Title
To recognize the Somali Cultural Festival and its founding members.
Body
WHEREAS, the Somali Cultural Festival was created to celebrate and promote Somali culture, heritage, and traditions within the Columbus Community; and,
WHEREAS, the Somali Cultural Festival aims to foster understanding and appreciation of Somali culture; and,
WHEREAS, this event not only showcases the rich cultural diversity of the Somali people but also plays a crucial role in fostering understanding and appreciation of Somali culture within both the Somali community and the greater Columbus community; and,
WHEREAS, the festival has significantly expanded in size and importance, transforming the Cultural Festival into an annual event that highlights the rich cultural diversity of the Somali people; and,
WHEREAS, last year, the Somali Cultural Festival had over 4,000 attendees and saw a diversity of community members, including families, students, local leaders, and visitors from neighboring cities and states. The increase in attendance each year highlights the growing interest and support for Somali cultural heritage; and,
WHEREAS, the Somali Cultural Festival offers attendees a variety of activities and programs designed to celebrate Somali culture, traditional music and dance performances, cultural exhibits, children’s activities, community resources tables, marketplaces, workshops and lectures; and,
WHEREAS, several local and regional groups participate in the festival, including community organizations, cultural groups, artists, and businesses. The festival serves as a platform for Somalian groups to connect with the wider community and share their cultural heritage; and,
WHEREAS, the founding members, President Mohamed Ali and Vice President Leebaan Osman, have created an annual event that Columbus residents look forward to and that also brings a piece of home and culture to Somali people; therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council celebrates and congratulates the Somali Cultural Festival and its organizers on bringing the community together to celebrate Somali culture.