Title
To Recognize and Celebrate July 1st as Somali Independence Day in the City of Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, on July 1st, 1960, British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland united to form the independent Republic of Somalia, marking a historic day of sovereignty, unity, and self-determination for the Somali people; and
WHEREAS, July 1st marks the national Independence Day of Somalia, observed annually in Somalia and the Somali Diaspora around the world; and
WHEREAS, Somali Independence Day is celebrated annually by Somalis around the world as a moment of pride, reflection, and hope for continued peace, progress, and unity; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus is home to the second largest and fastest growing Somali communities in the United Sates Of America; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated at least 60,000 Somali immigrants and refugees live in Central Ohio and the City of Columbus, with an estimated 200 Somali immigrants per month arriving in the region; and
WHEREAS, like many immigrant communities before them, Somali Americans have made their journey to the United States to work for the opportunity to create a better life for themselves and their families; and
WHREAS, Somali Americans in Columbus have built thriving communities, established businesses, founded nonprofit organizations, and taken on leadership roles in education, health care, advocacy, and public service; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus recognizes the resilience, strength, and ongoing contributions of Somali families and individuals who continue to shape and strengthen our community;
BE IT RESOLVED BY THIS COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does recognize and celebrate July 1st, 2025 , Somali Independence Day, with the people of Somalia and Somali Americans here in the City of Columbus