Title
To Recognize and Celebrate July 1 as Somali Independence Day in the City of Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, July 1st marks the national Independence Day of Somalia, observed annually in Somalia and the Somali Diaspora around the world; and
WHEREAS, it is a day that celebrates the Somali Republic dating back to July 1st, 1960 when the Trust Territory of Somaliland and the State of Somaliland united to form one country; and
WHEREAS, the City of Columbus is home to one of the largest and fastest growing Somali communities in the world; 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
WHEREAS, the Somali American community is vital to building the strength and diversity of Columbus, a truly All American City; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THIS COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does recognize and celebrate July 1, 2022, Somali Independence Day, with the people of Somalia and Somali Americans here in the City of Columbus.