Revitalizing Lake Street: The Impact of Somali Refugees in Minneapolis

Sat Nov 01 2025 08:42:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Over two decades, Minneapolis' Lake Street corridor has transformed, with Somali refugees at the forefront of revitalization and community building. Their contributions highlight the resilience and importance of immigrant communities in the U.S.

The Lake Street corridor in Minneapolis, once plagued by poverty and empty storefronts, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to its flourishing Somali community. Refugees, arriving from Somalia and other nations, have revitalized the area by opening diverse businesses and enriching the local culture. Despite recent restrictive immigration policies, community leaders emphasize the essential role refugees play in the American socio-economic landscape.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The woman remembers when she first moved to the neighborhood more than 20 years ago, and the streets were full of empty storefronts and seemingly relentless poverty.

Today, Minneapolis’ Lake Street corridor is jammed with businesses, many owned by Somali refugees.

“Look at what we did around here,” said Nasra Hassan, a community health worker whose family came to Minneapolis fleeing Somalia’s civil war. “Because of us this place is thriving.”

Minnesota’s large Somali community was among various immigrant groups that helped revitalize this corridor and has continuously welcomed newcomers to America. The neighborhood now showcases businesses run by immigrants escaping violence from regions like Mexico, Myanmar, as well as recent arrivals from the Congo and Ukraine.

“Where would America be without us?” Hassan questioned.

A presidential order has cut annual refugee admissions to 7,500, a staggering 90% reduction from last year’s limit of 125,000, marking the lowest number since the program began in 1980.

The refugee resettlement program has historically enjoyed bipartisan support, yet recent policies cast doubt on this commitment.

Trump's administration first suspended the program on his first day in office in 2025, part of a broader immigration crackdown.

Community advocacy groups argue that these changes fundamentally challenge a longstanding American tradition of welcoming those seeking refuge. Their pleas for attention highlight the vulnerabilities of many, including Afghans, Sudanese, and other high-risk populations.

Minnesota holds the largest Somali population in the U.S. at around 87,000. These Somali-Americans have now taken leadership roles, with representatives serving on local councils and in Congress.

Despite their significant contributions to the community, activists like Fartun Weli express concern about the future of refugees in America. “Who will care for our elders or work in our factories?” she asks, reflecting on the pivotal role that immigrants play in the socio-economic fabric of Minnesota.