OLBC Stands with Ohio's Somali Community Following Remarks by President Trump

COLUMBUS– Ohio Legislative Black Caucus’ (OLBC) President Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) today stands in support of Ohio’s Somali community following recent remarks made by President Donald Trump regarding Somali immigrants. Ohio is home to the second largest Somali population in the United States, and these families are a vital part of the state’s cultural and economic landscape.

“Our Somali neighbors deserve to live in a state where they are respected for their contributions and not singled out by divisive commentary. The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus stands firmly with them and rejects any language that promotes hate or fear,” said President Upchurch.

OLBC is proud to have State Reps. Ismail Mohamed (D-Columbus) and Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus) as members whose leadership, advocacy, and lived experience strengthen the Caucus’s commitment to uplifting all immigrant and refugee communities in Ohio.

President Upchurch emphasizes that targeting Somali residents with harmful rhetoric is unacceptable and undermines the progress Ohio communities have worked hard to build. He reaffirmed the Caucus’s commitment to ensuring that all Ohioans feel safe, valued, and protected.