Sunday October 20, 2024
Members of Somali Youth Link attend a training session on mental health crisis intervention in Minneapolis, working together to better support Somali-American youth in need. Credit: Somali Youth Link (Facebook)
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn (HOL) — In response to rising youth violence and drug-related crime in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, the U.S. government has partnered with Somali elders to bring traditional conflict resolution methods to American neighborhoods. Drawing on the Somali practice of nabadoonimo, a form of peacemaking that emphasizes community dialogue and respect, the initiative aims to steer Somali youth away from gangs and drug use.
The partnership centers around Somali Youth Link, a grassroots organization that unites Somali elders, mothers, and youth in addressing these issues. With backing from the U.S. government, local authorities, and institutions like the University of Minnesota, Somali Youth Link has taken a culturally rooted approach to tackling the challenges facing Somali-American youth.
"We were seeing more conflicts between young people and the police, and families were breaking down," said Bashir Warsame Elmi, director of Somali Youth Link. "We knew we couldn't wait any longer to act."
The group's approach blends Somali cultural values with modern outreach techniques. Elders and community leaders walk through Minneapolis neighborhoods, greeting young people respectfully with terms like "grandfather" and "aunt." This use of traditional Somali greetings builds trust, opening the door to conversations about Somali values—resilience, hard work, and community responsibility.
"We remind them of their heritage, their strength, and the importance of staying connected to their community," Bashir explained. "It's about more than just telling them to avoid drugs—it's about helping them reconnect with their identity."
The group operates both from a community office and directly on the streets, engaging with youth in the spaces where they feel most comfortable. By offering mentorship instead of discipline, Somali Youth Link has begun to change the narrative for many young people.
The U.S. government has provided financial backing for Somali Youth Link, enabling the group to expand its efforts and hold regular community meetings. Local law enforcement has also played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of group members during their outreach, particularly in high-risk neighborhoods.
"We've had situations where tensions have flared, and the police presence has been necessary to keep things calm," Bashir noted.
Beyond financial aid and security support, Somali Youth Link has also received critical training from the University of Minnesota and local law enforcement. Members have been trained in de-escalation techniques and administering life-saving medication in cases of overdose, a crucial skill in combating the rising drug problem in the community.
The impact of Somali Youth Link's efforts is already being felt. Violence in some neighborhoods has decreased, and fewer young people are gathering in areas known for criminal activity. Some youth have even sought help for drug addiction and entered rehabilitation programs after engaging with the group.
"We've had young people come up to us after just one conversation and ask for help," Bashir said. "We guide them to the services they need, and slowly they begin to change their lives."
Looking ahead, Somali Youth Link hopes to expand its work to other U.S. cities with significant Somali populations. However, the immediate focus remains on Minneapolis and Saint Paul, where the need is most urgent.
"We know the problems Somali youth face in Minneapolis aren't isolated," Bashir said. "There are Somali communities across the country facing similar challenges, and we want to reach them too."
Somali Youth Link team members and Minneapolis police officers join forces during a community outreach event aimed at reducing youth violence in the Twin Cities. Credit: Somali Youth Link (Facebook)