By A. Irshat

Beaming wit joy and beauty made in the seamless blue skies, Somali graduates from State Colleges and Universities stepped forth to the podium to receive appreciation awards from University of Minnesota, U of M officials and Somali community leaders.

The event brought together graduates from across the State to receive a thank you toast from the Somali community leaders. The annual event which is the brain child and was organized by Mohamed Wardere, a Somali leader and Community Liaison at the Office of Senator Norman Coleman was held at Coffman Union Theater.
 
Mr. Wardere said, "many times, we hear of gang destruction and other negative about our community but hardly any positive one like this one gets publicized and/or other positive events. Mr. Wardere who is an avid advocate for youth advancement and education in the Somali community said “It is time for us to increase publicizing our achievements and rewarding those who did well in our midst that spending valuable time on unimportant issues in the community in order for the youth to tape these kind of success story.

Speaking as the guest of honor, the Vice president of the University of Minnesota and Vice Provost for Equity and Diversity, Dr. Nancy Rusty Barcelo, told the graduates to stand-up for their rights assuring them that, U of M, will continue to supporting their leadership to the next level of Somali generations.

Barcelo also reminded the new graduates that, they should always seek to succeed and never give-up in education in order to claim their rightful places other institution of learning.
 
The U of M official told the graduates, "many of you are still in that "in-between"...borderlands, a place neither here nor there.... still negotiating every day the border crossing between cultures whether you are the first or second generation in your family.

In an emotional speech peppered with scenes drawn from the struggles and coming of her parents in the early 1920's from Mexico as a Mexican Americas; she cautioned, she boldly advised "let your voice be heard and stand-up for your rights and culture".

Saddling in two worlds, she said, "you are carrying Somali heritage and identity with you wherever you go but you will be pressured to do things in the American way.... but always your roots will pull you back"

Cautioning them never to loose their cultures and identity, she said, "never apologize for who you are whether you are a hybrid or hyphenated Somali America".

Others in attendance and who spoke included Sheikh Abdirahman Omar, Sheikh Hassan Jamie of the Daawa Islamic Institute, Saeed Fahie of the Confederation of the Somali Community and Hoda Abdi Ali a mother of six and community college among others.

Hoda abdi ali, a mother of six in-charge of Teach or Learn meaning “bar ama baro”, a non profit organization focused on encouraging the young to pursue education through learning and teaching philosophy reminded the audience that many Somali youth are in prison or jails instead of reading and teaching, she said

Somali children Saeed Fahie of the Confederation of the Somali Community said,
 "going to school in the fifties in Somalia and the present generation plenty of means in America schools contrast defies imagination.

Sheikh Abdirahman Omar, on his part said "they use to cross two rivers, overcame scarcity; sometimes barefoot, with no breakfast or transport in Somali to complete education. “Never did we enjoy like you with this easy and plenty, he added.

Sheikh Hassan Jamici a renowned Islamic scholar cum William Mitchell lecturer said, "Faith compliment education and not impediment as others have wrongfully embraced.

Sheikh Jamici on his part said faith complements education and advised the graduates to keep their faith watertight. "As you zealously pursue to succeed in higher education, seek faith in your capacities reminded them that the Holy Quran first revelation as read! Iqra,
 
Yusuf Omar, a visiting researcher from Australia, also advised on the Twin strength of education and faith and hard work as the basis of success.

Summing up the event Mr. Wardere, the organizer said; the purpose of the event is to guide thee unto future leadership roles and at the same time counter negatives about our community by promoting greater goods.

As the event winded-up, one thing was evident, boys and girls power in universities and appreciating their zealous strength of going to school and graduating need to be embraced.

But for the Somali girls drive, adding pretty brains with their already pretties priestly beauty and as once described is permanent mark and asset to be applauded by all. And thanks to America.

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Photo: Said Fahie of Somali Confederation awarding Certificate to one of the graduating students while Wardhere and Dr. Nancy Rusty Barcelo, looks on.