National and Minnesota Report
Just as we did in 1990, 2000, and 2020, if Minnesota receives an infusion of new Afghan refugees and over the next decade, they solidify their connection to our state by raising families we will see a similar effect as we did when the Hmong and Somali communities arrived, which we argue helped us retain all 8 Congressional Districts in the 2020 Census.
In his letter to President Joe Biden (D), along with Lt Governor Peggy Flanagan (DFL-MN) Governor Tim Walz (DFL-MN) wrote the following:
Dear President Biden:
Like people across the globe, Minnesotans have watched the events unfolding in Afghanistan with grief and sadness. Minnesotans believe in treating all people with respect and dignity, and we have a strong tradition of welcoming those who seek refuge and supporting them to rebuild their lives and become part of our communities. Minnesota is eager to uphold that tradition by welcoming families and children and providing the stable foundation they need to rebuild their lives, achieve their highest potential, and contribute to our state.
You may already be aware that in the past Minnesota has stepped forward to help those who are fleeing desperate situations and need a safe place to call home. New Minnesotans strengthen our communities and contribute to the social fabric of our state. They are our neighbors.
We stand ready to work with you and your administration to welcome families as this effort to provide safety and refuge continues.
Sincerely,
Tim Walz
Governor
Peggy Flanagan
Lt. Governor
cc: Anthony Blinken, Secretary, U.S. Department of State
Lawrence Bartlett, Director of Refugee Admissions, Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, U.S. Department of State
The anti-immigrant sentiments of the Republican Party nationally, may once again benefit our state with an immigrant community, many well-educated and knowledgeable about how to work with American service members, who laud and respect them, will be a welcomed opportunity. So as the refugees arrive at Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, it’s a short trip over here for them to get settled.