November 12, 2023
Nadia Mohamed made history on Nov. 7 when she was elected by the people of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, to be their mayor. According to the Philadelphia Tribune, Mohamed is believed to be the first Somali-American democratically elected to be mayor in United States history.
Mohamed also became the first Black mayor in the town’s history, in addition to becoming the first Somali-American mayor in Minnesota’s history. Mohamed was previously the first Somali-American elected to city council in 2019. There was another Somali-American mayor, but Deqa Dhalac was appointed by a city council vote in 2021 by the South Portland, Maine, council. In any case, Mohamed is excited about her win and eager to get started, as she told the Minneapolis Star Tribune, “This is a milestone. This is not the destination. As mayor, I want to ensure people see themselves reflected in our policies.”
St Louis Parks Makes History in Minnesota by electing the first Muslim Mayor in the history of the state and younges in the history of city. Nadia Mohamed. pic.twitter.com/Q24GUBjBUo
Mohamed ran a progressive campaign focused on community policing and housing reform to create more affordable housing. She also received a boon in the form of an endorsement from the outgoing mayor, Jake Spano, whose choice not to seek reelection cleared the path for Mohamed’s victory. Mohamed also secured endorsements from Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, Rep. Larry Kraft, and Rep. Cheryl Youakim.
Nadia Mohamed, a Somali-Muslim woman, has been elected mayor of St Louis Park. The city is home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Minnesota. Contrary to those who wish to instigate tension between our communities,this election represents a sign of hope and unity. pic.twitter.com/tIXTgKbZZp
Mohamed won her election handily, capturing almost 60% of the vote from her constituents. Mohamed reflected on the quiet strength of her mother, who inspired her as she made her campaign. Mohamed told supporters on election day, “I have watched a courageous woman handle her business every day. That courage comes easy to me now.”
Minneapolis and St. Paul elections may dominate tomorrow morning’s headlines, but history was made tonight in the western suburbs.
St. Louis Park and Golden Valley both elected a Black woman as their next mayor!
Congratulations to mayors-elect Roslyn Harmon and Nadia Mohamed.
RELATED CONTENT: MAINE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTS FIRST BLACK HOUSE SPEAKER RACHEL TALBOT ROSS
Enter your Email Address below to get our fun-filled Newsletter!
© 2023 Black Enterprise. All Rights Reserved.