Translated by Diis M. Abdirizak
MINNESOTA — Following President Trump’s recent remarks targeting the Somali community, Minnesotans from every race, faith, and background have firmly pushed back against his rhetoric.
As a former high school teacher who helped develop Somali Studies programs in the United States, I want to share a poem that powerfully reflects the spirit, identity, and resilience of the Somali people. I hope this poem reaches President Trump and those who embrace his views.
“I Am Somali” was originally written and performed in 1977 by the esteemed Somali poet Abdulqadir Hersi Yam Yam. Though penned decades ago, its message resonates profoundly in today’s climate.
I Am Somali
I am Somali.
In these challenging days,
if you have truly lived,
look back on the past,
follow its lessons,
and ask yourself:
Who is Somali?
No living soul can oppress me.
Because I believe in equality,
no person stands above me.
When you visit me,
you will find genuine hospitality—never half-hearted.
I AM SOMALI.
To those who pretend to care
while threatening me with chains:
you are like a vessel full of holes,
your double-dealing exposed.
Your attempts to betray me will never prevail.
I AM SOMALI.
Though I may have little, my head remains high.
I do not beg; I am wealthy in
self-respect, dignity, and pride.
If you oppose me, I will not yield.
If you are my friend, I offer you my whole heart.
I AM SOMALI.
The road ahead is hard but unmistakable.
The journey may be painful,
though my borders are well-known.
My sword can bring danger and sorrow,
yet my soul already hangs on the tree.
I AM SOMALI.
The one who can harm me barely exists—
and if he comes close, he will find resistance.
If victory becomes mine, I will not oppress.
Every wronged person will regain their rights,
and even my enemies will receive justice.
I AM SOMALI.
I dread war and always seek peace,
but I will not retreat from those who threaten me.
If they come too near, I will defend myself.
I will not turn away from hostility—
for I am no coward.
I AM SOMALI.
Swift as the wind,
yet never reckless.
Potent as venom,
yet wrapped in patience.
Where goodness is needed, I strive to bring it.
I AM SOMALI.
To the one who refuses to hear my voice:
I will not be forced to comply.
Together with others across the world,
I will break the chains of oppression—
a servant to no one,
free and unburdened.
I AM SOMALI.
Though your wealth may exceed mine,
do not approach me with patronizing charity.
I do not seek your empty praise.
I am awake—
your hollow promises cannot persuade me.
I AM SOMALI.
While I tended my cattle, you divided my people,
scattering us like livestock far and wide.
But my identity—my mark—cannot be erased.
My duty is clear now:
to do what is right,
to fulfill my obligation—
to reunite.
I AM SOMALI.
