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Dear Friend,

Attacks in Israel and Gaza

The tragic events unfolding in Israel and Palestine are deeply troubling. The brutal slaughter and hostage-taking of innocent civilians—including women, children and seniors— by Hamas are abhorrent, unlawful and unacceptable. I condemn them in the strongest possible terms. These unspeakable acts of violence will only perpetuate the seemingly never-ending cycle of violence. Just as public officials condemn the killing of hundreds of innocent Israeli civilians and 9 Americans this weekend, public officials must condemn the killing of the innocent Palestinian civilians and the upending of many more lives. Congress must learn from the mistakes of our own war on terror—that military action alone rarely addresses the root causes of violence, that peace and justice do not come from the barrel of a gun, and that targeting an entire civilian population will only sow more discord and perpetuate the cycle of violence. Even in the darkest hours, I will continue to fight for peace, justice and security for all those in the region.

You're Invited to Rep. Ilhan Omar's Resource Fair 

Join Congresswoman Ilhan Omar's District Office for a resource fair. Our team helps hundreds of constituents navigate issues with federal agencies every year – passports, immigration issues, tax issues, Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security, Veteran’s Affairs issues, the US Postal Service, and other federal agencies. The resource fair is free and open to the public.

Event Details 

Date: Tuesday, October 24

Time: 2pm - 5pm CT 

Sabathani Community Center 

310 E 38th St Suite 222

Minneapolis, MN 55409 

Voting YES to remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House

On Tuesday, I joined my fellow Democrats and voted YES on the Motion to Vacate, to remove Kevin McCarthy from the position of Speaker of the House. This decision was made after careful consideration, driven by the necessity of having a leader who genuinely reflects the values and priorities of the American people. Minnesotans need progress on issues like healthcare, childcare, high-paying jobs, and more. They deserve leaders in Congress who stand for democracy and the rule of law. I remain dedicated to serving the people of Minnesota and relentlessly advocating for progress where possible. Please read my full statement here. 

Updates from Washington to the Minneapolis City Council and Spring Lake Park City Council

I recently attended the Minneapolis and Spring Lake Park City Council meeting to provide legislative updates and share my work in Congress, particularly the community projects I have been able to fund back home. These meetings are crucial for understanding the unique needs and priorities of our communities. It's a two-way dialogue that helps bridge the gap between federal and local governance. Your input guides my focus in Congress, ensuring that I represent our constituents effectively and collaboratively.  

Meeting with Anti-Hunger advocates from MAZON and Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis

Dedicated community partners from Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis and MAZON shared their passion for strengthening anti-hunger programs in the Farm Bill. During our meeting, we delved into the profound impact of food insecurity, emphasizing the critical importance of protecting and preserving programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). I also had the opportunity to share my long-standing commitment to food justice. In the upcoming farm bill, I intend to prioritize SNAP and other food security benefits.

Learning about Juvenile Justice prevention with the Hennepin County Youth Justice

I met with the Hennepin County Youth Justice Initiative and learned about their approach to juvenile justice. Hennepin County focuses on both prevention and intervention, operating pre-adjudication facilities like the Juvenile Detention Center and investing in post-adjudication programs. Their approach serves as a blueprint for improving the juvenile justice system, prioritizing prevention, equity, and collaboration. I will continue looking at how we can implement policies like this on the federal level. 

Meeting with Students from St. Anthony Village High School

Earlier this month, I met with St. Anthony Village High School students, and met with Andrea Mason, an art teacher who has motivated her students to participate in my Congressional Art Competition. We chatted about their entries in competition. Their dedication showcases the power of inclusive initiatives and the potential of our youth. I was impressed by the school’s commitment to promoting diversity and acceptance, including hosting National Hijab Day.

Speaking about Cannabis Legalization with Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty.

I had the privilege of moderating a panel on Cannabis Legalization, hosted by Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty. With cannabis recently legalized in Minnesota, I was joined by leaders and advocates in Minnesota and we delved into crucial topics:

• State Rep. Cedrick Frazier addressed the potential impact of racial disparities in the criminal justice system, aligning with his commitment to criminal justice reform.
• Mary shared insights into the impact of this change on public safety.
• Leili Fatehi, as the Campaign Manager for MN is Ready, shed light on the policy problems that motivated our diverse coalition to support this vital change.
• We also explored access and timelines for opening dispensaries, along with the economic effects on Hennepin County and the state.
• Finally, we tackled the challenges posed by Federal Prohibition and discussed the remaining work in marijuana policy.

It was a thoughtful and informative discussion on a critical issue. Last year, The House also passed the MORE (Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement) Act to decriminalize and deschedule cannabis and expunge cannabis offenses. I will continue to engage on the federal level to decriminalize cannabis. 

Advocating for Family Friendly Workplaces at Mayor Bowser’s National Maternal & Infant Health Summit

I had the honor of participating in Mayor Bowser's Maternal and Infant Health Summit, where we discussed the importance of family-friendly workplaces. In my congressional office, we offer 16 weeks of paid parental leave, setting a positive example for others. I shared that my journey in politics was intertwined with raising three young children at home, highlighting the challenges parents face in public service. This translates through my work which includes cosponsoring the Momnibus bill, a transformative piece of legislation that addresses the maternal health crisis through historic investments. I am striving to create a more equitable and family-friendly society where no one has to choose between their career and their children.

In Service,

Ilhan Omar