Dear Friend,
I hope you can join me for a tele-town hall to connect and discuss the issues facing our community. I'll provide updates on my recent work in Congress and will be answering your questions. Eventbrite registration is required.
Tele-Town Hall Details:
Date: Thursday, November 9th Time: 6-7 pm CT RSVP HERE
Helping Constituents at our Resource Fair
Thank you to everyone who came out at our recent Resource Fair. Our staff helped more than 40 of our constituents with issues related to immigration, social security, and healthcare. If you need any assistance regarding federal issues, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office!
Israel/Gaza Update
I remain firmly committed to promoting peace and securing a prompt ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages still held. Over the past weeks, I have taken action by cosponsoring a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) condemning Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Israel and called for the release of innocent civilian hostages. I co-sponsored a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Cori Bush (D-MO) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. I also joined Democrats in opposing Republicans’ bill which would tie Israel funding to tax giveaways for wealthy tax cheats, and opposed a non-binding resolution in Congress that failed to acknowledge any of the Palestinian civilians who have lost lives in the siege of Gaza.
Last week, I was moved and honored to meet with the family members of Israeli-American hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. We must do everything in our power to negotiate the safe release of all hostages. I will remain in touch with regional partners and NGOs to push for the release of the hostages, an end to the unjust targeting of civilians, and an immediate ceasefire.
Met with Volunteers at Sabathani Food Shelf
For nearly five decades, Sabathani Community Center has been a lifeline for South Minneapolis residents. Earlier this week, I met with volunteers at the food distribution center to continue the tradition of service providing food to those in need. In the upcoming Farm Bill I hope to increase funding for nutrition services, like SNAP allocations. By doing so, it would revitalize our local communities, and support our farmers, all while strengthening South Minneapolis.
Recognizing Native Books and Art at Birchbark Books
November is Native American Heritage Month, making this the perfect time to lift up the rich culture and voices of our country's first people. I had the honor of visiting Birchbark Books, an independent bookstore owned by acclaimed author Louise Erdrich, an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Birchbark Bookstore is a treasure trove of literature and art that celebrates Native and historically marginalized voices. It was inspiring to explore their shelves filled with the works of talented Native authors and to be captivated by Indigenous art. This small business highlights the importance of uplifting Native voices and culture.
I will to push at the federal level to improve public education about the histories of Native Americans.
Visiting Seniors at The Legends of Silver Lake Village in St. Anthony
I recently met with senior residents at The Legends of Silver Lake Village in St. Anthony. Listening to their stories, one challenge rang out clearly - the struggle to afford housing on fixed incomes. As rent and other costs rise, many seniors shared their fears about losing their homes. Others expressed the inability to find affordable housing options. The soaring housing market leaves too many seniors behind.
I will continue to call on the federal government to reinvest in public housing, expand rental assistance, and provide funding for affordable senior housing. Congress must pass laws that make housing accessible, not out of reach.
Connecting with Women & Children at St. Anne’s Place – Haven Housing
St. Anne's Place is an emergency shelter serving women and children in our community. Meeting with shelter residents, I was moved by their strength and inspired by the critical services St. Anne's provides. At St. Anne's Place, women and children find safety, support, and access to resources to get back on their feet. This emergency shelter provides over provides a safe place for up to 16 families, mental healthcare, employment assistance, and so much more.
In Solidarity,
Ilhan Omar
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