Hosting our Monthly Town hall

Thank you to all those who joined us for our monthly town hall in Richfield! I was able to hear your concerns, your ideas, and your hopes for the future. Whether we're talking about healthcare, housing, education, or the fight for justice, your voices shape the priorities I bring with me to the People’s House. In case you missed it, you can watch our livestream here. 

 

Fighting to Protect Workers at the Education and Workforce Committee Markup 

During the Education and Workforce Committee markup, Republicans introduced a bill that would designate workers who use entrepreneurial discretion in their day to day jobs as independent contractors. It could strip millions of workers of their basic rights and labor protections. I introduced an amendment to protect workers, like nurses and nutritionists, from losing their labor rights and employee status under this bill. Unfortunately, Republicans leading the committee pulled down a vote on a human trafficking bill because they refused to consider an amendment on the Epstein files. Watch my introduction of the amendment here.

 

Meeting with Mahmoud Khalil

People across the country are facing consequences simply for standing up against the genocide in Palestine and that should concern all of us. I spoke with Mahmoud Khalil, who was wrongfully detained under the Trump administration for exercising his constitutional rights. He was detained by Department of Homeland Security agents on March 8 and spent over three months deprived of his liberty at an immigration detention facility in Jena, Louisiana before being ordered released by a federal district court judge on June 20. His experience highlights a long history of attempts to silence voices that challenge injustice.

 

Celebrating 100 Years of Washburn High School

I had the honor of presenting Washburn High School with a Congressional Record Statement, formally recognizing their 100 years of service to South Minneapolis and Minnesota’s Fifth District. Through academic excellence, a deep commitment to the arts, and a legacy of athletic achievement, Washburn has shaped generations of leaders. I am so proud to uplift their contributions in the official record of Congress and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire and lead in the next hundred years.

 

Visiting Seniors at The Pillars of Prospect Park

This week, I joined Minnesota Rep. Mohamud Noor for a conversation with senior residents at the Pillars of Prospect Park. I regularly visit senior living facilities because I want to hear directly from residents about their concerns and challenges. Many of the folks we spoke with shared how worried they are about affording health insurance, paying for prescriptions, keeping up with rent and groceries on a fixed income. I will always fight to defend and strengthen Social Security and Medicare, lower prescription drug costs, and expand access to care and nutrition. I’m grateful to have partners in Minnesota like Rep. Noor, who’s doing incredible work in the state legislature. I will keep showing up and listening to our community so that I can help build a government that works for the people.

 

Speaking out Against Nuclear Weapons

Last week, I took to the House floor to speak out in support of nuclear arms control. I have long spoken in support of H.Res.317, Rep. Jim McGovern’s resolution urging the United States to lead the world back from the brink of nuclear war and reverse the nuclear arms race. There are only two ways the era of nuclear weapons will end: either we abolish them or they abolish us. As the only country to ever use nuclear weapons in war, the United States has a moral responsibility to lead efforts toward global disarmament. It’s a necessary step toward securing a livable future for generations to come. Watch my remarks here. 

 

Celebrating the Opening of Wadaag Commons

Community members, leaders, and advocates came together to celebrate the grand opening of Wadaag Commons. It’s a new housing development that will provide 39 affordable units for 200 individuals and help combat homelessness in the heart of our district. As part of the 2021 legislative session, I was proud to partner with Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar to secure $1.8 million in federal funding for this project, part of a larger $45 million public investment.  Congratulations to everyone who helped bring this vision to life. I will keep fighting to ensure everyone in Minneapolis’s 5th district has access to safe, affordable housing they can call home.

North Commons Groundbreaking

It was incredible to join the community at the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of North Commons Park. Since the 1970s, North Commons has been a gathering space for wellness. That’s why I was so proud to help secure $2 million in federal funding to support its expansion. The renovation will include a new three-gym field house, waterpark slides, swimming lessons, athletic programs, and updated infrastructure to ensure the park continues to be an inclusive space for everyone.

 

In Service, 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilhan Omar