Jan 26 enewsletter j

Dear Friend,

As this shutdown drags on, I’ve been back home in the district talking with Minnesotans, visiting local businesses and hearing directly from you about how this is impacting your lives. People are frustrated and rightfully so. Families are worried about missed paychecks, small businesses are feeling the strain, and communities that depend on federal services are left in limbo. While they play politics, I’m focused on what matters: listening to you, lifting up your stories, and fighting for a government that actually works for the people it serves. Here’s a look at what I’ve been up to in the district and in Washington.

October Town Hall

During my October town hall at the Ukrainian American Community Center, Minnesotans made it clear that they want Democrats to keep fighting to protect their access to affordable, quality health care. I was joined by State Senator Clark, State Representative Jordan, District 2 Board Chair Fernando, City Council Member Rainville, and City Council Member Wonsley for this important discussion. Conservatives must take responsibility and fix the health care crisis their policies created. In case you missed it, you can watch a livestream here.

SEIU's Asian Pacific Islander Summit

I was honored to open SEIU’s Asian Pacific Islander Summit in Minneapolis and celebrate the incredible achievements of AAPI workers and labor leaders. As Ranking Member on the House Workforce Protections Subcommittee, I spoke about the critical role unions have played in securing higher wages, safer workplaces, and a stronger voice for working people. I also highlighted the urgent need to push back against the Trump Administration’s policies attacks on worker protections. I’m proud to stand with AAPI workers and all union members fighting for dignity, fairness, and an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few.

Reintroducing the No Shame at School Act

Across the country, children are being denied hot lunches or even chased by debt collectors because their families can’t afford school meal fees. That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce the No Shame at School Act with Senator Tina Smith. This bill ensures that children aren’t punished or humiliated over meal debt and that schools can no longer use debt collectors to target families. Here in Minnesota, we’ve already led the way by guaranteeing universal school meals for every child. It’s time to bring that same compassion and common sense to the entire nation. You can read more in my op-ed here.

Celebrating Latine Heritage Month

¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Latina! I was thrilled to celebrate Latine Heritage Month by hosting an event with some of my district’s Latine leaders. I was joined by community leaders doing amazing work with and for our Latine community members, as well as Mayor of Columbia Heights Amáda Márquez Simula.

Hennepin Healthcare Center for Addiction Medicine

I joined Commissioner Angela Conley, Dr. Lauren K. Graber, and other staff members for a tour of Hennepin Healthcare’s Center for Addiction Medicine, a vital facility providing care and support to those struggling with addiction. I’m proud to have secured $4.6 million in federal funding for Hennepin Healthcare. Addiction is a public health crisis, and investing in clinics like this is a critical step toward building healthier communities across our state.

FAIR School Visit

I had the pleasure of visiting FAIR School Crystal, a middle school with a focus on STEAM education. It was especially meaningful to return after my visit two years ago, when I worked with the then-6th graders to help plan their outdoor learning spaces. Seeing their progress and hearing directly from students about their projects reminded me why supporting innovative education is so important. As a member of Congress, I remain committed to championing programs and policies that give students the tools they need to succeed.

CD5 Mayor’s Luncheon

I hosted my annual Mayors’ Luncheon this week in Crystal with support from Mayor Julie Deshler. It was wonderful to see so many city leaders, including new mayors, gather to connect, share updates, and discuss the issues affecting their communities. During the luncheon, I provided an update from Washington, D.C., including the ongoing government shutdown and the urgent healthcare crisis caused by Republican policies. The Mayors also shared updates from their cities, and I heard how local leaders are addressing challenges on the ground. I emphasized that my office is always available to help constituents navigate federal services. This annual luncheon is a reminder of the importance of collaboration between local and federal leaders. I’m committed to continuing to work with mayors and community partners to support Minnesotans across every corner of the district.

Somali Networking Night

The Somali networking night is a great gathering of professionals across various fields, including law, business, medicine, and more. I shared information about the constituent services our office provides, which include helping people navigate federal agencies. I’m grateful for the chance to continue working alongside our Somali community to make sure they have access to resources.

In Service,

Ilhan Omar