What we heard from SomFam participants in the Minnesota: Land of Neighbors Listening Session
On October 24, 22 members of the Somali, immigrant and broader East Metro communities gathered to share stories and conversations about what it means to be a good neighbor, the challenges of building relationships across cultural differences and the shared values that can bring Minnesotans together.
A central message emerged: Neighborliness begins with small, everyday acts of kindness. But, building a stronger community requires something more: curiosity, courage and a willingness to reach beyond familiar circles.
Neighborliness starts close to home
Participants described neighborliness in practical, personal terms. It means greeting people by name, shoveling a neighbor's sidewalk, sharing groceries, watching over packages, lending tools and checking on elderly residents or families in need. These gestures create a sense of belonging among people with different backgrounds, beliefs and priorities.
Third spaces, such as schools and community organizations, can create opportunities to build connections across cultures. But it can be difficult to cultivate these beyond your immediate community, and in some neighborhoods, people are isolated, even though they live close to each other. Stronger relationships require intentional effort and can be as simple as knocking on a neighbor’s door or exchanging phone numbers. Being willing to ask questions before making assumptions and listening with an open mind can create understanding and friendship.
The challenges of crossing cultural lines
Language differences, unfamiliar customs, cultural misunderstandings and suspicion of people with foreign accents can make it difficult to create meaningful relationships. And while some people feel welcomed and supported, others have experienced exclusion or hesitation from people outside their cultural communities.
Another recurring theme that has come up in other listening sessions is the tendency to avoid disagreement rather than address it. People may remain silent to keep the peace, but avoiding those difficult conversations doesn't resolve differences. Instead, those disagreements may show up on social media where misunderstandings and polarization can grow.
While it can be difficult to cross these divides, many have done so successfully: delivering groceries, multifaith congregations coming and neighbors stepping forward when others needed help. These examples demonstrated that compassion and solidarity can cross cultural and political boundaries.
What Minnesotans have in common
Despite differences in culture, language, religion and life experience, participants say many of us do have shared aspirations. Safe neighborhoods, strong schools, economic opportunity and communities where families can thrive are all important. Just as important is having their children grow up feeling secure, respected and free from discrimination.
The discussion also reinforced the importance of recognizing that Minnesota's strength comes from the many communities and experiences that make up the state.
Moving forward: Turning good intentions into action
Building community doesn't happen simply because people live near one another. Taking deliberate steps to move out of your comfort zone isn’t easy, but it creates opportunities for genuine connection.
Unity doesn't mean giving up cultural identities or pretending differences don't exist. It means making room for those differences while recognizing what people share.