Ilhan Omar - From Refugee Camp To Congress As First Somali Woman Elected To US Congress

Ilhan & Her Dad

This brief story was written by Ilhan's father on how they left the shores of Africa some years ago and arrived at the United States of America, with the hope of a good life. 

Ilhan's dad (Nur Mohamed) narrated, twenty three years ago, my family and I arrived at an airport in Washington DC. We were newly arrived refugees in the country, from a refugee camp in Kenya. I had heard about the promise of America, prosperity for all and hope for a better tomorrow.

I could never have dreamed that twenty threes years later, I would return to the same airport with my daughter Ilhan by my side, the day before she is to be sworn in as the first Somali-American elected to the United States Congress.

You, of course, can imagine how emotional this is and why I am incredibly proud of her.

It's an honor to have her represent me and our family is so humbled that Ilhan has the opportunity to serve in our democracy. I wish Ilhan's grandfather could be here to witness this historic moment. He will be here in spirit as Ilhan will place her hand on his Quran for the ceremonial swearing in.

Tomorrow, members of Ilhan's team will be covering the events of the day. We all hope you will follow along and share in our excitement for what the New Year will bring.

As Ilhan would say, forward together.