Somali Museum seeks $2M funding to expand cultural programs in Minneapolis

The Minnesota Legislature's Committee on Environment, Climate and Legacy convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss funding requests for cultural institutions, notably the Somali Museum and the Hmong Cultural Center.

During the meeting, Osman Ali, founder of the Somali Museum, presented a request for $1 million in funding for both the 2025 and 2026 calendar years. He emphasized the museum's role in preserving and promoting Somali culture, highlighting its educational programs and community events that attract thousands of visitors annually. Ali noted the museum's recent relocation to a larger space in South Minneapolis, which has increased demand for its programs. He expressed the need for additional funding to expand staff and facilities to accommodate growing community interest and participation.

The Somali Museum, recognized as the only one of its kind in North America, houses over 1,500 artifacts and offers various cultural programs, including dance classes and storytelling sessions. Ali stressed that without the requested funding, many of these activities would be at risk due to financial constraints.

Following Ali's testimony, the committee also heard from representatives of the Hmong Cultural Center, which has successfully utilized legacy grants in the past. The center's executive director, Hongkawi Li, outlined the importance of their programs in educating the public about Hmong culture and history. He reported that the center served over 2,000 visitors in 2024 and hosted numerous educational events, including the annual King and Hmong Music Festival.

Li's request for continued funding aims to enhance cultural education and community engagement, ensuring that Minnesota residents have access to Hmong heritage and traditions. The committee members expressed support for both institutions, recognizing their contributions to cultural understanding and community cohesion in Minnesota.

The discussions highlighted the significance of state funding in sustaining cultural institutions that serve diverse communities and promote heritage education. The committee will consider these requests as part of the ongoing budget discussions for the upcoming fiscal years.