Minneapolis Police Chief Issues Public Apology After Controversial Comment on Somali Youth

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara has issued a formal apology to the city’s Somali community after sparking outrage with a remark referring to a group of young people as “East African kids.” The comment, made during a recent news conference, quickly drew criticism from community leaders who said the phrasing reinforced harmful stereotypes and unfairly singled out Somali youth.

The remark came as O’Hara addressed rising safety concerns in parts of the city. While outlining recent incidents involving teenagers, he described some of those involved as “East African kids,” a phrase that many interpreted as casting broad suspicion on Somali and other East African communities — groups that make up a vibrant and significant part of Minneapolis’ cultural landscape.

Within hours, community advocates, elected officials, and residents voiced frustration, saying the chief’s language risked stigmatizing an entire community rather than addressing individual incidents.

In response, O’Hara moved quickly to clarify his statement. During a public meeting at a local community center, he acknowledged the harm the remark caused and took full responsibility.

“I want to sincerely apologize,” he said. “My words were careless, and I understand how they reinforced negative stereotypes that Somali families have worked hard to overcome. That was never my intention, and I take this very seriously.”

The Somali community — one of the largest in the United States — has long expressed concerns about being disproportionately scrutinized by law enforcement. Community leaders said O’Hara’s apology was a necessary step, but they stressed the need for sustained dialogue and structural change.

“We appreciate the apology, but our trust has been shaken many times,” said community organizer Amina Hassan. “We need to see long-term commitment — not just words — to ensure our young people are not unfairly portrayed or targeted.”

City officials also weighed in, urging the police department to strengthen community partnerships and increase cultural competency training for officers. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey welcomed the chief’s apology, noting that constructive engagement is essential to maintaining safety and trust.

O’Hara pledged to continue meeting with Somali families, elders, and youth leaders in the coming weeks. He emphasized his commitment to repairing relationships and addressing the root causes of misunderstandings.

“I am here to listen, to learn, and to do better,” he said.

The incident arrives at a sensitive moment for Minneapolis, a city still rebuilding trust between police and residents after years of national scrutiny. For Somali families — many of whom fled conflict to build new lives in Minnesota — the hope now is that the apology marks the beginning of more thoughtful collaboration and a deeper understanding between law enforcement and the communities they serve.