Thirty four year old Ilhan Omar made history after becoming the first elected Somali American legislator. The mother of three is also a policy analyst, community organizer, and the Director of Policy Initiatives at Women Organizing Women, which is a group geared to empower women from all walks of life. Her relentless pursuit of the rights of all citizens has earned her great respect.
At the age of 12, Representative Omar escaped the Somali civil war. After living in a refugee camp for four years, she moved to the United States in hopes of a better future. The former refugee who proudly wears the hijab, made history and became the American dream after her strong triumph in the Minnesota House race. As American Muslims continue to struggle at a time where they are strictly scrutinized, they are proud to have a Muslim woman climb the U.S. legislative ranks. Great hopes for change ride on the slim shoulders of this remarkable woman.
What inspired you to become part of politics?
I fell in love with politics at the age of 14 when she acted as her grandfather's interpreter so he could participate in their local DFL caucus, in the District she now represents. Watching neighbors come together to advocate for change at the grassroots level inspired her to get involved in the democratic process.
When did you know you wanted to become a member of the House of Representative?
I came to the realization that I actually wanted to run for the House of Representatives in 2015. There wasn’t really one day or one thing that led to me to deciding to run for office. It seems like my work with Women Organizing Women, my activism in the community, and my values as a progressive kept pushing me towards this decision.
Being a member of the House of Representatives isn’t an easy job. What’s the most challenging part about this position?
The schedule, hands down. The Star Tribune recently wrote an article about how difficult it is being a legislator with young kids and I have to agree. Long and unpredictable days and nights make it difficult to let your family know when you will be able to come home.
Can you tell me a little about your earlier career choices? How did your previous occupations lead you to where you are now?
I worked for City Council Member Andrew Johnson and with an organization called Women Organizing Women. Those jobs really gave me perspective in terms of what it means to be actively engaged in democracy. Working with Council Member Johnson, whom I consider a close friend, helped me fine tune my policy work and community engagement. Working for Women Organizing Women gave me the courage to do what I had been telling so many other women, you can do whatever you put your mind to and if running for office and being a community leader is that thing, don’t let anyone stop you.
Walk us through a day in your life as an American legislator.
My day started with legislative session at 10:00 AM. We recessed then went to caucus with my fellow DFL colleagues. After that, we went back to the House Chamber to vote on bills that were scheduled for the day. I then had to wait around the office until about 9:00 PM because it seemed like there might be movement on the Higher Education Conference Committee Report. We waited only to find out that they were going to schedule a meeting for 8:30 AM today.
While campaigning, did you ever fear a setback of being elected because of your status as a woman, a former refugee, or a Muslim?
No. I am not ignorant of the barriers that exist for Muslims, women, and people of color, but that would never deter me from pursuing a better life, let alone running for public office. The America I choose to believe in is one where, no matter your religion, no matter your gender, and no matter your skin color, every opportunity is within reach.
Eighty percent of the people’s vote went to you. How did you set yourself apart from others who were running against you?
Well, I believe I made my progressive values and stances very clear. In the general election it came down to just me and one Republican candidate
What’s the best career advice given to you?
Work hard and be on time.
What are some advices you would give to your younger self at the onset of your career?
Work hard, stay focused, and enjoy the journey.
What message do you have for inspiring women who want to pursue a career in politics?
Don’t be afraid to fail. History doesn’t often judge an individual by their successes, but rather by how they deal with and respond to failures. Be bold.
