y'll somalis live american prolly knew about this but still damn am proud someone like this man have spoken on behalf of our people
The Many and One Coalition of Lewiston-Auburn
Lewiston, ME
To the Many and One Coalition of Lewiston-Auburn:
Your community holds a special place in my memories of boxing, as it was in Lewiston, Maine that I knocked out Sonny Liston in our historic rematch at St. Dominick’s Arena in 1965. That was thirty-eight years ago. Today, I am concerned about an even greater contest going on in Lewiston, one between those ingrained in bigotry and those who have embraced freedom.
I am primarily referring to Mayor Raymond’s open letter (October 1, 2002) to the Somali-American community, which by now has circulated throughout worldwide media. I was especially troubled by his suggestion that the “Somali community must exercise some discipline†in their preference of Lewiston as a place to live. This insinuation was, at best, irresponsible. At worst, it was evidence of a deeper prejudice against a refugee population that has faced unimaginable tribulations in Somalia.
The content and dissemination of the Mayor’s letter may very well have provoked hateful supremacist groups to descend upon Lewiston. His remarks were insensitive and inflammatory. I encourage the Mayor to keep an open mind and to promote tolerance. Doing so will enliven the cultural richness of the community.
Somali-Americans, like all Americans, have the inalienable right to live anywhere in the United States they choose. Moreover, they have a responsibility to raise their children and families in cities and villages that are safe and clean. That many Somali-Americans have found such a place in Lewiston is a credit to that city, and to the State of Maine.
The Many and One Coalition of Lewiston-Auburn has my wholehearted support in combating all forms of racism, discrimination and ethnic divisiveness. I wish only peace and goodwill for every person in Lewiston.
Yours in peace,
Muhammad Ali