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A delectable feast. Organizers of the July 1 Somali Independence Day celebration serve up a Somalian feast of Sambusa, potatoes, chicken, rice and more. Classic Somalian dance performances, along with a history presentation were also part of the event. Leslie Collins

Northeast News
July 6, 2011

“You have set an example for this city,” Kansas City Mayor Sly James said.

James commended the Somali population during the July 1 Somali Independence Day celebration at the American Sons of Columbus Hall, 2415 Independence Ave.

Continuing with his speech, James thanked the Somalis for living in peace and reaching out to others in the community. He also encouraged them become involved in city government.

“If we as a city do not invite each and every person, each and every group, each and every nationality, then we’re missing the boat,” he said. “Please help us to run it (city) better than it’s been.”

State Rep. JJ Rizzo stressed the importance of unity in Kansas City.

“It’s important to integrate all of our cultures and communities to become one district, so we can move forward,” Rizzo said.

Also in attendance were 3rd District City Council Member Melba Curls and county legislator Theresa Garza Ruiz.

During the Independence Day celebration, a short historical presentation was given, which stated that approximately 5,000 Somalis live in the Kansas City metro and that 99 percent came as legal refugees.

Following the presentation, Somali attendees broke out their dance moves to demonstrate classic Somalian dance and later served a Somalian meal.