On Friday evening, AYCO was honored to host a historic dinner bringing together Oregon state and federal leaders and the Portland-area Somali community in a powerful show of unity, dignity, and belonging. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to Governor Tina Kotek, First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Senate Majority Leader Kayse Jama, and Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai for standing publicly and unequivocally with Oregon’s Somali community.

At a time when harmful rhetoric and targeted immigration enforcement have caused fear and uncertainty for immigrant communities nationwide, our state leadership made it clear: Somali Oregonians belong here, contribute here, and make Oregon stronger. Their words of affirmation, protection, and solidarity resonated deeply with families, elders, youth, and community leaders in the room.

We also want to offer a huge thank you to the Somali community—to everyone who attended, supported, organized, cooked, welcomed, and showed up with courage and pride. This was more than a dinner; it was a moment of history. Together, we demonstrated resilience, unity, and the power of community in the face of hate.Special thanks to Amaye International Restaurant for providing a beautiful meal that celebrated the richness of Somali culture and hospitality.

AYCO is proud to continue serving and advocating for East African immigrant and refugee families across the Portland Metro area. Moments like this reaffirm our mission and strengthen our resolve to build a future rooted in safety, opportunity, and belonging for all.

Thank you to our state leadership. Thank you to our community. Together, we made history.

Read More from the Governor's Office:
Oregon Leaders Stand with Somali Community, Denounce President Trump’s Attacks