By Okon Ekpenyong

The Columbus City Council marked Somalia’s 65th Independence Day with a City Hall lighting ceremony on July 1, 2025. Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer hosted the event, which included speeches from community leaders celebrating the Somali community’s history, culture, and contributions. The building was illuminated in blue, symbolizing the colors of the Somali flag, to honor this important event.

This celebration reflects the strong connections between the city of Columbus and the Somali community. In a statement, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated the people and government of Somalia on their national day, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to enhancing shared relations and collaborating on economic development and countering extremism. 

The ceremony also highlighted the city’s acknowledgment of the contributions made by the Somali community, with Councilmember Day-Achauer playing a significant role in coordinating the event.

The Somali community in Columbus has been actively promoting their culture and traditions, exemplified by events such as the Somali Cultural Festival, which received recognition from the Columbus City Council, the State of Ohio, the State Senate, and the House of Representatives.

The city of Columbus and its surrounding area have the second-largest Somali population in the United States, attributed to lower living costs, affordable housing, and available job opportunities.

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