The Two Faces of the American Dream

The massive wave of Norwegian immigration to Minnesota from the 1850s through the early 20th century wasn't a casual choice; it was an escape from crushing land scarcity and economic desperation.

My ancestors, the Dunhams, arrived in 1851 and built a life in Otter Tail County in Minnesota. My great-great-grandfather, Jens Christian Dunham, didn’t just survive—he thrived. He served in the Minnesota legislature as a Republican from 1888 to 1890 and later became a staunch advocate for President Teddy Roosevelt. He was the literal embodiment of the American Dream: an immigrant who fled poverty to become a lawmaker in his new home.

Fast forward a century, and a new wave of immigrants—this time from Somalia—is following that exact same blueprint. Like the Norwegians before them, they fled hardship to build a future in Minnesota, and many have run for office to serve the state that welcomed them.

Yet, the political rhetoric surrounding these two groups couldn't be more polarized. Donald Trump has described Somalia as a "disaster" and "filthy," even labeling Somali immigrants as "garbage" who "contribute nothing."

He has relentlessly targeted Congresswoman Ilhan Omar—who, like my great-great-grandfather, is an immigrant serving in government—suggesting she be "thrown the hell out" and inciting "send her back" chants.

He has even explicitly stated a preference for immigrants from countries like Norway over those from Somalia.

The parallels are undeniable. My Norwegian ancestors were fleeing the same struggles as today’s Somali refugees. They sought the same opportunities and achieved the same political milestones.

So, what is the actual difference between the Dunham family’s "success story" and the Somali community’s "threat"? It isn't the work ethic, the patriotism, or the contribution to Minnesota's history. The difference is that my ancestors were white, and Somali immigrants are not.

The bottom line is clear: when a leader praises one group and demonizes the other for the exact same journey, it isn't about policy. It is blatant, undeniable racism. Trump is simply a corrupt racist.

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