Homeland Relief Prompts U.S. Somalis to Celebrate

Somalia native Mohamad Osman had never celebrated Christmas before, but he thought this would be a good year to start.

With U.S. troops bringing relief to the millions starving in his homeland, Osman, 26, and about 40 other Somali immigrants from throughout Southern California presented a special Christmas program outside the Ivanhoe Motel Thursday night, bringing carols and Christmas presents to needy families there.

“I am a child of Somali,” said Osman, who came to the United States eight years ago. “Most of us have never celebrated Christmas before. But tonight, we are so happy that our children are fed. I can think of no greater gift than to have the strong help the weak in the family of nations.”

As a red carpet was rolled out to receive him, Santa Claus arrived with dozens of presents for the eight to 10 families gathered outside.

“I think the whole thing is great,” said Rusty Downs, 32, who is living in the motel with his three children. “They are showing their support for our military and are really showing unity.”

The festive program, which included Somali songs and traditional Christmas carols was videotaped and will be sent to the troops overseas.

The event was the idea of Northridge resident Soraya Mire, who left her native Somalia in 1978.

“We wanted to get together to thank the troops,” said Mire, now an independent filmmaker in Los Angeles. “We are looking forward to a peaceful time. We have to help and work together to rebuild Somalia.”

Last month, Mire and 25 other people, some fellow Somalians, formed Caring Voices for Somalia, a group dedicated to assisting Somali refugees, most of whom are living in San Diego.