In a spectacle that defies common sense, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey took pandering to an all-time low in a misguided attempt to celebrate Somalia’s Independence Day. As cameras rolled, Frey decided the best course of action was to dive headfirst into an utterly pointless charade by speaking the Arabic language, and praising a nation still grappling with the shackles of its own dysfunctional governance. One can’t help but question the sanity—or at least the priorities—of a mayor who so eagerly embraces the cultural identity of another nation while undermining his own.
Yes, Frey’s performance could serve as a comedic masterpiece, if only it weren’t part of a disturbing pattern among some American leaders. Apparently, playing dress-up in foreign cultural garb and mindlessly chanting slogans has become the new trend for those desperate to cling to political power. It’s as if they genuinely believe that by embracing every culture but their own, they can somehow secure votes and approval. Frey’s antics should have come with a disclaimer, warning viewers of the sheer absurdity and emptiness behind it all.
Now, let’s face reality: Somalia’s independence didn’t usher in an era of prosperity and order. Quite the opposite. What was once a colony with infrastructure, education, and economic stability devolved into chaos and dysfunction. This isn’t about being judgmental; it’s about looking at facts. Nostalgia for the colonial past might not be politically correct, but it’s hard to deny the glaring contrast between the two eras. A sober look at history would reveal that, sadly, Somalia’s struggles make its independence seem less than triumphant.
Yet Frey, in his bid for cultural kudos, ignores these inconvenient truths. In truth, he would do well to focus more on advancing the interests of his constituents, rather than joining in chorus with those who naturally prioritize their own. After all, his pandering didn’t win him political favor; it probably evoked more cringes than applause. While the Somalis are strategically advancing their national interests, Frey remains busy forfeiting his dignity on the altar of political correctness.
It’s too much to expect reasoned prioritization from leaders like Frey, given the current political climate. But maybe, just maybe, there’s a lesson tucked away in this sad display. When leaders choose appeasement over assertiveness, when they abandon their roots and ideals in favor of a hollow spectacle, they lose more than just an election. They lose respect, dignity, and, ultimately, their own political relevance. Perhaps Mayor Frey and others will realize that it may be time to celebrate what works at home before offering empty flattery abroad.
