language

In a recent statement, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his concerns regarding the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, emphasizing the need for Israel to de-escalate the situation. This follows his attempt to broker a ceasefire, which he noted both nations have since violated. As he departed from the White House, Mr. Trump remarked, "I need to get Israel to calm down now." He elaborated on the urgency of the situation, stating, "As soon as we made the deal, they came out and dropped a load of bombs, the likes of…

Somali Language Marks a Landmark Moment at Hajj Pilgrimage Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant development for Somali-speaking Muslims around the world, Somali will be introduced as one of the official languages for translating key sermons during the Hajj pilgrimage. This groundbreaking announcement was made this past week by Somalia’s Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, marking a monumental step for Somali pilgrims participating in one of Islam’s most esteemed rituals. Minister Mukhtar Robow Ali made this…

The Journey of the Somali Language: A Complex Tapestry Many people often ponder a significant question: Why did it take twelve years of independence and two decades of national discussions to reach a consensus on a written Somali language? The answer, as noted by David D. Laitin, is anything but straightforward. He remarked, “Whenever the matter was raised, foreign elements came at work. The people would split into factions—some supporting Somali script for nationalistic reasons, some advocating Arabic script on religious…

Refounding Niger's Identity - A Journey Away from Colonial Shadows Much has changed in Niger recently, amid shifting political landscapes and an underlying wave of national pride. The Refoundation Charter, etched into the pages of Niger's Official Journal and reverberating through the country's online and offline corridors, signals a deliberate pivot towards a sovereign identity. As reported by Sputnik, this document encapsulates a narrative of resistance and rekindled selfhood. At…

In a significant move to honor the historical legacy and contributions of marginalized groups, a new inscription in the lxam language has been etched into the façade of Rhodes House at Oxford University. This endeavor acknowledges the tribulations and relentless labor of those whose hardships ultimately contributed to Cecil Rhodes’ immense wealth. The lxam inscription was skillfully crafted by Fergus Wessel, a stone mason hailing from the UK, whose work is steeped in the traditions of the English Arts and Crafts movement.…

In a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, China's call for the United States to "correct its mistakes" resonates amid recent developments concerning Taiwan. This plea came in response to updates made by the US State Department, which altered certain language on its website regarding Taiwan independence. According to US officials, these adjustments were part of standard procedural practices, yet they carry significant implications. Last week, the fact sheet on Taiwan was revised, maintaining Washington's stance against…

Marian Hassan, a passionate educator, has dedicated her career to teaching Minnesotans about the Somali language and capturing oral histories from elderly Somali residents. This enthusiastic endeavor is essential to stopping the impending loss of language in the state. With her insightful work, Marian highlights an issue close to her heart—protecting Somalia's rich cultural legacy. Although Somali ranks as the third most spoken language in Minnesota, following English and Spanish, it's fascinating to realize that it wasn't…

In a recent rally, Donald Trump firmly asserted to his followers that he is "not a Nazi." His statement aimed to counter accusations of authoritarianism, notably from a former senior aide who had labeled him a fascist. As the election heads into its tense final week, the rivalry between him and Kamala Harris, the sitting vice president, has escalated, with both sides intensifying their political discourse amidst a historic campaign. Harris, a Democrat, has accused Trump of inciting division across the nation. While she…

FARGO — First-time voters need to catch on to the basics, but picking up scoops on candidates seems daunting when English ain't your native lingo. It's like deciphering a secret code buried in the news or on the web. Tackling these language barriers, the League of Women Voters in Red River Valley joined forces with local champs, rolling out digital voting tools in English, Somali, and Arabic. These resources center on North Dakota's House and Senate hopefuls. "Folks will be stunned by our community's linguistic diversity,"…

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn (AX) — In Stearns County, language barriers continue to thwart Somali-speaking residents from exercising their voting rights, despite Minnesota's efforts to promote accessible voting. With no legal stipulations for Somali interpreters at polling stations, many potential voters struggle with English proficiency, hindering their ability to cast votes. Minnesota legislation mandates voting materials in Somali, Spanish, and Hmong to reflect prevalent non-English languages in the state. However, these…