Nationwide, February 1, 2026
Somali-run child care centers are facing increased scrutiny and harassment nationwide following a viral video by right-wing influencer Nick Shirley. The video claimed fraud among Somali providers in Minneapolis, which sparked fear and safety concerns in urban areas with large immigrant populations. Despite official investigations finding no evidence of fraud, the backlash against these centers continues to escalate, prompting local officials to condemn the harassment and emphasize the need for a balanced approach to free speech and community safety.
Right-Wing Influencers Target Somali Child Care Centers Nationwide
Nationwide—Concerns are rising across the United States as Somali-run child care centers have become the focus of scrutiny following a viral video released by a right-wing influencer. This development has ignited fears about safety and the potential for harassment among child care providers, particularly in urban areas with significant immigrant populations. The response from local officials and community advocates highlights the need to balance free speech with the safety and dignity of these vulnerable businesses.
Viral Video Sparks Nationwide Attention
In late December 2025, right-wing influencer Nick Shirley released a video in which he alleged that members of Minneapolis’s large Somali community were operating fraudulent child care centers to exploit federal subsidies. Quickly gaining popularity, the video garnered over 135 million views on Twitter and 3 million on YouTube. Despite the video’s reach, subsequent investigations by state officials found no evidence to support claims of fraud at the facilities featured.
Escalation of Harassment and Safety Concerns
Following the video’s release, an alarming trend of harassment targeting Somali-run child care centers has emerged across the nation. In San Diego, provider Samsam Khalif faced unsettling incidents, including two men with cameras parked outside her home-based center, prompting her to strengthen security measures. Similarly, locations in Federal Way, Washington, and Columbus, Ohio, have reported visits from right-wing influencers and journalists, leading to unauthorized filming and threatening behavior toward child care providers.
Official Responses and Ongoing Challenges
In the wake of these developments, local officials have condemned the harassment and defended the integrity of Somali-run child care facilities. Leaders such as Seattle’s mayor and Ohio’s governor have publicly denounced the intimidation tactics employed by some influencers. On the federal level, officials from the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division have cautioned against limiting what they consider protected speech, indicating the complexity of navigating free expression versus safety concerns. Advocates for child care reform argue that the focus on alleged fraud detracts from urgent discussions about the need for better funding and support for child care systems nationwide.
Background on the Allegations
The controversy gained momentum from Nick Shirley’s video, which depicted Somali-run child care centers in Minnesota as purportedly inactive or underutilized, coupled with public payment records. However, the subsequent investigations revealed a lack of substantial evidence supporting the fraud claims, intensifying scrutiny toward innocent operators and creating an environment of fear.
Impact on Somali Communities
The targeting of Somali child care centers has created heightened tensions within Somali communities across the United States. Providers are increasingly concerned about their ability to offer safe and nurturing environments for children, especially amid mounting scrutiny and the threat of harassment. This situation highlights broader issues regarding immigration enforcement and the treatment of immigrant communities within the United States, raising questions about preparedness and resilience in the face of adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What sparked the targeting of Somali child care centers?
A viral video released by right-wing influencer Nick Shirley alleged fraud in Somali-run child care centers in Minneapolis, leading to increased targeting by right-wing influencers nationwide.
Have the fraud allegations been substantiated?
Subsequent investigations by state officials found no evidence of fraud at the sites visited by Nick Shirley.
What actions have been taken in response to the targeting?
Local officials have condemned the harassment and defended the legitimacy of Somali-run child care centers. Federal officials have warned against restricting protected speech. Advocates argue that the fraud narrative distracts from more pressing issues, such as underfunded child care systems and long subsidy waitlists.
How has the Somali community been affected?
The targeting has heightened tensions within Somali communities across the United States, with providers expressing concerns about maintaining safe learning environments for children amid increased scrutiny and harassment.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Viral Video | Nick Shirley’s video alleging fraud in Somali-run child care centers in Minneapolis. |
| Investigations | State officials found no evidence of fraud at the sites visited by Shirley. |
| Harassment Incidents | Reports of uninvited visits, unauthorized filming, and hacked voicemails containing slurs targeting Somali child care providers. |
| Official Responses | Local officials condemned the harassment; federal officials warned against restricting protected speech. |
| Community Impact | Heightened tensions within Somali communities, with concerns about maintaining safe learning environments for children. |
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