With one day left until the 2024 US presidential election, Kenyans in America feel anxious about the future. Many worry especially about a possible Donald Trump win. Trump, running against Democrat Kamala Harris, has promised drastic changes. His plans include mass deportations and potential threats to the rights of naturalized citizens. His campaign has raised alarm among immigrants. He also proposes ending family reunification programs, which many Kenyans use to bring loved ones to the US.
Recent events have intensified this anxiety. In Minneapolis, a Kenyan immigrant named Davis Moturi was shot in a racially motivated attack. Moturi had reported his White neighbor’s threats nearly 20 times, but the police did not act. This incident has deepened fears within the Kenyan community. Many believe that a Trump presidency could bring stricter anti-immigrant policies, possibly forcing some to leave the US.
The Minneapolis police faced backlash for their response to Moturi’s case. Police Chief Brian O’Hara defended the delay, citing the risks of using deadly force against the suspect. Meanwhile, Kenyan-American lawyer Henry Ongeri urged Kenyans to stay strong, emphasizing their constitutional protections. Ongeri criticized the police for racial bias, highlighting the risks Black residents face when reporting harassment.
Another Kenyan in the Midwest expressed concerns about growing racial tension tied to the election. They noted that Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan evokes memories of past racial discrimination. Kenyans in the US fear this political climate fuels hostility toward immigrants. They also worry that America’s reputation as a democratic model may suffer lasting damage. No matter the election outcome, many believe healing the nation’s racial divides will take time.
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