COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus city officials joined Somali community members on Saturday morning to respond to comments made earlier this week by President Donald Trump. Their message was clear: Columbus is for everyone.

During a meeting on Tuesday, Trump referred to Somalians as "garbage" and said that he didn't want them in the United States because “they contribute nothing.”

Local Somali leaders said Trump’s remarks have raised concern among community members. City leaders used the event to reaffirm that Columbus is a safe and welcoming place for all residents.

Mayor Andrew Ginther, members of Columbus City Council and state officials highlighted the positive impact Somalians have had in central Ohio.

Columbus is home to the nation’s second-largest Somali community, behind Minnesota.

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