ThreeSixty's Intermediate Journalism Camp investigates immigration

By Nathan Palm and Nathan Palm, Osseo Senior High School

In the heart of Minneapolis on Riverside Avenue, Somali men gather on the white plastic chairs outside Starbucks.

The strong aroma of freshly made coffee hovers around them. Mohamoud Hassan publicizes his upcoming soccer tournament, in which he’ll be a coach. Abahualah Tama explains the security he feels living here: “Home is where you feel safe. I feel safe in Minnesota.”

By Matthew Trammel, Holy Angels High School

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has done a lot to reach out to immigrants who like to fish and hunt. But some immigrants still find state rules and regulations confusing.

State officials have translated the rules and regulations into different languages, hired Hmong officers and stocked lakes with ample numbers of white bass, a popular catch among Hmong fishermen.

Even with significant efforts to educate immigrants, following state fishing rules and regulations can still be confusing.

By Mariah Davis and Mariah Davis of Arlington High School

A box of red, white and blue cupcakes is set on the table. In broken English and heavy accents the group of Hmong elders at the Hmong American Partnership sing “Happy 73rd Birthday” to Kia Vang.

Since arriving in the U.S in the 1970s the Hmong have attempted to adapt to western culture. They have encouraged the younger generation to learn English, go to college and even run for political office.

But at the same time, some fear that their traditions are fading away with each generation.

By Karen Romero and Karen Romero, El Colegio Charter School

Even though Cynthia Espinoza had lived in Minnesota for eight years, she had to pay out-of-state tuition when she went to Minneapolis Community and Technical College.

That’s because Espinoza, now 32, a political refugee from Guatemala, wasn’t a permanent resident, and didn’t qualify for in-state tuition.

By Karen Romero and Karen Romero, El Colegio Charter School

I think one of the most important reasons for Minnesota’s big racial gap in graduation rates and test scores is the economic situation in many families. Like the majority of the Latino immigrant students I know, I have to work after school to help my family here and in Mexico. Consequently, I don’t have enough time to study or to do my homework in the evening.

By Hibo Ahmed, Ubah Medical Academy, and Mahmood Karimi, Shakopee High School

According to one directory, there are 94 new ethnic media in Minnesota and the Twin Cities: weekly newspapers, monthly magazines, cable newscasts, radio shows and regular newsletters.

The mainstream media are getting the idea. Paul Douglas and his newly created Weather Nation recently hired two bilingual meteorologists. The Star Tribune is seeking new readers and discovering untold stories in the growing ethnic communities.