Why is Somali Bond Strong in the West but not Back-home

[techsamatar]

It's intriguing how the strength of Somalinimo becomes evident when Somalis are outside Somalia. In such contexts, we often exhibit a sense of unity, akin to being considered the "Jews of Africa." In contrast, back home, internal divisions based on family clans can be so pronounced that assistance may be withheld simply due to differences in sub-clans or relations. However, beyond our native borders, there is a remarkable cohesion among Somalis, fostering a willingness to help any fellow Somali, irrespective of their background. The distinct camaraderie is particularly noticeable in workplaces or social settings, where encounters with fellow Somalis prompt immediate connections and conversations, creating an atmosphere as if we've known each other for a lifetime. This phenomenon appears unique to our community, perhaps owing to the noticeable presence we have in diverse environments.

I believe those residing in their homeland should experience this unity firsthand, venturing beyond their familiar surroundings. Such an exposure might help them realize that in the broader global context, the significance of individual clans diminishes, and what truly matters is the collective identity of being Somali—seen by the world as a unified tribe with a shared language and religion. It's a perspective that could reshape their understanding of interconnectedness and shared identity beyond regional affiliations.

 

[Gojo Satoru]

They're in their home country so no need to stick together

 

[AbrahamFreedom]

There is no Somali bond in the west anymore.

 

[The alchemist]

It's self-preservation in a foreign territory, maximizing the ethnic social safety net by emphasizing proximate relational rules. Immigrants tend to stick to each other as they engage with similar out-group struggles.

Change the background context, and the rules change. This is common sense.

Territory can play a part. For example, a White guy from the Bronx has more in common with the Latinos and Blacks of that area than some guy in Denver.

When you go back home, broad ethnic classifications become weak because it is taken for granted (some hold on to nationalism and other ideological phenomenons that might reinforce ethnic emphasis), in correlation with a stronger priority on inner differences that shape the realities of the ground there.

 

[techsamatar]

There is no Somali bond in the west anymore.

Don't let TikTok and online stuff shape your view of real life. In my experience, the bond among Somalis is pretty strong, maybe even stronger than any other ethnic group. While Jews have a strong connection too, it's often tied to religion and language. For Somalis, it's simpler – just a look can create a special connection. Whether at work or elsewhere, there's this unique sense of being like family, offering advice and support.

At my tech firm, where there are multiple companies in the building, I bumped into an older Somali guy in the restroom. In less than five seconds, we started talking as if we had known each other for ages. From there, we ended up praying together and discussing business. Surprisingly, we didn't even need to exchange names; the connection was just instant.


During my time from primary to high school, I never went to schools where I saw a single Somali. The majority of my life was spent around non-Somalis, and my Somali language skills aren't that great. I'd be considered "whitewashed," but strangely, I still feel a strong inclination to approach and favor someone just because they are Somali. I genuinely believe it's like a biological instinct. If anyone disagrees, I'm curious to hear why.

 

[Dalac Bilaash]

It's intriguing how the strength of Somalinimo becomes evident when Somalis are outside Somalia. In such contexts, we often exhibit a sense of unity, akin to being considered the "Jews of Africa." In contrast, back home, internal divisions based on family clans can be so pronounced that assistance may be withheld simply due to differences in sub-clans or relations. However, beyond our native borders, there is a remarkable cohesion among Somalis, fostering a willingness to help any fellow Somali, irrespective of their background. The distinct camaraderie is particularly noticeable in workplaces or social settings, where encounters with fellow Somalis prompt immediate connections and conversations, creating an atmosphere as if we've known each other for a lifetime. This phenomenon appears unique to our community, perhaps owing to the noticeable presence we have in diverse environments.

I believe those residing in their homeland should experience this unity firsthand, venturing beyond their familiar surroundings. Such an exposure might help them realize that in the broader global context, the significance of individual clans diminishes, and what truly matters is the collective identity of being Somali—seen by the world as a unified tribe with a shared language and religion. It's a perspective that could reshape their understanding of interconnectedness and shared identity beyond regional affiliations.

Because in the qurbo no one will call you qabiil ina hebel they only know you as a Somali